Originally from the Ukraine, Canadian Red Cross volunteer Igor Kyzym moved to St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, six years ago to attend university. As a newcomer, Igor says he received a “very warm welcome” and that his transition into the local community went so smoothly that he decided to remain in the city after graduation.
“Right away, I learned that Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are very friendly and always willing to help each other.”
In 2019, Igor decided he wanted to give back to his adopted community and applied to become a volunteer with the Canadian Red Cross as a driver for its
Meals on Wheels program. He volunteers every Friday during lunch hour.
“I pick up meals packed in thermal bags, check my route list for any changes or special instructions, count all the items, and if everything checks out, I’m off to the race.”
Igor normally drives the same route every week and delivers to the same clients, mostly seniors. Before the pandemic, he used to stop to check in on clients, have a little chat or give them an update on the weather. Today, volunteers follow safety protocols such as wearing personal protective equipment and do contactless delivery. Igor says that even though interactions are now limited to a wave through a window, he can still see how thankful people are for their meals.
“I must say it feels great. It takes less than an hour to finish my route, but it’s enough time to make that positive change and it makes me want to come back and do the same thing again next week.”
In February, Igor also volunteered as part of the Canadian Red Cross’s assistance to the provincial government at two outdoor drive-through
COVID-19 testing sites in Mount Pearl after the entire province went under lockdown as public officials battled an outbreak in the capital region. Red Cross volunteers assisted in the response by directing traffic and helping with client registration, while nurses took swabs, staff cleaned snow, local businesses donated food and about a hundred people worked behind the scenes. He describes his experience as one he will never forget.
“The testing site was massive with eight lanes. It was some sight to see,” Igor says. “I was amazed by how well everyone worked together. People remained calm, respectful, and dedicated to their jobs.”
As a Canadian Red Cross volunteer, Igor shares that you become part of an equation, part of a team. He also enjoys meeting new and interesting people and learning new skills.
“You’re no longer just helping one individual; you are helping your whole community. To those who are thinking of volunteering, I’d just like to say – give it a go. There’s a good chance that after you try it once, you’ll want to do it again.”
There are many volunteer opportunities available - For more information visit www.redcross.ca/volunteer