Over the years, I’ve learned that life isn’t just about the work we do, the projects we lead, or the milestones we hit. Some of the most meaningful experiences come from helping others and contributing to the community around us. Community philanthropy has been a consistent part of my life, whether it’s volunteering at the Richmond Hill Community Food Bank, responding to emergencies with the Canadian Red Cross, or supporting smaller local causes. These experiences have taught me that giving back isn’t just about money—it’s about time, energy, and commitment—and that cultivating a culture of giving can transform not just organizations, but communities and individuals as well.

Volunteering: Lessons Beyond the Job

I started volunteering at an early age, inspired by family and faith. Growing up, we were Catholic, and the community around us emphasized helping those in need. Over time, volunteering became a natural part of who I am. I’ve learned lessons in humility, empathy, and leadership that no classroom or corporate role could teach.

When I joined the Richmond Hill Community Food Bank as a volunteer, and later a board member and compliance officer, I saw firsthand the impact that consistent effort and good governance can have. It’s not just about distributing food—it’s about building trust, ensuring fairness, and creating systems that help people in meaningful ways. These lessons have also shaped how I approach professional work, from leading project teams to mentoring students. Helping others requires patience, active listening, and a commitment to doing the right thing—even when it’s difficult.

Responding to Emergencies

Some of my most memorable volunteer experiences have been with the Canadian Red Cross. Between 2020 and 2024, I had the opportunity to serve as a site manager during multiple emergency responses. These included the Covid-19 response in Kashechewan First Nation, relief after Hurricane Fiona in Prince Edward Island, and supporting Ukrainian arrivals in Toronto.

These experiences are intense, challenging, and at times emotionally draining. But they also reveal the resilience and generosity of people in times of crisis. Coordinating resources, guiding volunteers, and helping communities navigate uncertainty taught me invaluable lessons about leadership under pressure. The same principles—clear communication, strategic planning, and empathy—apply both in community service and in professional environments.

Giving Is About More Than Money

When most people think of philanthropy, they think of financial donations. While money can make a difference, I’ve come to realize that giving time and skills is just as important. For instance, volunteering as a compliance officer may seem administrative, but it ensures that resources are distributed fairly and efficiently, ultimately maximizing impact. Similarly, providing guidance, mentorship, or even simply showing up consistently can have profound effects on people’s lives.

I try to approach giving with intention. Each year, I choose a charity to support and commit to helping in tangible ways. It’s about making a measurable difference rather than checking a box. Consistency matters, and over time, even small contributions—whether time, expertise, or financial—compound into significant impact.

Building a Culture of Giving

Philanthropy is most powerful when it becomes part of the culture, whether in a workplace, a community, or a family. In my professional experience, I’ve seen organizations thrive when leaders model generosity, encourage volunteerism, and celebrate acts of giving. People want to contribute when they see that their efforts are valued and that their contributions make a difference.

In a community context, building a culture of giving starts with visibility and engagement. Sharing stories about the people helped, the volunteers involved, and the outcomes achieved inspires others to join. Recognizing effort, not just donations, reinforces the idea that everyone can contribute, regardless of resources. Leadership in philanthropy is about setting the tone, modeling behavior, and creating opportunities for participation.

Why It Matters Personally

For me, humanitarian and community work isn’t just something I do—it’s core to my values. It shapes how I see the world, informs my professional choices, and gives purpose to my actions. Each volunteer experience reminds me that we are all part of something bigger than ourselves and that our efforts—no matter how small—can ripple out to make meaningful change.

I’ve also learned that giving back enriches the giver as much as the recipient. Volunteering teaches empathy, patience, and perspective. It creates connections with people I might never meet otherwise and reminds me to stay grounded, grateful, and focused on what truly matters.

Encouraging Others to Give

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my philanthropic work has been inspiring others to participate. Whether it’s mentoring a colleague to volunteer, engaging a student in community service, or collaborating with other board members to improve outreach, I’ve seen how brian kellypencouragement and guidance can multiply impact. People often underestimate the influence of their time and skills, but once they experience the reward of helping, it becomes contagious.

Philanthropy isn’t about grand gestures. It’s about creating habits, sharing what you have, and showing up for others consistently. The small acts of kindness, when repeated over time, become a movement that strengthens the fabric of any community.

Community philanthropy is not just a responsibility—it’s a privilege. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, or supporting local initiatives, giving back has the power to transform lives, organizations, and communities. For me, the lessons I’ve learned from humanitarian work—empathy, resilience, leadership, and commitment—have shaped not only my personal values but also my professional practice.

We all have the ability to contribute, in ways big and small. By building a culture of giving in our families, workplaces, and communities, we create environments where generosity and service become the norm rather than the exception. And in doing so, we make the world a little brighter, one act at a time.