Inspiring words from a Highschool Volunteer

Crafting for a Cure is a registered charity that looks to ensure all children are having a positive experience when a hospital visit is necessary. I had first worked with them at their annual Gala in grade 11. At this event I got to meet a variety of new individuals ranging from other volunteers, business owners, and healthcare workers who all had their own unique stories and goals. It was a great introduction into the impact of networking. Collectively, I had been a part of a moment that made an impact on so many others, and my interest for the charity grew. That’s when I began thinking about making a chapter at my school a reality. I reached out to the founder, got approval from my principal, and set out a proposal to teachers in the school I knew would align with my hopes. After weeks of emailing and meetings, it was time to find an executive team. The club had accumulated over 20 applicants interested in applying for the positions. At this time, I needed to recognize the potential of others and understand what it means to be a resourceful and good team player. I focused on findinding balance in an inclusive, collaborative, and passionate group, while taking the advice of my teacher advisors along the way. I write about my team now with a smile on my face. I do not know what I would do without them! Within the club itself, we focus on spreading smiles both inside our own school and in our community. For the past 4 months my executive team and I have met every week. We have hosted 3 successful events and gained over 100 members school wide. We have packed various boxes of craft kits to children in hospitals all over Canada. We also held 2 bake sales raising $500 and working with brands like Starbucks and COBS Bread. Delegating this has taken time management, compassion, patience, organization, and extreme responsibility. I have seen first hand how many doors my efforts and soft skills can open. Along with the founder of the charity, I visited the Markham Stouffville Hospital. Specifically, we spent the day with children in their diabetic clinic. I connected with a young girl, whom I crafted and played with in the hospital. The most memorable moment for me occurred when the nurses came up to me at the end of the day and thanked me. I had found out this little girl had not usually participated in activities during her stays, and had come out of her shell for the first time since her medical journey began. This is exactly what the charity aims to do, and I am proud to be part of bringing smiles to others. This opportunity has given me new friends, a close bond with teachers who have become my mentors, and an excitement to continue exploring similar initiatives in post secondary.