2023 National Volunteer Week

In recognition of National Volunteer Week, As York staff took the opportunity to interview one of the Aurora DAY programs longest serving volunteers. During COVID, the DAY program was restricted and accepting volunteer support was challenging. It's exciting to welcome back volunteers and once again recognize those who volunteer with AS York programs for the 2023 national volunteer recognition activities.

Volunteer Profile

Name: Nupur Krishnan

Occupation: Student

AS York volunteer role: Volunteer in the Aurora DAY program

How long have you volunteered in the day program?
I have been volunteering with the DAY program since 2015.

What tasks do you undertake as a volunteer in our DAY program?
While volunteering, I support various activities run within the Day program, including leading the group game, assisting with trivia, and supporting the sing-alongs. I also spend time having conversations with and interacting with the clients one-on-one to engage with them. In addition, I have helped in the development and delivery of the DAISY workshop (Dementia and Alzheimer’s Information Session for Youth) and have served on the Walk for Alzheimer’s planning committee.

What inspired you to volunteer?
A family member of mine was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease several years ago. I remember being struck by how isolating the diagnosis was for the relative and the rest of the family. I was also amazed to see the lengths that family and friends would go to in order to provide care for this relative. When I heard about the Day Program, it sounded like a great way for people with dementia to socialize and receive support while providing respite for caregivers. There was an opening to get involved here and I jumped at the opportunity.

How does volunteering for ASYR align with your values and goals?
I am passionate about pursuing a future career providing care for and working with vulnerable populations. Volunteering at ASYR gives me the opportunity to meet new people from all walks of life and serve my community in a positive way.

I am currently completing a master’s in science in Global Health at McMaster University, with a focus on Health Management, and am really enjoying learning more about health equity, social determinants of health, global markets, and resource allocation in healthcare, among other topics. Before this, I completed a thesis-based bachelor’s degree in medical sciences (BMSc) at Western University, with an honours specialization in Physiology.

What do you enjoy best about volunteering?
I love the opportunity to create connections with clients and learn more about them on a personal level. My favourite parts of the day are when I am able to share a special connection with a client and see the spark in their eyes, either through conversation, music, or just spending time together. I am also inspired by my other dedicated co-volunteers and staff who radiate positivity and selflessness.

A note from the team at AS York
Thank you, Nupur, not for just sharing your experience as a volunteer at AS York, but for the many years you have poured your energy into supporting our DAY program clients.  AS York clients benefit from your desire to connect with them and build relationships that are meaningful. We feel fortunate to have worked with you as a high school student and watched you develop your interests, academic pursuits and future career in global health.  We are so fortunate to have you as a volunteer.