"I think one of the biggest challenges of working in volunteer engagement is a lack of formal leadership opportunities and career growth. As volunteer professionals, we have so much on-the-ground experience that teaches lessons that can be applied well beyond volunteer management – into areas like HR, donor relations, training and organizational development, but these areas often feel out of reach. That is why opportunities like joining the TAVA Executive are so important: it’s an opportunity to shape the scope of an organization, our mission and values. Volunteering on the TAVA Executive fills in that gap for me!”

AS SOMEONE WORKING IN VOLUNTEER ENGAGEMENT, HOW DOES TAVA HELP YOU?

I love TAVA’s camaraderie and informality. Our members work across different sectors, but we share such common experiences. TAVA meetings are a great place to come together socially; to laugh, to commiserate, and to grow. I’m always learning from members - whether it’s looking to our colleagues who have won innovation awards, or to members who generously share training & orientation resources, practical tips and tricks, and lessons learned. Most of all, I find TAVA is a really positive group, where we can share successes, and cheer folks on (I’m not the Awards and Bursary Chair for nothing!)

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO EXPLORE/ ENTER VOLUNTEER ENGAGEMENT AS A PROFESSION?

I’ve always worked in art museums and galleries; being immersed in an art environment is most important to me. I quickly realized I wanted to work more with people than with objects, so I focused on Education and Public Programs. In most museum environments, this kind of work is largely supported by volunteers, so I learned on-the- job how to work with volunteers and I’ve been building my tool-kit ever since. I sort of “fell into” the profession, but it’s a really natural fit for me and I’m grateful every day.   

Looking back, my family has always shown me the value of volunteering. Growing up, my mum ran a Seniors Centre in town that coordinated Meals on Wheels and other activities supported by volunteers. My dad ran a Junior Achievement chapter in our basement.  I’ve also volunteered a lot in Leadership roles. When I lived in Winnipeg, I served on the Boards of several artist-run centres.  I love being a part of a volunteer collective where we support one another through big projects: updating bylaws, launching successful fundraisers, and supporting artists, etc. What a privilege!

WORKING IN VOLUNTEER ENGAGEMENT, IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES?

I think one of the biggest challenges of working in volunteer engagement is a lack of formal leadership opportunities and career growth. As volunteer professionals, we have so much on-the-ground experience that teaches lessons that can be applied well beyond volunteer management – into areas like HR, donor relations, training and organizational development, but these areas often feel out of reach. That is why opportunities like joining the TAVA Executive are so important: it’s an opportunity to shape the scope of an organization, our mission and values. Volunteering on the TAVA Executive fills in that gap for me!

WHEN YOU'RE NOT WORKING, HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR TIME?

I am an artist and crafter. When I’m not working, I’m making something! My current obsession is printmaking. I can’t think of anything else when I’m printing, so it’s like mediation for me. I started with cards, but now I’m printing on lampshades and fabric. I dream of making a full set of curtains. One day!