Volunteers: The Heartbeat of Hamilton Health Sciences
As this year’s National Volunteer Week approaches, we must not only celebrate our volunteers but also acknowledge the shifting landscape of volunteerism. Across Canada, organizations are facing a decline in volunteer participation, yet the need for volunteers has never been greater. The reality is that volunteerism is an essential part of many sectors, particularly health care, where volunteers play a critical role in ensuring compassionate, patient-centered care.
At Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS), our 800 volunteers are integral to the patient and family experience. They provide comfort in waiting rooms, guide visitors through hospital corridors, and offer moments of humanity in what can be an overwhelming environment. Their contributions extend beyond kindness; they create ripples of change that support staff, improve patient outcomes, and enhance the overall health-care experience.
The theme for this year’s National Volunteer Week is “Volunteers Make Waves: Together, we create ripples of change.” And yet, the waves we rely on are at risk of becoming smaller. Many organizations, including hospitals, charities, and community services, are struggling to recruit and retain volunteers. This presents a challenge, but also an opportunity—to reimagine the role of volunteers, invest in their development, and ensure they are valued as key contributors to our collective well-being.
At HHS, we are leading this charge. By creating meaningful roles, fostering engagement, and advocating for the importance of volunteer work, we are ensuring that volunteerism remains a sustainable and vital part of our health-care system.
As a community, we must ask ourselves: How do we inspire more people to volunteer? How do we shift the perception of volunteerism from something extra to something essential? The answer lies in storytelling—highlighting the transformative impact volunteers have, sharing the voices of those they help, and showcasing the tangible difference they make every day.
This National Volunteer Week, let’s not just thank volunteers—let’s rally for them. Let’s recognize the growing need for their work and commit to supporting, uplifting, and celebrating them in a meaningful way. Volunteerism is not a luxury; it is a necessity, and together, we must ensure its future remains strong.
To the volunteers of Hamilton Health Sciences and beyond: thank you. You are not just participants; you are leaders, change makers, and the heartbeat of our community.
Morgan Richardson
Manager, Volunteer Resources
Hamilton Health Sciences
Originally published in the Hamilton Spectator on April 28, 2025