Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do at Nistawoyou Friendship Centre. They help deliver programs, support community events, and create welcoming spaces where people of all ages can connect, learn, and grow. Whether it’s assisting with youth activities, supporting elders programs, helping at community meals, or lending a hand at cultural events, every volunteer plays a role in strengthening our community.
Over the past year, more than 150 volunteers have contributed their time and energy, helping us create meaningful impact through over 1,400 volunteer hours. That impact goes far beyond numbers; it’s felt in the relationships built, the confidence gained, and the sense of belonging that grows with every shared experience.
We spoke with Trace, one of our newer volunteers, about his journey over the past year, what keeps him coming back, and what volunteering at Nistawoyou means to him.
Q&A with Trace
How long have you been volunteering with us, and what first drew you in?
I first started volunteering at NAFC around this time last year at the suggestion of my old coworker and friend Jen From (NAFC’s lovely Volunteer/Youth Coordinator) as she was aware of how much I was wanting to get back into volunteer work.
What does volunteering at Nistawoyou mean to you personally? What keeps you coming back?
It absolutely lives up to its name because to me it means friendship. I have built such amazing relationships with everyone that I have met here over the past year and I always look forward to seeing my friends again as we grow together.
What programs or activities have you been involved in/helped with?
I’ve been to a wide variety of programs at this point from kids camps to our municipalities homeless connect event, beading workshops and so much more. Though I do have to say that my most cherished ones are the Elders & Seniors Supper and Dot Painting classes taught by the wonderful Arlene [Desjarlais-Wallace], these events will almost always have me in attendance as they are just too great to miss.
What’s something small that made a big impact on you while volunteering?
The community support. Everyone here has such a good heart and they are always so quick to cheer you on. You walk in and you’re part of a large caring family that’s just so happy to see you.
Have you picked up any unexpected skills while volunteering?
As silly as this may sound for an unexpected skill, I never knew how to play Bingo before this!
How has volunteering here (and in general) impacted your life?
It’s really helped with my self-confidence in ways I never expected it would. NAFC is such a positive environment full of members and staff who are so quick to know the good in you and push you into reaching new goals or be simply the lovely you.
Why do you think organizations like Nistawoyou are important in our community?
I believe that places like NAFC are important because community is, and will always be, medicine for the heart and for the soul. Similar to organizations like the Wood Buffalo Regional Library, Justin Slade Youth Foundation, and so many more amazing organizations, NAFC acts as an essential community hub filled with resources, human connections, cultural celebration. Without places like these our community would simply not thrive.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about Nistawoyou?
That everyone is welcome! Regardless of your age, gender, sexuality or ethnicity – this is a place for everyone and there is always something for you here. Whether it’s a warm coffee/meal and a chat, Family Nights with Knowledge Keeper Claire, cultural lessons of all kinds, kids events and crafting galore!
What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering with us?
You’re going to love it, come join us for dinner!!
Can you share a little about yourself (hobbies, interests, background)?
I’m a 26 year old fiber artist born and raised in Fort McMurray. I have three sisters that I adore, and the best dad and step-mom a guy could ask for. I can be found spending my free time with family/friends, working on my artsy projects (ranging from crochet and sewing to customizing my goth wardrobe) and relaxing at home with my two disabled cats.
What’s your go-to comfort activity after a volunteer shift?
When the weather is warm I always enjoy a long walk home with either a coffee trip or stopping by Caribou Flowers to get myself a plant, in the colder months I tend to go straight home to cuddle with my movie buddy (my cat Hiccup) and work on some crochet projects.
If you could give every new volunteer one “starter pack,” what would be in it?
Some good shoes.
If volunteering had a superpower, what would yours be?
The power of friendship 100%.
Emoji that describes your volunteer experience:
🥰
GIF that matches your energy while volunteering:
https://share.google/0lnkG011v9w2ajF5m
One word your friends would use to describe you:
Genuine
Get Involved
Volunteering at Nistawoyou Friendship Centre is a chance to be part of something meaningful – whether you’re supporting programs, helping at events, or simply showing up to lend a hand. Opportunities include working with youth and families, supporting elders programs and community meals, assisting with cultural programming, and helping with seasonal events and outreach.
Find more information on volunteering here.
Our Centre offers a wide range of programs and services for youth, elders, families, adults, and vulnerable individuals, rooted in traditional values and culture. Through strong partnerships with local organizations and deep connections within both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, we continue to grow alongside the people we serve.
If you’ve been thinking about volunteering, this is your invitation. As Trace puts it, you’re going to love it – and there’s always a place for you here!
