I have a strong desire to give back to my community. For me, it’s never been about building a “brand” or seeking attention. Volunteering is something that truly fulfills me, which is why I choose causes that hold real meaning for both my family and myself.

 

 

I sit on the Board of Directors for KidFish as their Volunteer Coordinator. KidFish hosts an annual ice fishing derby, with all proceeds supporting the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation and the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba. To date, KidFish has raised over $485,000 for these incredible causes.

I have also recently joined Habitat for Humanity as a Habitat Ambassador. Sara(my wife) and I have a friend who was selected as a recipient of one of Habitat’s homes. One of the requirements is completing 500 volunteer hours at a build site or Habitat ReStore. We were excited to support our friend by volunteering alongside her to help her reach those hours—and we’ve already signed up for more build days.

 

 

As a REALTOR®, I see firsthand how challenging it can be for young families to qualify for a mortgage, save for a down payment, and find an affordable home in today’s market. That’s part of what makes being involved with Habitat for Humanity so meaningful to me.

When our middle child was born, he spent three weeks in the NICU at Health Sciences Centre. At just two weeks old, he underwent exploratory surgery, where doctors discovered and removed a partial blockage in his intestine. During that time, he required two blood transfusions. Since then, we’ve made it a priority to donate blood as a way of giving back—to say thank you, and to replace what was given to us. Giving is simply part of who we are.

 

 

Last year, Sara and I volunteered with Operation Red Nose. Having used their service ourselves, we truly appreciate the role they play in helping people get home safely to their loved ones. It’s an organization we’re proud to support, and one we plan to continue volunteering with in the future.

I have been a Marriage Commissioner for the Province of Manitoba for over 14 years, and have had the privilege of officiating ceremonies for over one hundred couples. These are moments I truly treasure—you will never see people happier than in that instant, and it’s an honour to play a small role in such an important day. Since becoming a REALTOR®, I now offer my services free of charge to family and friends.

 

 

There are so many incredible causes out there that you can support. If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, I encourage you to take that first step—you won’t regret it.