Volunteering – Canadian Pride Historical Society

Category: Volunteering

12 September 2023

Volunteers are vital to the success of our organization and we are grateful for the hundreds of hours our volunteers dedicate to the work of the Canadian Pride Historical Society. This volunteer spotlight is for Shogo Hosoi, one of our Human Resources Coordinators, based out of Tokyo!

How did you first learn about the CPHS?
I came across a volunteer posting for an HR administrator on Charity Village when I was looking for an opportunity related to my field of study: Human Resource Management. Having volunteered for Pride Toronto in 2022, I was fascinated by the culture of Pride and its integration into the community. From that perspective, I thought that CPHS was the perfect place to volunteer for.

How do you balance your volunteer time at the CPHS with your other competing priorities?
I make time for volunteering in the evenings. In addition to my full-time job, I also look after my three-year-old daughter. There is usually a lot on my plate.

However, having great support from my team makes my tasks clear, which helps me make the most of my limited time.

How has the CPHS helped you in your professional development?
After completing my Masters at the University of Toronto, I returned to Japan, my home country. Being associated with CPHS helps me to build a bond with my second home, while being involved in the whole process of recruitment, selection and onboarding gives me the opportunity to reflect on and apply my studies in HR.

What are 3 words to describe the CPHS?
Inclusive, supportive, meaningful

What do you like the most about the CPHS?
I appreciate the generous support and care of my team. Knowing my interest in DEI, my manager provides information on valuable resources and ongoing projects related to the field. I feel that CPHS values and respects each individual in the organisation.

By Allison Vickery

Volunteering

21 August 2023

Volunteers are vital to the success of our organization, and we are grateful for the hundreds of hours our volunteers dedicate to the work of the Canadian Pride Historical Society. This volunteer spotlight is for Erica Ngaii, one of our Research Coordinators, based out of Toronto, ON. Read more below.

Before volunteering at the CPHS, what was the most unusual or interesting volunteer job you’ve ever had?
I had the most unforgettable volunteer experience as a humanitarian worker in Chihuahua, Mexico for one year. It is a life-changing experience that has played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today.

How has the CPHS helped you in your professional development?
The CPHS has enhanced my skills in effectively locating and utilizing grey literature to address research questions. Through the research tasks I have undertaken at the CPHS, I have gained valuable practical experience in identifying and accessing diverse non-traditional information sources, which is valuable for my research endeavors.

What are 3 words to describe the CPHS?
Diverse, curious, aspirational

How do you balance your volunteer time at the CPHS with your other competing priorities?
I prioritize my tasks in advance and dedicate regular time specifically to CPHS research. The CPHS team has been accommodating and understanding, allowing flexibility when needed.

Thinking of volunteering? Check out our latest volunteer postings HERE.

By Allison Vickery

Volunteering

11 July 2023

Volunteers are vital to the success of our organization, and we are grateful for the hundreds of hours our volunteers dedicate to the work of the Canadian Pride Historical Society. This volunteer spotlight is for Lexie Milmine, one of our Senior Research Coordinators, based out of Hamilton, ON. Read more below.

How did you first learn about the CPHS?

I found out about CPHS when I was looking for opportunities to learn about the non-profit sector and gain experience related to my field of study. I came across a volunteer posting for a Research Coordinator on Charity Village and was excited to have found just the kind of role was hoping for — flexible volunteer work in a GSRD/2SLGBTQIA+-focused organization.

How do you balance your volunteer time at the CPHS with your other competing priorities?

It’s super helpful for me that my role with CPHS compliments what I do outside of volunteering. I’m a PhD Candidate conducting research in the sociology of sexuality and gender and I hope to continue researching in non-profit settings when I graduate. My Sr. Research Coordinator tasks allow me to practice skills that help me in my studies, like critical thinking and knowledge translation, and help me learn more about queer histories, communities, and organizing in Canada. It’s also a way to bridge my skillset with my lived experience as a queer person to contribute to queer communities across Canada.

What do you like the most about the CPHS?

I really appreciate that CPHS approaches research, education, and organizational operations through an intersectional lens. Queer history in Canada is undeniably intertwined with the histories of other equity-seeking communities, and our oppressions and triumphs are connected in complex ways. CPHS volunteers recognize this and continually look for ways to centre voices that are often dismissed, valuing multiple forms of knowledge and lived experience, and working to produce resources that reflect the diversity of Canada’s queer communities.

What advice do you have for prospective volunteers for the CPHS?

We’re fortunate to be able to connect with fellow volunteers from across the country, and this comes with the flexibility to manage your own time, but can leave you feeling a little lost or disconnected when starting a new role. My advice is to be open to asking for help and direction. It can feel uncomfortable to ask questions or admit you’re unsure, but reaching out can help you feel more confident in your role and has the bonus benefit of helping you connect with other team members. We work in teams for a reason, so know that your team members are available over email or teams to help if you’re feeling lost, have questions, or need more guidance.

What are 3 words to describe the CPHS?

Growing, intersectional, honouring.

By Allison Vickery

Volunteering

5 May 2023

Volunteers are vital to the success of our organization, and we are grateful for the hundreds of hours our volunteers dedicate to the work of the Canadian Pride Historical Society. This volunteer spotlight is for Allison Vickery, our Vice-President, Communications and Marketing based out of Calgary, AB. Read more below.

Before volunteering at the CPHS, what was the most unusual or interesting volunteer job you’ve ever had?
I worked for an organization in Peru where I was able to find local non-profits and other organizations that I was passionate about and arrange for the provision of volunteers and resources. It was extremely gratifying to be able to make a direct difference for so many causes and people that I care about. Through this role I also had the opportunity to train and mentor hundreds of volunteers whose passion about their respective volunteer placements was inspiring. 

How has the CPHS helped you in your professional development?
The environment is incredibly supportive which has allowed me take on new challenges while also feeling encouraged and guided along the way. I’ve acquired new skills and gained confidence in the ones I had prior. It has also granted me the ability to network with exceptionally talented volunteers from across the country. 

What advice do you have for prospective volunteers for the CPHS?
My advice is to come share your talent with us! This is a great opportunity for you to shine in your area or get exposure to an area you are interested in. Task assignment is tailored to ensure that no one ever feels overwhelmed or alone with what they are working on. Nothing beats knowing you are using some of your spare time to help make a difference.

What is your proudest moment at the CPHS?
Thanks to the amazing volunteers who assist me with social media graphics and content, we have grown our following exponentially over the past year! Due to their hard work and talent, we can continue to share our free materials, spread our message, and promote an understanding of why Pride is so important to all of us. 

By Allison Vickery

Volunteering

11 March 2023

Volunteers are vital to the success of our organization, and we are grateful for the hundreds of hours our volunteers dedicate to the work of the Canadian Pride Historical Society. This volunteer spotlight is for Paola Valadez, one of our Graphic Design Coordinators based out of Vancouver, BC. Read more below.

How do you balance your volunteer time at the CPHS with your other competing priorities?

As being a part of CPHS is also a priority in my professional life, I reserved one day during the weekend so that it can’t be affected by my work, and I focused on getting everything done.

What do you like the most about the CPHS?

Every day I can learn something new, making me understand and feel proud of every human in the world without judgment.

What has been your favourite project at the CPHS?

Every project has something special, but if I had to choose one, the design of the graphics for the Winnipeg Pride Parade. I am proud to “help” thousands of people throughout the design to spread a message.

What are 3 words to describe the CPHS?

love, pride, history

By Allison Vickery

Volunteering

3 February 2023

Volunteers are vital to the success of our organization, and we are grateful for the hundreds of hours our volunteers dedicate to the work of the Canadian Pride Historical Society. This volunteer spotlight is for Sofia Arora, our Recruitment Coordinator based out of Markham, Ontario, read more below.

Before volunteering at the CPHS, what was the most unusual or interesting volunteer job you’ve ever had?
It was with Red Cross, in their Friendly Calling Program where I got a chance to provide supportive listening, social interaction, and emotional support to the call recipients to help them reduce anxiety, depression, or loneliness.

How did you first learn about the CPHS?
I learned about the opportunity through Charity Village

How do you balance your volunteer time at the CPHS with your other competing priorities?
It’s indeed challenging but the flexibility that CPHS provides me helps a lot to balance out my workload. Besides, I do feel very supported by the team which makes my work easier.  Normally, I keep aside a few hours during weekdays in my schedule to work.

How has the CPHS helped you in your professional development?
CPHS has helped me in building on leadership skills, by giving me a chance to coach and manage another team member. 

Also, I hold a Certified Human Resources Professional CHRP designation, and in order to maintain that I have to complete my Continued Professional Development hours. The time I volunteer with CPHS helps me in achieving a part of it.

What drew you to the CPHS originally? How has the CPHS changed since you joined?
It’s the mission, I am closely working with the folks from the QTBIPOC and LGBT community in my full-time job, and working with CPHS gave me a chance to learn more about Pride’s History and community better.  

In terms of change, I have seen that different roles have been elevated by delegating decision-making power, and processes are being more streamlined using technology. 

What are 3 words to describe the CPHS?
Inclusive, Collaborative, Purposeful

What do you like the most about the CPHS?
Flexibility and management support. 

By Allison Vickery

Volunteering

12 January 2023

Volunteer Spotlight: Cyville Castro

Volunteers are vital to the success of our organization, and we are grateful for the hundreds of hours our volunteers dedicate to the work of the Canadian Pride Historical Society. This volunteer spotlight is for Cyville Castro, one of our Graphic Design Coordinators based out of Vancouver, BC, read more below.

How did you first learn about the CPHS?

I first learned about CPHS from Charity Village. I was looking for some design-related work in the non-profit sector and the organization caught my interest. Their values resonated so much with me, not only because I’m a part of the GSRD umbrella, I am also quite passionate about creating societal change through education, and CPHS gives me the opportunity to do just that.

How do you balance your volunteer time at the CPHS with your other competing priorities?

I take it one week at a time and avoid putting pressure on myself. I genuinely enjoy what I do at the organization, and as long as I can sustain that motivation, I will find the time to put in some work into it. It does get challenging at times. Some weeks I just have too much going on and I don’t have time for volunteer work. It’s okay. We’re a team and that means it’s okay to rely on one another especially when it gets too overwhelming. What’s important is clearly communicating with your team and enjoying the work that you do.

What do you like the most about the CPHS?

I like everything CPHS stands for, but I especially love how supportive everyone is in the organization. Everyone is offering their labour for free, that means there is a relaxed and friendly energy that you just won’t find anywhere else.

What has been your favourite project at the CPHS?

My favourite project at CPHS is the game I’ve been working on since I started volunteering here. I’m creating an educational video-game that walks you through the stories of Canadian pride history. It’s been a slow process and I’ve had to learn so many things from scratch, but it’s also been very rewarding. The goal is to create something that people will enjoy and at the same time, learn from. I’m hoping to release the first part of the game some time next year.

By Allison Vickery

Volunteering

20 December 2022

Volunteers are vital to the success of our organization, and we are grateful for the hundreds of hours our volunteers dedicate to the work of the Canadian Pride Historical Society. This volunteer spotlight is for Natasha Comand, our Sr. Education Coordinator based out of Woodbridge, Ontario. Watch the video or read more below.

Before volunteering at the CPHS, what was the most unusual or interesting volunteer job you’ve ever had?

Before volunteering with CPHS, I was a volunteer with The Peer Project: Youth Assisting Youth. This organization pairs adult mentors with at-risk and newcomer youth, for a 1:1 peer mentoring relationship. The contract for this role stated that mentors and mentees must meet once a week for 3 hours, for the duration of one year. In this role, I was matched with a youth in my area and formed a very strong relationship with her, not only during out time together through this program, but also once it ended. We continued to meet with each other for a few years and still keep in contact to this day as well.

How has the CPHS helped you in your professional development?

Within my professional development, CPHS has helped me to not only learn, but implement valuable skills that can be essential in the workplace. As a recent graduate, CPHS has allowed me to gain experience in my career field and further develop the skills and knowledge needed to advance in my professional development.

What are 3 words to describe the CPHS?

Three words that describe CPHS are: inclusive, authentic, and innovative

What do you like the most about the CPHS?

What I like most about CPHS is the collaboration aspect of the work and the ability to interact with other volunteers and members from different areas within the organization. I also really enjoy the fact that I am constantly learning in my role with CPHS and can see my growth as a person, since joining the team.

What drew you to the CPHS originally? How has the CPHS changed since you’ve joined?

I was originally drawn to CPHS because I was finishing my last year of graduate school, where I was completing a Master of Education in Curriculum & Pedagogy, and I felt as though CPHS was a perfect fit for me and aligned well with my career goals and interests. The role of education coordinator was exactly what I was looking for in a future career, so I felt that starting off as a volunteer in this role would be a perfect way to gain the experience and exposure needed, while making a difference at the same time. Since I joined CPHS almost a year ago, they have grown immensely, and it’s been so rewarding to be a part of this journey. When I first joined, we had yet to launch in the schools and were still putting together materials and lesson plans, so it has been nice to see everything fall into place., and to be with the team as we continue to grow and expand.

What is your proudest moment at the CPHS?

My proudest moment with CPHS has been my promotion to Senior Education Coordinator, as this has allowed me to continue growing and learning as a member of CPHS, in a somewhat more challenging role. It’s also allowed me to interact with more members of different teams within our organization, and to learn even more valuable skills as I continue with this new role.

By Allison Vickery

Volunteering

16 October 2022

Volunteers are vital to the success of our organization, and we are grateful for the hundreds of hours our volunteers dedicate to the work of the Canadian Pride Historical Society. This volunteer spotlight is for Maria-Lise Dobri, one of our Sr. Research Coordinators based out of Whitby, Ontario, read more below.

What advice do you have for prospective volunteers for the CPHS?

The advice that I have for prospective volunteers is to go for it! Since the research is being done online, there’s a great deal of flexibility in how and when you complete your work.

What are 3 words to describe the CPHS?

My 3 words would be: preservation, access, and memory.

What do you like the most about the CPHS?

What I like most about volunteering at the CPHS is the variety of work that I’ve been able to do. As a Research Coordinator, I was searching for information about the history of Pride in Edmonton, and it always felt great to find what I was looking for. In my role as a Senior Research Coordinator, I’m able to work with others and provide support for them. Being able to serve in different roles means that I’m always learning something new.

What drew you to the CPHS originally? How has the CPHS changed since you’ve joined?

I was first drawn to the CPHS by the mission. As someone with a background in history, I’m all too aware of how easy it is for information to get lost. Preservation must be an active process and it’s one that I’m interested in participating in. I joined the CPHS less than a year ago and soon it will start launching the parts of the project designed for users, like the Pride Profiles, so there’s been a change to focus on those aspects — how to present information rather than gathering it.

By Admin

Volunteering

24 July 2022

Volunteers are vital to the success of our organization, and we are grateful for the hundreds of hours our volunteers dedicate to the work of the Canadian Pride Historical Society. This volunteer spotlight is for Vibha Bhat, one of our Research Coordinators based out of Toronto, Ontario, read more below.

Before volunteering at the CPHS, what was the most unusual or interesting volunteer job you’ve ever had?

I am passionate about interacting with people from various backgrounds and in different stages in life. It helps me communicate more effectively. With that in mind, I have volunteered at a local organization which educated new mothers on important aspects of child care, and helped them choose cloth diapers over disposables as we head towards a more sustainable environment.

How did you first learn about the CPHS?

I learned about it through Charity Village. I did further research on my own, which peaked my interest tremendously.

How do you balance your volunteer time at the CPHS with your other competing priorities?

Since the hours of volunteering at CPHS are flexible, I would be able to dedicate my time on the weekends.

How has the CPHS helped you in your professional development?

CPHS gives me the opportunity to interact with professionals from different backgrounds and slightly different time zones, so it helps me hone my interpersonal and collaboration skills. I would also be able to improve my time management skills, as well as make a meaningful and positive impact on the lives of those around me.

What are 3 words to describe the CPHS?

Making a difference.

What has been your favourite project at the CPHS?

I am a google-a-holic(if that is a word). I love to research and so my favorite project is finding references on past Pride Parades.

What is your proudest moment at the CPHS?

My proudest moment would definitely be getting the opportunity to contribute to the LinkedIn page.

What advice do you have for prospective volunteers for the CPHS?

This opportunity will help you develop key soft skills which will be easily translated to your career, so give it your best. Enjoy every minute of knowing you are contributing to documenting Pride history and educating young minds about it.

By Admin

Category: Volunteering

Volunteer Spotlight: Cyville Castro

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