About Volunteer Lethbridge

We accomplish this by

connecting volunteers with ideal volunteer opportunities so they can make an impact

supporting non-profit organizations with expertise, experience and advocacy

Our volunteers

1,900+

Registered volunteers

1,250

Active volunteers

Our 2023

915

Volunteers referred

726

Volunteer applications

Our 5 pillars

Advocacy

We pave the way for volunteers and organizations by advocating for their needs in the halls of power.

Convening

We bring together various stakeholders in the community so they can make a bigger impact.

Volunteer Management

We help organizations find the help they need to make a change in their community.

Internal Operational Excellence

We strive to operate to the best of our ability so our partners can do the same.

Capacity Building

We build up member organizations so they can have a bigger impact on our community.

Find a volunteer opportunity

Become a member

Our Mission

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

Our Vision

We pave the way for volunteers and organizations by advocating for their needs in the halls of power.

Our Team

Executive Director

Amanda Jensen

Get To Know Amanda

Beginning in southern Saskatchewan… fast forward ten years and meet the Amanda that serves as the Executive Director for Volunteer Lethbridge! To get more honest, Amanda has been serving the nonprofit sector, largely in Southern Alberta for the past 25 years.

Amanda began at Volunteer Lethbridge at the start of the pandemic- a lone tumbleweed for a couple of years in the spacious and beautiful U of L Penny Building, virtually supported by amazing volunteer and team colleagues. Amanda is now gratefully getting to know what its like to work for a volunteer centre under more normal circumstances, though certainly no factor of the work has remained unaffected.

Amanda has worked for many nonprofit organizations in Lethbridge & area, including the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, Community Futures Lethbridge Region, the Town of Magrath, the University of Lethbridge Faculty Association, and serving the provincial Family & Community Support Services grant for the City of Lethbridge. Amanda has also been a prolific federal and provincial political volunteer, and now, like many Canadians, enjoys getting out for inspiring episodic volunteer opportunities.

Amanda describes Volunteer Lethbridge as her most fond employer to date. The board and staff exemplify the true spirit of community support; she hopes that anyone that connects with Volunteer Lethbridge feels this spirit of care and inclusion. She’s equally proud, though, of what a volunteer centre brings to its community. In 2023, the organization directly or indirectly supported 57% of Lethbridge residents that volunteered- that’s more than 60,000 volunteers! They contributed an average of an astounding 91 hours each, and that equates to a $134M economic impact to Lethbridge and area. Wow. Humbling.

Amanda holds a B. Mgt from the incredible U of L, and a M.A in Organizational Leadership from the University of Guelph- an experience she shares with the current Board Chair David Reeve. Amanda was also the recipient of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2023. With lots of family support, she specifically has four amazing children (two are teenagers- she’s holding her hat) and has the best friend in the world with her Golden Doodle Rolo.

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

MEMBERSHIP MANAGER

Nicole Bosh

Get To Know Nicole

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

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 at Volunteer Lethbridge is the 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!

Operational and human resources 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.

Summer Team

Administrative Assistant

Rori Ryan

Get To Know Rori

Rori is a fourth year Business Administration student at Thompson Rivers University. Her focus is in accounting but enjoys all aspects of business. She hopes to start her journey to become a CPA after graduation.

When Rori is not nose deep in textbooks, she enjoys the outdoors and any sort of physical activity. She mainly enjoys keeping herself busy by learning new hobbies and spending time with family and friends.

Rori’s role here at Volunteer Lethbridge is the Administrative Assistant. She is excited for this new opportunity here to learn and gain experience to help achieve her goals for the future. She was born and raised here in Lethbridge and wants to help increase the sense of community the city has.

YQL Neighbourhood Developer

Raiyana Shams

Get To Know Raiyana

Raiyana Shams is super excited to be working with Volunteer Lethbridge this summer in the YQL Neighborhoods role! She lived in Lethbridge from when she was a child just until last fall, when she moved to Calgary to pursue the Bachelor of Design in City Innovation at the University of Calgary. Community building is incredibly important to her and she cannot wait to help her hometown enhance its collective identity. She has extensive work, leadership, and volunteer experience in both Lethbridge and Calgary, as she hopes to one day direct an organization that advocates for sustainable, accessible, and equitable cities. Raiyana aims to use her empathetic leadership skills to help VL and YQL Neighborhoods achieve their goals of creating a strong and connected community within Lethbridge. When she's not volunteering or busy with her studies, Raiyana enjoys spending time with her family and friends, exploring nature, finding new restaurants, and travelling. She loves meeting new people and making friends, and is always happy to chat!

Municipal Advocate

Ludwig Moelbert

Get To Know Ludwig

Ludwig is a vibrant and passionate University of Lethbridge student who is dedicating his summer semester to serving as the Municipal Policy Advocate for Volunteer Lethbridge. In this role, he is committed to fostering strong relationships with municipal councilors and employees, while diligently considering the diverse wants and needs of all non-profit organizations in Lethbridge.

With a deep-rooted passion for social justice, Ludwig approaches his work with a fervent desire to affect positive change within the local community. His larger-than-life personality is infectious, and his genuine enthusiasm for making a difference is truly inspiring. Those who have the opportunity to collaborate with Ludwig can expect an engaging and fantastic experience, fueled by his unwavering commitment to the cause.

Membership Assistant

Tom Denness

Get To Know Tom

Hi, My name is Tom Denness and I am the new Membership Assistant here at Volunteer Lethbridge! I am currently pursuing a combined degree in Kinesiology and Education, as well as participating on the Men's Soccer team at the University of Lethbridge. Aside from playing soccer, I enjoy filling my time with volunteer work (Lethbridge Foodbank, Big Brothers & Big Sisters, and Sage Clan) and reading. While I have spent the majority of my life in Canada, a fun fact about me is that I have lived in four countries: England, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Canada. As someone who has a passion for helping people and volunteering, I am excited to have the opportunity to work with Volunteer Lethbridge and help connect people with organizations.

Fund Development Coordinator

Megan Gray

Get To Know Megan

My name is Megan, and I am working for Volunteer Lethbridge as their summer student in the Fund Development Coordinator role!

I am currently in my 4th year of Marketing at the U of L, aside from going to school and working I enjoy being outside either playing slowpitch or volleyball with my friends and family.

A little fun fact about me is that this is the third nonprofit organization in Lethbridge I have worked for as a funding coordinator as I have been in school. Within these positions, I have grown as a student and as an employee working with organizations that make a difference in the Lethbridge community.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Support

Tobore Okome

Get To Know Tobore

My name is Tobore Okome, and I am the new EDI support worker at Volunteer Lethbridge! I am currently pursuing a Master's in Women and Gender studies, as well as participating on the Pronghorn Women's basketball team. My hobbies include cooking, baking, hiking, and hanging out with my friends. Although I have spent most of my life in Canada, I was born in Nigeria. An interesting fact about me is that I can do the splits!

As someone who is passionate about creating and maintaining equality, I look forward to my contributions in this matter with volunteer Lethbridge.

Board of Directors 2024 - 2025

President

David Reeve

Get To Know David

David Reeve has had the opportunity to provide leadership development for many organizations over the past 20 years. These organizations include Tempur Canada and London Health Sciences Centre. Currently he is a regional manager for a worldwide non-profit organization that assists individuals become self-reliant. His background includes hands on experience in both operational and human resources management, in the public and private sectors. He holds a Master’s in Leadership.

Secretary

Moya Johnson

Get To Know Moya

Moya Johnson recently migrated to Lethbridge from Jamaica with her loving husband and children. She is currently pursuing a second Masters of Arts in Cultural, Social and Political Thought Program at the University of Lethbridge. Her thesis research focuses on craft production among persons living with disabilities in the Mustard Seed Community. Moya is an ongoing volunteer at the U of L and is a recent Board of Director at the Southern Alberta Art Gallery.

Currently holding an MA in Heritage Studies from the University of West Indies, Mona; as an educator at the secondary and post-secondary levels in the Humanities and Social Sciences, she thrives on public service by helping others achieve independent living and belonging. Additionally she has over 20 years experience in the handicraft industry, specializing in souvenirs and corporate gift items comprising of pottery, leather craft and fashion jewelry. This has afforded her the opportunity to incorporate her artistic and event planning skills with teaching by conducting craft workshops, coordinating heritage celebrations and organizing exhibits for all age groups.

With a heart of volunteerism, Moya is passionate about family, arts and culture, community engagement, as well as serving vulnerable and marginalized groups in society. She enjoys cooking, dancing and long walks with her pet Shih Poo, Theodore. However anyone that knows her well, knows that Moya is a Trekkie at heart who loves to binge watch any of the 12 series in the Star Trek franchise on lazy evenings.

VICE PRESIDENT

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".

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.

Treasurer

Richard Low

Get To Know Richard

I have been a member of the Board of Directors of Volunteer Lethbridge for just over a year. My wife Gayle and I moved to Lethbridge after my graduation from the University of Alberta Law School in 1980, and have lived here ever since, raising all of our seven children here. We now are blessed to include 28 grandchildren in the family, the most recent being born March 1st, 2024.

I am now semi-retired from my law practise and have served on various boards and with other community organizations, including a number of years as a member of the Provincial Board of Directors of the Duke of Edinburgh award, which is a youth challenge program sponsored by members of the Royal Family, involving outdoor adventures, and community service.

In addition, I have served in various capacities as a leader and area trainer for Scouts Canada, and I received my 35 year service pin. My wife Gayle and I recently returned from a three-year volunteer service mission for our church, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, during which time we were stationed in Eastern Canada, and were responsible for approximately 200 young adults ages 18-25 who were serving volunteer missions, including a significant component of community service. As such, we were involved in connecting them with various community organizations all over the provinces of Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and PEI.

My wife Gayle and I are also presently serving as the Communication Directors for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for the Southern Alberta Region, and we are responsible for the JustServe plaltform, which is a free application sponsored by the Church, devoted to generating more community volunteers to support non profit organizations, and which works together with Volunteer Lethbridge in various initiatives in the region.

I feel that my main strength I can bring to the Board is an appreciation and understanding of the importance of community based, charitable and non profit organizations such as Volunteer Lethbridge ,in order to assist the most vulnerable sectors of our population. I have seen first hand the power and positive influence of doing volunteer work, especially in the lives of young people, and I feel I can help Volunteer Lethbridge achieve its objectives through my life’s experiences and genuine concern for others.

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

Ali Siees

Get To Know Ali

Ali is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in community engagement and nonprofit work. Having worked at United Way and Family Centre as a Marketing and Communication Coordinator, Ali has developed a knack for driving impactful initiatives and building meaningful connections.

Volunteer Lethbridge was the first place to follow his passion for volunteering and community engagement as soon as he started making Lethbridge his new home.

His leadership journey began during his university years, where he served as the President of the Student Union and a Board Member. He is passionate about social entrepreneurship and strives to integrate this approach into the nonprofit sector, leveraging his business degree background. With a keen focus on supporting causes related to social entrepreneurship and community empowerment, Ali brings a unique perspective and expertise to the community.

Ali is deeply committed to volunteering, reflecting his genuine desire to give back to the community and empower others. His collaborative approach and drive to make a difference make him a valuable asset in any endeavor.

In his free time, Ali enjoys exploring creative pursuits and fostering connections within his community. His genuine passion for making a difference drives his ongoing commitment to meaningful community engagement, wherever he may be."

Director

Heather Gauthier

Get To Know Heather

Building Capacity, Connection & Community

We accomplish this by

Our volunteers

Our 2023

Our 5 pillars

Advocacy

Convening

Volunteer Management

Internal Operational Excellence

Capacity Building

Our Mission

Our Vision

Our Team

Executive Director

Amanda Jensen

Evaluation Manager

Chelsea Eastman

Office Manager

Shelley Ducheminsky

MEMBERSHIP MANAGER

Nicole Bosh

VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR

Jaixann Persigas

Operational and human resources coordinator

Noah Bay

Summer Team

Administrative Assistant

Rori Ryan

YQL Neighbourhood Developer

Raiyana Shams

Municipal Advocate

Ludwig Moelbert

Membership Assistant

Tom Denness

Fund Development Coordinator

Megan Gray

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Support

Tobore Okome

Board of Directors 2024 - 2025

President

David Reeve

Secretary

Moya Johnson

VICE PRESIDENT

Stephan Onyango

DIRECTOR

Lori Harasem

Treasurer

Richard Low

DIRECTOR

Graeme Dearden

Director

Ali Siees

Director

Heather Gauthier

Volunteer Lethbridge

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