VOLUNTEER WEEK SPOTLIGHT
In celebration of National Volunteer Week, we’re shining a spotlight on the incredible individuals who give their time, energy, and heart to make a difference in our Golf Canada community. We’ll be sharing stories that highlight the unique journeys, passions, and impacts of our volunteers.
📍 Location: Calgary, Alberta
📅 Years of Service: Golf Canada Volunteer Since: 2021
💬 The motto I live by: “Be who you are and say what you feel because those that mind don’t matter, and those that matter don’t mind.” – Dr. Seuss
What motivated you to become a Golf Canada volunteer?
Golf has been an integral part of my family for over three generations. My journey with Golf Canada was a natural next step after years of volunteering with local leagues, junior golf programs, and on Boards at both club and provincial levels.
What do you love most about volunteering in golf?
I love being on the course—it’s my sanctuary. Volunteering allows me to connect with others, learn more about the sport, and contribute to a cause I’m passionate about.
Why do you continue to volunteer year after year?
Because I want future generations to experience the same positive impact golf has had on my family—physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially.
📍 Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
📅 Years of Service: Golf Canada Volunteer Since: 5 years
💬 Fun Fact: I coach my two boys’ hockey teams in the winter and soccer in the summer.
What motivated you to become a Golf Canada volunteer?
To be involved in helping Golf Canada launch their All-Abilities Championship.
What do you love most about volunteering in golf?
Golf is my favourite sport, and Golf Canada is an exceptionally well-run organization. I’m proud to support its growth alongside so many great volunteers.
Why do you continue to volunteer year after year?
Because I love all things golf and want to keep being a voice for All-Abilities golfers as the program expands nationwide. I want future generations to experience the same positive impact golf has had on my family—physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially.
📍 Location: Ayer’s Cliff, Quebec
📅 Years of Service: 20+ years in Quebec; 8+ years with Golf Canada
💬 Fun Fact: I was the first woman to head a co-educational boarding school in Canada.
What motivated you to become a Golf Canada volunteer?
I realized I had valuable skills and experiences I could use to give back to the game.
What do you love most about volunteering in golf?
The incredible people I’ve met—from junior players to fellow officials from across Canada and around the world. Each one has enriched my experience.
Why do you continue to volunteer year after year?
Because it’s fun! I get to contribute, learn, teach, and enjoy the company of others who share a love for the game.
📍 Location: London, Ontario
📅 Years of Service: 34 years
💬 Favourite Motto: Always stay positive, in everything you do.
What motivated you to become a Golf Canada volunteer?
I wanted to be part of the tournament experience—inside the ropes and at the heart of the action.
What do you love most about volunteering in golf?
I’ve always served as a walking scorer and love being part of the tournament’s inner workings.
Why do you continue to volunteer year after year?
It’s so much fun meeting players up close and reconnecting with fellow volunteers. Despite the occasional stress, it’s always a unique and rewarding experience.
📅 Years of Service: 12 years
💬 Fun Fact: 2024 Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Recipient
What does volunteering mean to you in one sentence?
Volunteering means dedicating my time and skills to positively impact the community and benefit others.
What’s the most rewarding part of being a Golf Canada volunteer?
The people. I’ve had the opportunity to meet and work with dedicated staff and passionate volunteers from across Canada and internationally. Being part of a collaborative team working toward shared goals brings great satisfaction.
Can you share a moment when you knew your volunteering made a difference?
I knew it made a difference when I received positive comments from players, parents, and spectators about how well-run our tournaments were—even from international visitors.
How do volunteers like you help shape the future of golf in Canada?
By serving as ambassadors for the sport and offering our time and energy, we help Golf Canada grow and sustain the game across all levels.
📅 Years of Service: 15 years
What does volunteering mean to you in one sentence?
It’s my way of staying young at heart, one tournament at a time.
What’s the most rewarding part of being a Golf Canada volunteer?
Bringing joy to others—seeing kids light up when they meet their heroes, watching fans get emotional seeing their favourite golfers.
Can you share a moment when you knew your volunteering made a difference?
I’ve traveled to tournaments from Hawaii to Ottawa to help create memorable fan experiences.
How do volunteers like you help shape the future of golf in Canada?
By bringing passion and energy to every event, supporting staff, and creating welcoming experiences for fans and players alike.
📍 Location: Victoria, BC
💬 Team Theme Song: “Welcome Back My Friends to the Show That Never Ends” by Emerson, Lake & Palmer
What inspired your team to start volunteering with this program?
Our love for the game of golf and a shared desire to introduce it to the next generation—especially children who might not otherwise have the opportunity—drew us to this program.
How does your program make the game more accessible for youth?
We offer free programs, equipment, and access to top-tier facilities, thanks to Cordova Bay Golf Course.
What skills has your team developed through running this program and how has volunteering together strengthened your team’s connections?
We’ve become more adaptive and learned to collaborate more effectively. It’s shown us new sides of one another—we’ve become coaches and mentors, not just fellow golfers.
What’s one lesson your team has learned from working with young golfers?
Every session is more than just teaching technique. Creating a safe, inclusive space is just as important.