Volunteering is a Game-Changer!
“To give back is so important, and it feels good. Especially since SMD supported me for many years.” Scott McMillan
Scott McMillan started volunteering with SMD in 1995 and has amassed over 2,100 hours. He has gained a tremendous understanding of the various programs/services we offer along with the multiple fundraisers he’s participated in over the years.
He has supported our Children and Adult Recreation & Leisure programming as a Summer Access worker, attended special events such as Drop Zone, and much more. “He is very reliable!” says Jenny Rodriguez, SMD’s Volunteer and HR Coordinator.
Scott’s first fundraiser was the 24 hour relay which took place at the old Winnipeg Blue Bomber stadium. A group of 10-15 people would take turns walking around the track 1 hour at a time for 24 hours. He reminisces about the joys of having a bonfire and playing volleyball while waiting for his time to walk. “At first, I helped out with the setup/takedown of the event, then assisted with registration, and also cheered people on during volley-ball,” he says with a grin.
Next, he was involved in our summer kid’s camps which took place at Camp Manitou and Assiniboia. “We used to get a full week of training ahead of time,” he says. “I got a chance to meet a lot of wonderful kids,” he adds. The camps offered a wide-range of adaptive activities such as swimming, arts and crafts, archery, zip-lining, fishing, field games, etc. Scott said it was a lot of fun and was involved for 10 years before moving into the Adult Recreation and Leisure program.
At birth, Scott was diagnosed with a learning disability. “I grew up around people with learning or physical disabilities,” he says. Having an invisible disability made school challenging. “I found it very hard not only due to my disability but I was bullied as well.” Over time, the hardships he experienced morphed into compassion and kindness for others who had a disability as he began volunteering in high-school. “I can relate to the people I volunteer with,” he says. Scott also joined the Special Olympics track team and was passionate about running for many years “It was my most favourite thing to do.”
When asked why people should volunteer he answers confidently, “To give back is so important, and it feels good. Especially since SMD supported me for many years.” He highlights that SMD provides a safe environment where it feels good to be around people who actually care. “It helps when there is mutual respect and trust between myself, the supervisors and the clients.”
Due to so many wonderful experiences Scott’s had over the years, he wants to get the message out to future volunteers, “It’s a great organization that’s not just sports within the Recreation and Leisure program, but there are many other things to do. Come out and volunteer during Summer Breakout!” he exclaims.
Scott has also gained valuable skills through volunteering as well, “I’ve improved my communications skills with others, life skills such as cooking, public speaking, and just being encouraging of others while having fun and enjoying their company.”
When asked what his favourite part of volunteering is he says, “Everyone succeeding in their goals, having fun, being safe and communicating.”
Scott’s straight-to-the-point encouraging bit of advice to anyone considering volunteering is, “Go for it, it’s great” he laughs. “It’s never too late!”