This past year, we benefited from over 480 volunteers across our programs, events, and in our office.
April 19-25 is National Volunteer Week in Canada. And this week, we want to celebrate and spotlight just a few of the incredible individuals who so passionately give their time.
Meet Andrea!
This vibrant and passionate volunteer has been supporting our Movement to Music program with the Arts Umbrella since this past October. After supporting our fall and winter seasons, she eagerly signed up for our spring season, which started just this past week.
We connected with her before the first session to see what motivated her to give back!
What inspired you to volunteer with CAN?
I’ve always wanted to work with kids, but I couldn’t find the right place to volunteer. Last summer, I was on the transit and saw a group of kids with volunteers wearing CAN shirts. I offered my seat to one of the kids, noticed the name, and later looked it up. The moment I learned about CAN, I just knew—this is exactly what I had been looking for. It felt like something I was meant to do.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
I love spending time with the kids, especially during dance classes. Seeing them walk in excited, trying different dance moves, and sharing stories really makes my day. In dance class, they look at you for the next step, and in that moment, you realize they rely on you. It makes me want to create a fun and safe space where they can truly enjoy themselves.
Hearing the kids share their day, laugh, and they all love freeze dance and they enjoyed it. Seeing them have so much fun and feel happy in that moment is the best feeling.
View this post on Instagram
What’s one of your favourite memories volunteering so far?
After a few dance classes, one of the kids who didn’t participate much told me that he now looks forward to coming to dance class. That moment meant so much to me and made me realize the impact we can have, even in small ways.
What advice would you give to someone interested in volunteering?
If you already joined CAN, it means you are already a part of the team. So when you’re nervous reach out to the supervisor or anyone in the team. They will help you for sure.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions or reach out to the team. Everyone at CAN is so supportive and kind. It’s truly a team effort, and being surrounded by such amazing people makes the experience even better.
Through volunteering, I’ve realized I’m becoming a better and more responsible person every day. I’ve grown more patient, more respectful, and more confident in working with others. Being part of the kids’ lives, even in a small way, brings me so much happiness.
We’re so grateful to have so many volunteers who share Andrea’s passion!
Join our team in green! Visit canucksautism.ca/volunteer.
More volunteer stories