About Volunteer Lethbridge

Connecting, Supporting, Capacity Building

Volunteer Lethbridge exists as a support network for both volunteers and non-profit organizations to help them build capacity and thrive. Our aim is to safely provide opportunities for people to contribute to their community, and to offer continued aid and guidance to the change-makers.

We accomplish this through (1) connecting volunteers with ideal volunteer opportunities, and (2) giving non-profit organizations the help they need to run effectively.

Our Vision

Volunteer Lethbridge strengthens and sustains a healthy, vibrant community through support and advancement of volunteer excellence.

Our Mission

Volunteer Lethbridge builds connections and empowers individuals and organizations to enhance volunteerism and grow volunteer capacity.

Our Guiding Principles

Volunteer Lethbridge affirms that volunteerism is an essential and highly-regarded community value and strives to maintain and enhance its relevance in our community.

Make sure our programs, policies and principles reflect and support the rich diversity of the community we serve
Strive for excellence and professionalism in program delivery
Ensure our Board of Directors will safeguard its fiduciary responsibility to operate in an ethical, cost effective, and professional manner

Stay open, accessible and responsive to the community and is self-critical and innovative in developing services
Advocate for volunteers and volunteerism
Believe that partnerships with community stakeholders are key to advancing our mission

The History Of Volunteer Lethbridge

The roots of Volunteer Lethbridge go back to 1981 and we have had a Volunteer Centre in Lethbridge continuously ever since. In 1981, the YWCA started the Lethbridge Volunteer Bureau as a three-year federally funded project under what eventually became Human Resources & Skills Development Canada. At the end of the funding in 1984, the YWCA facilitated the transformation of the project to the independent not-for-profit status that we currently maintain.

The first home of the Lethbridge Volunteer Bureau was in the McFarland Building, where the YWCA administration and program staff resided during the construction of their new facility at 604 8th Street S. The Volunteer Bureau moved, with the YWCA, into the new building in 1983 and lived there until it became independent, at which time it moved into a north side location with the Lethbridge Shopper. Renamed the Community Volunteer Centre in the late eighties, the organization moved to the Bill Kergan Centre. In 2000 the organization was renamed Volunteer Lethbridge and in 2011 it moved to Deveta Place. A partnership struck with the University of Lethbridge saw another move in November 2013 to 324-5 Street South, Dr. Foster James Penny Building.

Over the years Volunteer Lethbridge has established a strong reputation as a leader in the voluntary and non-profit sector. Our services have grown and evolved to meet the needs of our member organizations and individual volunteers in the community. Our core funding comes from the Provincial Government, including FCSS (Family & Community Support Services) administered through the City of Lethbridge, and from the Enhanced Capacity Advancement Program. We supplement our funding base with grants and fundraising projects. Volunteer Lethbridge has a strong partnership with the City of Lethbridge in order to provide support to the Voluntary Sector in our community.

Our Team

Executive Director

Amanda Jensen

Get To Know Amanda

“We are a primary capacity builder for our region.”

Amanda oversees all aspects of Volunteer Lethbridge, from community development to connecting and supporting volunteers and non-profits. Her devotion for bringing people together inspires every aspect of her work, and her wish is for everyone who connects with Volunteer Lethbridge to have the greatest experience possible.

For the majority of her career, Amanda has worked in the non-profit sector, including, Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, Community Futures, and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Amanda holds an M.A. from the University of Guelph in Leadership, as well as a Business Management Degree from the University of Lethbridge. She is currently an instructor in the non-profit Management Program at Mount Royal University.

Amanda can be reached at:
amanda.jensen@volunteerlethbridge.com

Evaluation Manager

Chelsea Eastman

Get To Know Chelsea

“On Fridays, I can almost always say, ‘Well I didn't think I would be doing that this week!’”

Chelsea is all about people! She’s the hub of all things volunteer-related, and regularly meets with individuals, groups, and businesses to help match them with positive, meaningful volunteer opportunities in the city. She’s been with Volunteer Lethbridge for three years connecting with the community through engagement events. She’s also the coordinator of the Keep In Touch volunteer program. and is also a key planner and organizer of major community events.

Chelsea’s positive, can-do attitude is contagious with everyone who meets her, and her willingness to tackle any problem is extremely valuable. Her flexibility and adaptability serve her well in her very dynamic role at Volunteer Lethbridge.

Chelsea holds a B.A. in General Social Science from the University of Lethbridge, and has extensive training in working with people, from youth asset-building to creative mental health therapies and trauma counselling.

Chelsea can be reached at:
communications@volunteerlethbridge.com

Office Manager

Shelley Ducheminsky

Get To Know Shelley

“Volunteer Lethbridge gets me most excited about creating opportunity! Not only for me, but for the entire community.”

Our veritable numbers wizard, Shelley collects, monitors and records financial information for Volunteer Lethbridge. She keeps us accountable by ensuring we are utilizing our financial resources in accordance to financial controls, budget, terms of grants and funding, and ultimately, maintaining compliance with statutory requirements. Shelley is also responsible for booking meeting rooms, and fostering our relationship with the University of Lethbridge.

Shelley began her journey with Volunteer Lethbridge seven years ago as a volunteer herself, filling in as a receptionist. Her open-mindedness to opportunity and change, as well as her willingness to help out in any area turned her volunteer position into a full-time gig, which eventually transitioned into her current position. She holds a diploma in Office Administration, and is trained as a Payroll Compliance Practitioner.

Shelley can be reached at:
office@volunteerlethbridge.com

Office Coordinator

Camila Dias

Get To Know Camila

Camila first started with Volunteer Lethbridge during Fall 2020 as the Membership Support Assistant and in 2021 was hired for the position of Office Coordinator, working on administrative tasks as well as engaging with technology platforms used by VL for the daily tasks.

She loves being part of the VL family and is always excited and full of energy in everything she does. Camila is extremely organized, has great communication skills, problem solving and is always there to support any staff, member or volunteer.

She is originally from Brazil and came to Lethbridge to pursue her second bachelor degree in French-Spanish in which she just graduated this Spring 2021.

Camila has been volunteering in her hometown back in Brazil since she can remember, and the same happened as soon as she moved to Lethbridge. She volunteers in big and small events, whenever needed in her community and that is how she became involved with Volunteer Lethbridge. She volunteered for casinos, fundraising, being a photographer, writing Christmas cards for the community, mentor for the International Center at U of L, and so much more.

Membership Manager

Nicole Bosh

Get To Know Nicole

WELCOME NICOLE BOSH

Nicole’s enthusiasm shines through in everything she does.

She is excited to be a part of Volunteer Lethbridge, and working with member agencies as the Membership Manager.

Nicole has worked in the non-profit sector for more than 20 years, and has been an active volunteer the majority of her life. She believes that volunteerism is an essential part of our community.

Nicole holds a B.A. in History from the University of Alberta - Augustana Campus, and a diploma in Print Journalism from Lethbridge College.

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much” ― Helen Keller

Volunteer Coordinator

Michelle McCann

Get To Know Michelle

Michelle is excited to share her knowledge and experience from past roles in international student homestay coordinating, volunteer coordinating, staffing/recruitment and marketing, in the growth of volunteer involvement in our community. As Volunteer Coordinator, she feels fortunate to work with such a devoted group of individuals who support Volunteer Lethbridge in their quest to maintain a strong and connected community.

Michelle's adventurous spirit has led her to explore Canada and parts of North America. During her non-work days, she can be found enjoying a long walk with her dogs, reading a great historical fiction novel, taking in local attractions, hosting an international student or just hanging out with family and friends.

Junior Volunteer Coordinator

Jaixann Persigas

Get To Know Jaixann

My name is Jaixann (pronounced [ ʤɛ́jksan ] or JAYK-san), and I just graduated from the University of Lethbridge last June 2023! I graduated with a Bachelor of Science majoring in Neuroscience. I am also an active volunteer at Chinook Regional Hospital since 2019. My family and I migrated here to Canada from the Philippines in 2016, and we have been living here in Lethbridge since then. My hobbies are usually indoor activities like baking and gaming, but I also like photography. In addition, I love animals, especially those that are too adorable to ignore (otters, capybaras, dogs, cats, you name it!).

My role in this team is the Junior Volunteer Coordinator, and I look forward to sharing my thoughts and ideas with the team and the community and learning more (maybe surprising) things about the Lethbridge community!

UVOLUNTEER Coordinator

Noah Bay

Get To Know Noah

I'm an avid outdoors enthusiast who thrives on the beauty of nature, whether it's hiking in the woods or playing hockey on a frozen pond. When I'm not out and about, I'm exploring the cosmos through my fascination with space or diving into the virtual worlds of video games. My passion for continuous learning leads me to educational podcasts that expand my horizons.

At home, I share my space with Tigger, my beloved feline companion. My deep-seated passion for childcare, leadership, and health and safety has inspired my academic journey at the University of Lethbridge, where I'm studying Human Resources and Labor Relations. I'm thrilled to be part of the dynamic team at Volunteer Lethbridge, where I can channel my energy into community engagement and making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Board of Directors 2023 - 2024

President

David Reeve

Get To Know David

DIRECTOR

Stephan Onyango

Get To Know Stephen

Stephen Onyango is the owner of Legend production and films. Stephen went to school at the University of Multimedia in Kenya then came to Canada to further his education and graduated from the New Media Program at The University of Lethbridge.

Stephen grew up in a family of social workers so he has always done things in the community to help the less fortunate and always make the world a better place. He says " I have operated Legend productions for the past 7 years and I have come too really like this community and is enjoying running a business here".

Treasurer

Brian Wichers

Get To Know Brian

Brian has been involved in hospitality for over 40 years and had extensive experience in the Restaurant, Lounge, Banquet, Catering and Quick Service Restaurant industry. From early on he has believed that one needs to give back to the community that supports them; a value passed on by his Grandfather and parents.

Throughout his life, Brian has sat on several boards. He spent 6 years on the Chinook Country Tourist Association board as Vice-President and president. As well as Chinook Country Tourist Association on several boards including: County of Lethbridge Advisory Board, Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce, Airport of Entry Task Force through the Chamber of Commerce, and the Lethbridge Convention & Visitors Bureau for which he was a founding Director. He also represented the Alberta South Tourism Destination Region as both Vice-Chair and Chair.

Following in his Father’s footsteps, he sat on the board for the United Way of South West Alberta for 8 years. A proud supporter of local hockey, Brian was also part of the Lethbridge Hurricanes board for 9 years. Brian was a committee member for the Alberta Economic & Development Authority Tourism Committee for 2 year, and he was serving as the Food Services Coordinator for the Southern Alberta Summer Games committee. Brian has proudly sat on the Lethbridge College Culinary Advisory Committee and is an active member of the Lethbridge College Wine Auction Committee in which for the past 6 years he is chair.

In addition to the formal positions on boards and committees, Brian has volunteered for the Kiwanis Music Festival for years. For 6 years co-chairing a volunteer committee coordinating the John Wichers Memorial Golf Classic in support of the United Way of South West Alberta and also an active supporter of the Lethbridge Therapeutic Riding Association.

Brian believes that Volunteer Lethbridge is a vital part of our community and the volunteers required for organizations and events is integral for their successes.

DIRECTOR

Lori Harasem

Get To Know Lori

Lori Harasem is passionate about volunteering. Having volunteered for dozens of local organizations in roles ranging from event day to governance roles, she understands the important role volunteers play in making our community welcoming, inclusive, and diverse, which she truly values.

She has worked as a volunteer coordinator in the not-for-profit sector, as well as an event and fund development specialist. She then spent a decade working in municipal government supporting not-for-profits with their own fund development, oversaw most of the City of Lethbridge not for profit grants, and sat (and still does) on many grant review committees. She also supported groups with marketing, volunteer recruitment and retention support, and sustainability concerns.

She works at Lethbridge College as the Health Promotion Coordinator, where she ensures that the campus community has access to support and resources for mental, physical, and social well-being, which includes connection to many local not-for-profits and the greater Lethbridge community.

Secretary

George Kuhl

Get To Know George

George Kuhl is a recent addition to the Volunteer Lethbridge Board. He is a graduate of the University of Lethbridge. He was a community planner with the Oldman River Regional Planning Commission, the Town of Taber and the City of Lethbridge in over 4 decades of public service, as well as currently enjoying his third year of retirement from the City of Lethbridge where he had most recently been the Downtown Revitalization Manager.

George has a record of volunteer involvement dating back to the mid-1970’s including terms on the University of Lethbridge Alumni Association, the Senate and the Board of Governors. He was involved with numerous youth, sports and school organizations as his children grew up.

During his career, he was involved at the board level of his professional association, the Canadian Institute of Planners. While at the City of Lethbridge, George served on the Civic Administrative Association including 3 years as Chair. In an occupational capacity at the City, George liaised with several community volunteer entities such as the Public Art Committee, CMARD (Canadian Municipalities Against Racism and
Discrimination) and the Reconciliation Lethbridge Advisory Committee.

Currently George is a board member of the Lethbridge Historical Society and serves as its representative to the Historic Places Advisory Committee of which he is the Chair. George is currently a member of the Board of Big Brothers Big Sisters Lethbridge and Chair of its Building Committee.

We are in the midst of the most challenging times most of us have ever had to endure.
George is a strong advocate of volunteerism and what that means in strengthening
community institutions. George is looking forward to his role with Volunteer Lethbridge as we emerge from the Covid pandemic, cope with its aftermath and build a stronger
community.

George is an avid cyclist and photographer with a life-long interest in the dynamics of city centres. He has spent significant amounts of time travelling and “soaking-up” the unique qualities of such places.

DIRECTOR

Graeme Dearden

Get To Know Graeme

Graeme Dearden is an Albertan artist and nonprofit worker based in Edmonton. Graeme currently works for Volunteer Alberta as Manager of Learning and Resources, where they manage programs focused on research and resource development related to volunteerism and civic engagement. In their off-time, Graeme practices as an artist, creating drawings and screen-prints.

Graeme spends their off-time cooking, baking, listening to podcasts, finding new music to listen to, and rewatching old episodes of Deep Space Nine with their partner.

DIRECTOR

Richard Low

Get To Know Richard

DIRECTOR

Nicholas Fernandes

Get To Know Nicholas

A little bit about me:
I have a double major pre-law bachelor's degree in public policy and government, I am currently working on getting a post-graduate degree in computer science. I also run two businesses based in the US. One is in the real estate space called Bright Bloom Real Estate and the other is in women's health called Memmzy.

I have always given back to the community, whether it be back home in Dubai, or here in Lethbridge, or even during my years in Boston. I have volunteered with over 50 different organizations over the years, and sitting on the board lets me expand my impact in the community and help more people.

I have also mentored other budding entrepreneurs through the Elevate mentorship program by Chronically Capable, a platform that connects people with chronic illnesses and disabilities to inclusive employers.

We are looking for Board Members

Our Board of Directors is elected from the membership and the community. The Board consists of no less than seven and no more than twelve Directors. The Board is charged with governance of the Association, on behalf of the membership. Please email Board@volunteerlethbridge.com for more information.

Directors Terms

Board terms run for three years. The term begins at the Director’s election to the Board at an Annual General Meeting. Directors may be elected for two consecutive terms. Sometimes Directors join the Board between Annual General Meetings and are appointed as interim Directors until the next Annual General Meeting.

Board Meetings

Regular Board meetings are held monthly at 12:00 pm. Meetings usually adjourn by 2:00pm.

Connecting, Supporting, Capacity Building

Our Vision

Our Mission

Our Guiding Principles

The History Of Volunteer Lethbridge

Our Team

Executive Director

Amanda Jensen

Evaluation Manager

Chelsea Eastman

Office Manager

Shelley Ducheminsky

Office Coordinator

Camila Dias

Membership Manager

Nicole Bosh

Volunteer Coordinator

Michelle McCann

Junior Volunteer Coordinator

Jaixann Persigas

UVOLUNTEER Coordinator

Noah Bay

Board of Directors 2023 - 2024

President

David Reeve

DIRECTOR

Stephan Onyango

Treasurer

Brian Wichers

DIRECTOR

Lori Harasem

Secretary

George Kuhl

DIRECTOR

Graeme Dearden

DIRECTOR

Richard Low

DIRECTOR

Nicholas Fernandes

We are looking for Board Members

Directors Terms

Board Meetings

@VolunteerLethbridge

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