TAVA is the place I go to find support, to continue growing as a volunteer engagement professional, and to encourage others who are pursuing a career in this field. TAVA has provided me with leadership opportunities as a volunteer Executive Committee member, with bursaries to further my education, and with chances to facilitate workshops. I have also been able to build friendships that will last a lifetime.

In the past year, what was your most memorable professional project and why?

This past year, I have been focusing on my coaching and leadership skills. I lead a team of dynamic, intelligent and hard working women in the volunteer development department at the YMCA. Together, we support thousands of staff who partner with thousands of volunteers. My colleagues all have goals and ambitions personally and professionally. Being an effective, kind, patient coach and owning that part of my leadership role has been rewarding. I am seeing my team members flourish in their roles and I feel a great sense of pride in their success.

I've been intentional in this work by participating in coaching and leadership training, by seeking out volunteer roles that allow me to use the skills I have learned and by seeking out stories from coaches and leaders that I admire.

In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge to working in Volunteer Engagement?