Jamie says Red Cross has great mentors.Originally from Saskatchewan, Jamie Dzikowski moved to Ontario to attend university and never left. It was when Jamie was completing her Masters degree at Carleton over three years ago that her fellow classmate had asked about someone taking over his volunteer responsibilities at the Red Cross. Jamie thought she’d jump in and see what it was all about.
I knew about the world wide appeals that the Red Cross was involved with, but I wasn’t aware of the vast level of local programming that happens throughout communities across Ontario.
Jamie began volunteering in the Ottawa branch in a governance capacity and was immediately hooked. She’s been actively involved in many Red Cross initiatives over the years including Walmart fundraising campaigns, volunteer appreciation banquets, and as a representative on the Ottawa Branch Council, and the Eastern Regional Ontario Council.
Having focused her education on Public Administration, Jamie’s volunteer work with the Red Cross allows her to stretch her skills. She is passionate about institutions and public policy, and through her volunteer work, she can apply her skills and interests in a non-profit environment, and do things she doesn't get to do in her normal day-to-day as a public servant.
Jamie comes from a globe-trotting family, so outside of her volunteer work and her job, Jamie loves to travel and is currently planning a trip to Norway next. On a typical weekend, you might find her training for half marathons, or playing Ultimate Frisbee on Parliament Hill.
“I’ve enjoyed meeting many amazing, dedicated and committed volunteers and staff, and I like being able to support and be involved in an organization that, at its core, is committed to treating people,” said Jamie. “There is a great network for mentorship here, and I think that is something unique about volunteering with the Red Cross.”