Volunteer Advisors: Mobilizing Thousands of Volunteers in Toronto
They are the first point of contact at Volunteer Toronto when someone is looking for information on how to volunteer. Each one of our Advisors makes a difference in the lives of thousands of volunteer seekers. Read more about their impact or get to know the people behind the role by scrolling below.
Volunteer Advisors: Roshini, Ida, Sandra, Samah, and Edwin
"I enjoy volunteering for the simple reason that it makes me feel good. Call it 'Helpers High' or not, we could all do with a little kindness, and what better and simpler way to give and take that is through volunteering."
Meet Roshini Mathews,
Volunteer Advisor since 2019
Roshini is a foodie and a bibliophile. You'll find her with/around books or exploring places on a self-guided food safari, trying new cuisines and flavours. Her go-to flavours gravitate towards Middle Eastern or Japanese cuisines and Indian food.
"While volunteering is a major contributor to community development and collaboration, it helps me to understand the community I am living in a better way. Moreover, by volunteering I can always relish the fact that I am giving back to the community and be confident of my betterment and professional growth."
Edwin Selvan, Volunteer Advisor since 2018
Edwin says that Canada has given him plenty of opportunities, so it would be only fitting to give back by contributing to the community. He enjoys binge-watching, traveling, and helping people who want to come to Canada on a student or permanent residency Visa. His favourite food is Zucchini, after finding out it can be BBQed from his fellow volunteers.
"Volunteering is about connections...I am more connected to my city and I thrive on the connections with our clients. Best of all, as a VT volunteer, I connect people who want to help to groups who need their help.”
— Anonymous Volunteer Advisor
"I think that volunteerism is important to enable everyone to give back to their community through selfless action.The type or scale of action is not important as long as the contribution to the community is helpful. I realize that the meaning of helpful can be subjective."
— Sandra Varanesi, Volunteer Advisor since 2019
"A city like Toronto has many affluent and successful people that drive the economy, culture and general well-being of it’s inhabitants. However, without people giving of their time to help those less fortunate, a city’s soul and reputation as “A Liveable City for all” would fail. A person’s success is not just about money , achievements and possessions, but compassion and caring for your neighbours regardless of their personal status or success."
Meet Jim Brown, Volunteer Advisor since 2019
Most of Jim's life has been devoted to his family and career. He says it's now time to give a helping hand to others who are less fortunate or need a kind word of support or encouragement. His favourite musicians are Elton John/Beatles and he likes to learn about wine and read mystery novels.
"There's a gap between those who want to volunteer and the organizations that need volunteers. I like to think that I'm helping close that gap with my role as an advisor. That's what motivates me."
Noor Abbas, Volunteer Advisor since 2020
Volunteering is important to Noor because it helps strengthen ties to her community. Her favourite artist right now is Doja Cat, she loves to play chess, and highly recommends the donuts from Eataly !
"I'm motivated to volunteer as it's a great way to meet new people, change up my routine, and potentially get out of the house! As a volunteer advisor I've enjoyed helping community members navigate volunteer opportunities, as well as connecting with fellow advisors. It's really been a breath of fresh air to volunteer."
Ida Liao, Volunteer Advisor since 2021
Ida believes that during COVID, volunteering may help alleviate some of the challenges people are facing. She's listening to "Somewhere Only We Know" by Keane on loop, and loves pasta. She recommends Trattoria Nervosa and ARDO Restaurant.
