RMH BC & Yukon Volunteers at Horse Track

Meet our Volunteers

Volunteer

Making Waves of Compassion at RMH BC & Yukon

Making Waves of Compassion at RMH BC & Yukon

Our volunteers are the heart of our community, creating ripples of kindness that touch every family who walks through our doors. This National Volunteer Week (April 27 – May 3), we celebrate the incredible individuals who dedicate their time, energy, and compassion to making RMH BC & Yukon a home away from home.

 

This year’s theme, Volunteers Make Waves, perfectly reflects the lasting impact of our volunteers. Whether they’re preparing meals, organizing activities, or offering a warm smile, their dedication creates waves of comfort and support for families facing medical challenges. Join us in recognizing the power of volunteering and the difference it makes—one ripple at a time. Thank you to all our volunteers for your unwavering kindness and generosity!

Volunteers Making Waves: Jennifer & Bob Gardner

Jennifer and Bob Gardner have seen firsthand the impact of RMH BC & Y—both as dedicated volunteers and as Housewarmers. Their monthly giving ensures families can count on a warm, welcoming place to stay during their child’s medical journey.

 

“We just see the power of what RMH BC & Y does. So, we decided to become monthly donors to have some involvement. We understand the financial stability that’s required to keep these kinds of commitments to families, as opposed to once a year.” – Jennifer & Bob Gardner

Meet The Gardners
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In 2024, 336 regular volunteers contributed 5,924 hours to help serve our families! ”

Meet Dewey: Making Waves and Warm Meals with Heart

Making Waves Since 2015

Since joining RMH BC & Yukon in September 2015, Traci has already contributed 1,000 hours to our families. She has become a familiar and welcoming face at our front desk, offering a kind smile and helping hand to families arriving at the House each week. But Traci’s impact doesn’t stop there—she’s also a passionate supporter of our community and signature events, often lending her time and energy to help make them a success. Her commitment, both inside and outside the House, reflects her deep care for the families we serve.

Traci’s most memorable moment happened during a 2019 fundraiser, when country artist Aaron Pritchett performed a mini concert in the Grand Family Room. “The room was absolutely packed with families and guests,” she recalls. “Watching everyone—especially the families—singing, dancing, and enjoying life in that moment filled my heart. It was pure joy.”

Winston’s Wave of Kindness

For Winston Thompson, volunteering at RMH BC & Yukon is deeply personal. After caring for a child with health challenges and experiencing the support his family received during medical treatment in Vancouver, Winston felt called to give back. His journey is rooted in gratitude—and every week, he shows up with compassion and purpose.

Since joining in March 2024, Winston has contributed 182 volunteer hours and counting. He’s a dedicated member of our Wednesday food support team, helping prepare meals and support pantry needs. Beyond the kitchen, Winston is a familiar face at family meals, in-house activities, and signature community events.

STEM, Smiles and Simple Joys   

Since April 2019, Brad has been lighting up Thursday nights at RMH BC & Yukon with creativity, curiosity, and care. As a key part of our weekly STEM program, Brad brings fun, learning, and connection to families through activities like medical play, Lego robotics, and more.

With over 444 volunteer hours, Brad has shared countless moments of joy with children and families. Brad’s fondest memory was one Christmas Eve, as the shift was ending, a father and his sick child arrived for the STEM program. The child was clearly unwell, and the father, exhausted from a long day, was drained. Brad simply offered them space to unwind, allowing them to share a quiet moment together. It wasn’t about the activities, but about offering comfort when it was needed most. The father’s heartfelt gratitude left a lasting impression on Brad, reminding him why he volunteers.

Making Waves Since January 2025

After staying at the Ronald McDonald Family Room in Surrey in 2022 following the birth of her daughter, Darya knew she wanted to give back. Whether she’s baking muffins, preparing snacks, or tidying up the space, Darya brings warmth and care to every shift—often remembered by families who appreciate her familiar, friendly presence.

“I’ve learned that sometimes visitors just need someone to listen. A clean towel, a banana muffin, or a smile can go a long way,” she shares. “RMH BC was there for me when I needed it—and now I get to be there for someone else.”

Making Waves Since September 2023

Loretta has quickly become a vital part of our Wednesday Night Project Crew. What began years ago with a friend’s invitation to help cook meals has grown into a meaningful weekly commitment filled with friendship, laughter, and purpose.

For Loretta, the magic of RMH BC & Yukon lies not just in what she gives, but what she receives. “I get so much more back for myself than I feel I give,” she shares. From crafting friendship bracelets at Taylor Swift Night to cheering on a surprise performance, she treasures the joy and connection that volunteering brings to everyone involved.

It’s the people—families, staff, and especially her fellow Wednesday night volunteers—that keep Loretta coming back. “We’ve become great friends,”.

Making Waves Since January 2020

With over 1,000 hours, Leslie has become a steady and compassionate presence at RMH BC & Yukon. Her love of children and her desire to brighten their days fuel her commitment to creating a space where families feel supported and cared for.

One moment that stands out for Leslie was when a young girl undergoing treatment began to follow her during dinner setup. When the child asked to help, Leslie handed her a folded tablecloth—an act of kindness the little girl talked about all week, her mother later shared. “It’s the kids who keep me motivated,” Leslie says. “They’re so strong and amazing, even with everything they’re going through.”

Full of smiles every time he enters the House, Dewey looks forward to the few hours he spends each week volunteering as a Family Meal Host. A memorable moment came during his second shift, when he was still getting acclimatized to RMH BC & Yukon. In the middle of prepping the kitchen for an incoming group, a girl took his hand and proclaimed that they were going to find Nemo. And off they went!