LIFT Spotlight
LIFT takes pride in the efforts of all the students that volunteer in the London and Middlesex community. As such, LIFT would like to recognize students that have committed a significant amount of their time in supporting the community.
What motivated you to volunteer with the Alzheimer's Society, and what has been the most meaningful part of your experience?
I was first interested in volunteering with the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners (AlzSWP) because my grandfather is currently living with dementia and i was eager to learn more about dementia and I was eager to learn more about dementia and the diseases that cause it. After researching the organization, I realized that through volunteering, I would be able [to] directly help and interact with people living with dementia and this interested me. The most meaningful part of my experience was when I was able to have conversations with persons one-on-one, allowing them to freely express themselves and tell their stories. Seeing them gradually open up more each week as they grew more comfortable was incredible. I feel honoured to have had the opportunity to provide a listening ear when it was needed and that I was able to meet and learn from such wonderful people.
What has been your favourite memory or moment while volunteering?
Once, when we played a game of seated volleyball during our physical activity time, the game started slowly, but eventually, all the clients began getting really into it and the action suddenly ramped up. Witnessing this group that was previously so quiet and shy laughing together and having such a fun time was my favourite memory. It was wonderful to see that the group was finally comfortable enough to enjoy themselves together.
"This experience allowed me to support and engage with a part of the community that is often times excluded and stigmatized."
How did you first hear about LIFT, and how has it helped you get involved in the community?
I first heard about LIFT, which was called MaSCOt at the time, when it was promoted at the beginning of a few of my classes. Some representatives from the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry came in to tell us about the program and what it involved for a few minutes at the start of class. Around the same time, the department also sent out informative emails about the program. Through LIFT, I was able to access plenty of volunteer opportunities at organizations in community that I was not previously aware of. This is where I first heard about the Alzheimer Society, and upon further research into the organization, I decided that I would love to get involved in the programs they offered for people living with dementia. This experience allowed me to support and engage with a part of the community that is often times excluded and stigmatized. From my time at AlzSWP, I have learning so much about Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, and I have gained a greater awareness and understanding of those affected in the community.
Do you have any advice for other students looking to get started with volunteering?
I would strongly suggest that students get involved with the LIFT program to get started with volunteering. LIFT is a wonderful platform that provides access to a plethora of volunteer opportunities that you may not have even been aware of. There are so many organizations that would benefit greatly from volunteer contribution and there are some that rely on volunteers to make their impact in the community. It may seem daunting at first, but volunteering is is one of the best ways to give back to the community and there is such a wide range of opporunities where everyone can make an impact of their own. No matter how big or small you may think your contribution is, just know it matters more than you may ever know.
Are you hoping to be featured as the next Student Spotlight? Make sure you are logging your hours on the Galaxy portal and keeping an eye out for volunteer opportunities - you could be the next student to be featured!
