Volunteer Spotlight - Meet Maria
December 5 is International Volunteer Day! Join us in celebrating and thanking all the volunteers who make a meaningful impact in our communities. At Green Acres Foundation, we are grateful to everyone who helps enrich the lives of our residents through activities such as bus trips, bingo, movie nights, and so much more! To discuss volunteer opportunities, please e-mail housingservicesmgr@greenacres.ab.ca or call 403-328-1155. To register as a volunteer, apply on the Volunteer Lethbridge website.
This year we are featuring one of our amazing volunteers, Maria, who has volunteered at one of our communities for 7 months. Here’s what she had to say about her rewarding experience volunteering at Green Acres Foundation.
What Inspired you to volunteer at one of our senior communities?
“Before moving to Canada, I worked in the healthcare industry. During my college years, we visited an elderly care facility as part of our curriculum, and I was deeply moved by how the residents spent their time there. We bonded with them, assisted with meals, engaged in conversations, and listened to their stories. That experience left a lasting impact on me, and I promised myself that if I were given the opportunity to give back to the community or support seniors in a home-care setting, I would volunteer wholeheartedly.
In the Philippines, I wasn’t able to pursue volunteer work because the facility was far from where I lived, and I had difficulty managing the time and costs while also working full-time. However, when I learned about this volunteer opportunity here in Canada, I did not hesitate to sign up.”
What are the tasks that you do when you volunteer?
“As a volunteer, I usually start from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. I spend time visiting residents in their rooms, chatting with them, and engaging in activities such as arts and crafts, hand massages, and painting their nails. During lunchtime, I assist in serving meals or wherever help is needed. We also enjoy dancing and singing with the residents, and I support activities led by Megan, our activity coordinator. When there is an opportunity to go outside, we sometimes take bike rides, as we did last summer.”
What do you enjoy most about volunteering with seniors?
“What I enjoy most about volunteering with our senior residents is the opportunity to spend meaningful time with them and learn from their experiences. I deeply appreciate all that they have done for their families and communities, and it is inspiring to witness their strength and wisdom. I also enjoy sharing these experiences with my son when he joins me to help entertain the residents. One of my favorite activities is going on bike rides with the residents, as they often show me the places where they used to live.
Every resident has their own story, but what I can share is how meaningful the interactions are. They may forget certain moments, but their hearts never do. No amount of money can compare to the feeling of being appreciated for the small things I do. I truly love hearing them say they enjoyed our time together, and their warm hugs mean so much to me.”
Why do you think volunteering is important?
“I believe volunteering is important because it allows us to give back to the community in meaningful ways, especially to our senior residents who have contributed so much throughout their lives. Their experiences have built the families, communities, and comforts we enjoy today, and spending time with them is a small way to honour that.
It is also personally fulfilling. Volunteering gives me a sense of purpose and joy, and it serves as a healthy outlet where I can relax, connect with others, and do something meaningful. These moments remind me that kindness, presence, and compassion matter.”