Each year, National Volunteer Week 2026 offers an opportunity to pause and recognize the individuals who quietly, consistently, and compassionately show up for others. This year’s theme, “Ignite Volunteerism,” speaks to something powerful-the idea that one act of care can spark connection, hope, and lasting change across an entire community. At HopeSpring Cancer Support Centre, we see that spark every single day. Shawn Halwatzki, volunteer and HopeSpring Board President, “during National Volunteer Week 2026, we pause with deep gratitude to recognize the extraordinary individuals who make HopeSpring Cancer Support Centre what it is today-you, our volunteers, our donors, our community… our Hopesters. Guided by hope. Grounded in community. Powered by compassion. Every Cancer. Every Stage. Everyone. These are not just words-they are brought to life through your actions each and every day.” The Heart of HopeSpring A cancer diagnosis can feel sudden and isolating. In those moments, connection becomes everything. Volunteers help create spaces where individuals don’t have to explain, filter, or carry their experiences alone. “I have been a HopeSpring volunteer wig consultant for just over a year. Being able to find just the right wig and put a smile on a member’s face makes me smile as well. It’s an amazing privilege that I get to do what I do for such a wonderful organization” ~ Janine Fries, Volunteer Wig Consultant As one HopeSpring member shared: “Because women and men, anybody with cancer, needs to make those connections. Because, you know, you’re blindsided by cancer. Cancer is a life-altering illness, and the average person just doesn’t get it. Whereas when you’re in a group with other people with cancer, they get it. You don’t have to weigh your words. You don’t have to think about what you’re saying. It’s okay, and I think that’s wonderful.” `Anonymous HopeSpring Member This sense of understanding-of simply being “gotten” is often made possible by volunteers who hold space, facilitate programs, and offer compassion without judgment. Creating Spaces for Healing Volunteers are often the first friendly face, the steady presence in a support group, or the quiet encouragement someone didn’t know they needed. Another member reflected on their experience in a HopeSpring program: “You know, like I would just went there and cried and cried and cried… and she helped me get perspective. And then I joined the women’s support group… there were 16 of us… and we stayed in touch. You guys are awesome.”~Anonymous HopeSpring Member These moments-raw, real, and deeply human-are at the core of what HopeSpring offers. Volunteers help transform difficult days into shared experiences, where healing begins through connection. Why Volunteerism Matters More Than Ever Across Canada, organizations are feeling the impact of what some are calling a “volunteer void.” And yet, the need has never been greater. People are more likely to volunteer when they feel connected to a cause-when they see the direct impact of their time and energy. At HopeSpring, that impact is immediate and meaningful. Volunteering doesn’t just support others-it also supports the volunteer. Research from organizations like Mayo Clinic Health System and Canadian Mental Health Association Toronto highlights the wide-reaching benefits: Improved mood and reduced stress A stronger sense of purpose and self-worth Decreased feelings of loneliness and isolation Better physical health and overall well-being Opportunities to build relationships and develop new skills In short, volunteering is a powerful exchange-it gives as much as it receives. Gloria Shoon, HopeSpring Board Member and dedicated volunteer, knows firsthand what it means to give back. Drawing from her own cancer journey, she shared how volunteerism has shaped both her healing and her sense of purpose: Q – Why is it important to you to volunteer and what benefits do you realize personally? A – Volunteering allows me to share all the many tools that have assisted me in my own breast cancer journey with others. I believe that it is in giving that we receive – and volunteering is the perfect opportunity to do just that!!! Q – Where do you see the impacts in HopeSpring of volunteerism and why did you choose HopeSpring? A – All our programs provide each member with the opportunity to assist in their own personal healing journey. Healthy bodies, mind and spirit leads to a healthy community. HopeSpring provides services to anyone with any type of cancer in my community and therefore it was a natural choice to choose HopeSpring – by choosing HopeSpring I am choosing my Community!!! Igniting a More Compassionate Community Today’s volunteers, particularly younger generations, are drawn to ideas like community care and collective impact. They want to be part of something meaningful-something that makes a difference. HopeSpring is exactly that kind of place. Every conversation, every support group, every program is strengthened by volunteers who choose to show up. They are the reason someone feels less alone. The reason someone finds the courage to share. The reason hope continues to grow. A Heartfelt Thank You To every HopeSpring volunteer and donors-past and present-thank you. Thank you for your time, your empathy, and your unwavering commitment to those navigating cancer. You are the spark behind so many moments of connection and healing. “This National Volunteer Week, we celebrate you-not just for what you do, but for the way you make people feel. You are the reason HopeSpring continues to grow, adapt, and reach further than ever before. You are the reason we can say with confidence that no matter who someone is, where they come from, or what they are facing-there is a place for them here. From all of us at HopeSpring Cancer Support Centre, thank you for your time, your compassion, your generosity, and your unwavering belief in the power of community. To our Hopesters-you don’t just support HopeSpring. You are HopeSpring.”~Shawn Hlowatzki Interested in Getting Involved? If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, there’s no better time to start. Organizations like Volunteer Canada offer resources to help you find opportunities that align with your passions and availability. And if you’re looking to
