Volunteer Appreciation Day
Today, we honour those who believe in all work and no pay.
Find out what moves them to take action.
Hear how they give, but get more in return.
Listen to their stories below and be inspired to start making a difference in our community.
Supported By
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VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION DAY: Steve Csamer
Steve Csamer is retired. He at one time worked at CFB Kingston in a civilian role. He currently volunteers at Partners in Mission Food Bank twice a week. Steve's role at the food bank is to help customers pick out the food that they need. He has been volunteering at the food bank for over 20 years. Steve sat down with Ken Hashizume to talk about his volunteer experience, why he does it, and how it makes him feel.
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VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION DAY: Evelyn Maizen
Evelyn Maizen has been volunteering for over 20 years. She spent eight years on the board of the University Hospitals Kingston Foundation. During the last three years, two were as chair and one as past-chair. Evelyn is currently on the board of Independent Living Kingston. She shares her experience as a volunteer board member and what she gets out it. Listen to Evelyn's interview with Ken Hashizume by clicking on the player below.
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VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION DAY: Allan Scott
Retired public servant continues to give back through civic service and community leadership in Kingston. Allan Scott has spent a lifetime in public service, and retirement has only expanded his commitment to the Kingston community. A retired Ontario Public Service executive, Scott began his career as a police officer in Toronto before moving into senior public service leadership roles. He now lives in Kingston with his wife, where his family continues a tradition of service through his son’s role at CFB Kingston.
Allan Scott spoke with Alyssa Brush about his volunteer work and ongoing role in public service.
Story by Alyssa Brush
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VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION DAY: Vicki Keith
Vicki Keith is internationally recognized as one of the greatest marathon swimmers of all time — and equally respected for her lifelong commitment to inclusion and accessible sport. A multi–world record athlete, Keith has set 16 world records and earned more than 41 awards and honours, including induction into the Terry Fox Hall of Fame and the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame. After retiring from professional marathon swimming, Keith turned her focus to coaching and advocacy. She went on to coach more than 20 athletes with disabilities to the national level. Today, Keith continues that mission as an inclusion advocate with BGC Southeast, supporting staff training, community outreach, and more inclusive programming. Vicki Keith sat down with Alyssa Brush to discuss her ongoing work to build inclusive and accessible opportunities in sport.
Story by Alyssa Brush
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VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION DAY: Joanne Langlois
For decades, Joanne Langlois has been a driving force behind community-building efforts across Kingston and the surrounding region. A long-time volunteer with United Way Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington, Langlois has dedicated more than 30 years to supporting initiatives that help people live with dignity, hope, and a sense of belonging. In 2024, Langlois served as United Way KFL&A’s Campaign Chair, leading the organization’s annual fundraising campaign and working closely with volunteers, community leaders, and partners to build on the success of previous years. Her commitment to the community extends beyond United Way. Langlois has also been involved with Hockey Helps the Homeless, supporting efforts to raise funds and awareness for organizations addressing homelessness and food insecurity. In addition, she is an active member of Women United, a global United Way network that brings together women committed to creating meaningful, lasting change through leadership and philanthropy. Joanne Langlois spoke with Alyssa Brush about what continues to drive her commitment to making a difference in the community.
Story by Alyssa Brush
