Community Stories
Marie's Story – Volunteering launches a whole new life
Marie, from St. Catharines, Ontario was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis when she was only 31 years old. As a young, working single mother of two boys she was not aware of where to go for help. Not long afterwards, her hip gave out, forcing her to quit her job. A friend told Marie about the services offered through her local Arthritis Society and she later offered to volunteer there. Soon she was the Treasurer. As her experience grew, so did her self-esteem and confidence, and she began to feel better. She helped with golf tournaments, self-management programs and started speaking in public on behalf of the Society.
Marie’s volunteer experience was the catalyst that made her go back to school, graduating with a BA in Applied Science in 2007. Now in her forties, she is close to landing her dream job as an advocate. “Volunteering for the Arthritis Society for me is really a selfish thing because I know I get much more out of it than I could ever give. I learn something new from the people I talk to and have made some great friends through the years and had lots of fun doing it!”
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Volunteers Say...
"As a volunteer I receive excellent support and training. I am free to volunteer in a capacity that fits my lifestyle and my health. I am not pressured in any way."
Doug, Volunteer
Did You Know?
Volunteering builds your social networks, increases your skills, reduces stress and promotes health and wellness.
