Volunteering
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.
