Introductions

Care.
Empathy.
Humanity.
Perseverance.
Understanding.

These are just a few of the words often associated with volunteerism. Manitobans understand the value of volunteering, regardless of what Mother Nature has in store for us. Floods, snow storms or tornados, our communities reflect our strong human capital and our commitment to helping in times of need, within our province, country and world.

I have lived in Manitoba all of my life and have watched family members and friends devote their time and energy to humanitarian causes. For example the devotion my best friend has towards volunteering with CancerCare Manitoba after recently having lost her mother. Another friend found determination as he helped construct affordable housing as a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. After 2005's devastating Kashmir earthquake, many friends and family members devoted time and effort to fundraising and organizing clothing drives to help the survivors. Many of their goals have often seemed beyond reach yet, with optimism and unrelenting energy, these volunteers have proven time and time again that the impossible is in fact possible, and that amazing things can be achieved. This is how I became inspired.

Volunteering has taken many forms throughout my life. I was a Reading Mentor with Frontier College, and a Homework Helper for a short time with the Marlene Street Organization. I accompanied my mother as she visited sick members of the community to offer emotional support, and finally, I began organizing community events. Most recently I put together several dinner receptions open to all students which were held at the University of Manitoba in conjunction with the MSA student group.

And now, I am here with you as Volunteer Manitoba’s new blogger. As a student of the University of Manitoba and a writer, this seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore and discuss important issues in the non-profit sector, promote volunteerism, and reach many people. So, here I am writing VM’s very first blog post.

A few little tid-bits about me: My coffee addiction can be classified as borderline dangerous, I enjoy the company of my cat, and I am a first generation Canadian with parents originally from Pakistan.

Our world today is affected in many ways and as a whole, it can all seem very overwhelming. However, even a small contribution can make a difference and have far reaching positive effects. As one popular African Proverb states, “If you think you're too small to make a difference, try sleeping in a room with a mosquito."

Hira Sabzwari

Stay tuned for our blog-it's coming soon!