This week is National Volunteer Week! Holland Bloorview would like to take a moment and thank nearly 900 volunteers who have shared their valuable time and energy to support some 100 client-facing services, research programs and the Bloorview School Authority each year. 

In the hospital’s shared pursuit of the most meaningful and healthy futures for all children, youth and their families, volunteers play a pivotal role in its work here and across Ontario's health-care system.

Volunteers offer companionship and comfort at the bedside, share stories and laughter through reading and play, and support children and teens as they build and rebuild skills along their care journey. They contribute to innovative research in the Bloorview Research Institute, generously share their lived experience, and lend their talents in countless other ways.

Here are a few of the volunteers who support programs from First Robotics and therapeutic recreation to the Bloorview Research Institute’s research labs and more:

“As an autistic person, I know what it feels like to move through schools, health care, workplaces and everyday spaces that were never built with people like me in mind. By volunteering in the Autism Research Centre, I want to help create these spaces I needed growing up. We belong in those spaces, and our voices, perspectives and strengths make them better.” - Izna Mehmood, research volunteer, Bloorview Research Institute

“Having been a client at Holland Bloorview since I was three, becoming a volunteer felt like a full-circle moment. It means so much to now be part of the same community that supported me, and it helps me feel more certain in what I want to continue to do in the future.” – Serena DeVries, youth leader

“When I joined the family leader team, I was truly amazed to see family leaders involved in so many different areas. Seeing their presence everywhere inspired and motivated me to contribute more as a family leader. It reassured me that our role is meaningful that we are not just present, but that our comments, votes, and opinions are genuinely heard and valued.” – Narges Karbasi, family leader

“If I were asked what I love most about volunteering here, it would be seeing clients open up in their own way and discover what they love. There's something almost magical about watching an activity, a toy or a game just click with them. I love that our team and our organization help the kids grow and feel more confident. Honestly that's what makes volunteering so meaningful to me.” – Paco Yung, therapeutic recreation volunteer

“Volunteering at Holland Bloorview has always been the highlight of my week. After 14 years, the experience still gives me so much and is truly uplifting.” – Cynthia Flesher, a Bloorview School Authority volunteer.

Interested in volunteering at Holland Bloorview? Learn more.

By Suelan Toye