A new volunteer recruitment project is making impressive headway at Actionmarguerite. Funded by a grant from United Way, four Project Leads have welcomed over 50 new volunteers to the long-term care facility in St. Boniface, with plans to expand volunteer numbers at all three Actionmarguerite locations in the near future.
When a request is made to learn more about the success of the program, all four colleagues arrive for an interview, which is quite indicative of the spirit of what they’re trying to achieve. “I’ve seen a lot of volunteer programs launch over the years,” shares Kamillah Elgiadaa, one of the project leads. “It normally takes years for these programs to get established. But with four of us coming with unique perspectives, we can work on this in a way that truly prioritizes meaningful connections. We know that’s the heart of this program and a big part of why it’s been successful.”
The team is rounded out by Charisse Dimacali, Tracy Laluk and Sarah Van Mackleberg, all experienced volunteer managers. This group of experts have been tackling the challenge of a lack of volunteers from multiple angles: volunteer fairs, strong orientation and onboarding, staff training and engagement.

“The biggest shift has been our focus on meaningful connections for all involved, including the volunteers,” shares Laluk. “We want everyone to find joy and fulfillment. We want people to bring whatever gifts they have, and we can match them with someone or something who needs those gifts. When peopled don’t feel connection, they leave. We understand that.”
Laluk explains that while the small team can do the legwork to get volunteers recruited, the staff at Actionmarguerite have been instrumental in ensuring the program will succeed long term. “Micheline St-Hilaire, the CEO of Actionmarguerite, has made a huge investment,” continues Laluk. “She’s been here to greet volunteers at orientation, to ask their names and welcome them. She’s making herself known in the volunteer community and that will go a long way.”
Sarah Van Mackelbergh underlines the importance of the personal touch in welcoming people who are new to Actionmarguerite. “Some of the recreation staff came to the orientations, too, and shared how excited they were to have volunteers be part of the team,” she explains. “People left saying that they felt like they were part of a family now. It truly makes a difference.”
The group of volunteers featured people of all ages and backgrounds, including a large group of French-speaking volunteers who are recent arrivals to Canada and looking to become a part of their new home city. “We’re truly building community here but it’s more than that,” continues Van Mackelbergh. “Actionmarguerite has instituted a policy where those who have given 100 hours or more of their time get an advantage when applying for work within the organisation. If you invest in your people, they’ll stay. And they are our best advertisement for the power of volunteerism.”
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