Celebrating Volunteers: Making Waves of Change in Our Communities

Fifty years ago, ABLE2, formerly known as Citizen Advocacy Ottawa, was founded on a simple yet powerful idea: community is built by people who care. Inspired by a movement in the U.S. that saw volunteers supporting individuals transitioning from institutions to independent living, our founder, David Hall, mobilized a network of community members who believed in inclusion, belonging, and the power of human connection. Today, ABLE2 continues to thrive because of the dedication of volunteers who believe everyone deserves to live lives of meaning and joy.

At the heart of this mission is ABLE2’s Matching Program, which fosters one-on-one friendships between volunteers, or “Allies,” and people with disabilities, or “Friends.” Over the years, we have seen the transformative change these intentional friendships have— people with disabilities expanding their social connections, gaining confidence, increasing their self-esteem, improving their overall mental and physical health, and a better appreciation of life. Over time, these matches become more than just volunteer-service user relationships; they become life-long friends and sometimes consider each other as family. When people with disabilities have someone who chooses to stand by them— not because they are paid to do so, but because they want to— it enables them to feel included, feel less isolated and live a life that means something to them.

And the impact doesn’t stop there. Empowered by these social connections, many of our Friends become advocates and volunteers themselves. Mark, for example, has been involved with ABLE2 for years and now spends his time volunteering at a food bank and supporting ABLE2’s events. His story is one of resilience and generosity, and while we celebrate his determination, we also recognize the role that community support has played in helping him realize his potential. This is the power of volunteerism— it’s a gift that keeps on giving. Each act of kindness sparks another, creating a chain reaction of generosity and inspiring others to pay it forward. Volunteers don’t just create ripples of change— they make waves. 

The impact of volunteerism at ABLE2 extends far beyond one-on-one friendships. It weaves through every part of our organization, strengthening our mission in ways big and small. When Reach Canada merged with ABLE2 in 2023, we expanded our capacity to support people with disabilities in accessing justice. Today, we work with more than 200 volunteer lawyers, paralegals, and mediators who provide free legal consultations, empowering individuals with disabilities to assert their rights, challenge inequities, and seek the justice they deserve. Volunteers also play a crucial role in our events, providing accessibility assistance so that every attendee can fully participate without barriers. Behind the scenes, a dedicated committee of volunteers works tirelessly to make our biggest fundraising event, Evening in the Maritimes, a success. And the backbone of the organization, our Board of Directors, who provide steadfast leadership, guiding ABLE2’s growth and strengthening our ability to serve even more people. 

Making a difference doesn’t require a formal title. Every act of generosity— whether offering a helping hand, advocating for others, or simply showing up for someone in need— has a profound impact. As Heather French Henry, a former Miss America and veterans advocate, once said, “Volunteering is at the very core of being human. No one has made it through life without someone’s help.” 

As we celebrate National Volunteer Week, we take this moment to express our deepest gratitude to the compassionate and kind individuals who volunteer. You are the heart of our community, and the driving force behind a stronger, more inclusive world. 

Happy National Volunteer Week!

Published by

Heather Lacey

Experienced Non-Profit Executive Director

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