National Volunteer Week is April 27 – May 3 and this year we’re celebrating how the volunteers at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital “make waves” when it comes to clients and community. 

“Holland Bloorview has a proud and longstanding tradition of volunteerism at the hospital. Since the 1900s, volunteers have led music lessons, accompanied clients on field trips to local farms, fairs and even visited the Toronto Islands. Some of these volunteer activities remain the same today, while others have evolved over the years,” says Julia Hanigsberg, president & CEO, Holland Bloorview. “From students and community members to former clients and corporate teams, volunteers play a pivotal role in supporting client programs, co-creating transformative research activities and sharing their lived experiences to improve programs and services.” 

Today there are over 1,000 volunteers who help to foster an inclusive environment at Holland Bloorview in programs including therapeutic recreation, robotics and aquatics. Meet five incredible volunteers - both individual and corporate—who are making waves, and driving impact, across the hospital.

“I was first introduced to Holland Bloorview through an event I attended with a team of early childhood educators, where I witnessed the centre’s innovative approach to maximizing individuals’ functional abilities. What brings me the most joy in my role is the opportunity to support the entire family dynamic, not just the individual. Whether it’s offering respite or creating inclusive spaces where children can explore their abilities, the focus is on potential rather than limitations. It’s especially meaningful when even small gestures, like learning a few words in a family's language, have a lasting impact on trust and comfort.” - Samantha Maxwell, volunteer in the Ronald McDonald Playroom and early development and learning (March Break program) 

“I volunteer at Holland Bloorview because the values of kindness, helping others and helping transform lives aligns with my personal values. The impact the hospital has on kids and families as a result of their incredible staff and other resources makes it such an honour to be connected with this organization. I love seeing the smiles and joy of each child and seeing the progression of a child whether it’s at school or in the pool. It’s a beautiful feeling! I hope I have a positive impact and I certainly see lots of smiles and playful activity when I volunteer, which I'll take as positive feedback!” - Scott Fraser, volunteer in the recreational swim, aquatics/therapeutic recreation programs and Bloorview School Authority

“I wanted to contribute to a meaningful environment where I could support others while also learning from them. Holland Bloorview stood out as a place where kindness, growth, and impact come together, making it the perfect place to volunteer. The most rewarding moments came from the small but meaningful interactions—seeing a child smile, sharing a laugh, or witnessing a moment of progress. These experiences reminded me how powerful simple human connections can be. Sometimes, just being present, offering support, and creating a positive space can make a real difference.” – Ela Bayik, therapeutic recreation volunteer (Heroes Circle Martial Arts and robotics programs)

“Volunteering as a group at Holland Bloorview is about coming together to create moments of joy and connection for kids who may be navigating challenges every day. During a recent corporate volunteering event at the hospital, the gymnasium was transformed into an exciting space where kids could immerse themselves in space-inspired activities. BMO employees helped bring activities to life and let kids explore, play, and experience the wonder of space. No matter their circumstances - their enthusiasm, laughter and resilience filled the room, showing just how powerful moments of fun, play and connection can be. This activity not only bought joy to kids but to us as well. - Vitoria Mirandra, senior manager, New Product Development & Embedded Benefits Strategy – North American Retail Payments, BMO Financial Group

“As a children’s entertainment company, Spin Master finds special meaning volunteering at Holland Bloorview with, and for, kids. Not only is it a chance to bring our team members together to benefit children, seeing smiles on kids’ faces helps to provide new enthusiasm for the work that we do. We recently volunteered to put on a field trip to space for the kids attending the Bloorview School Authority. We helped the kids explore stations throughout the event that mimicked space exploration, providing a cool opportunity to learn through play. Spin Master strives to provide magical play experiences for children and their families. Volunteering at Holland Bloorview gives us a chance to do just that, witnessing the incredible impact that play has on kids.”- Nicole McGinn, manager, Corporate Social Responsibility Programs, Spin Master