Kaitlyn Suzuki has been a volunteer with the Nicola Valley Health Care Auxiliary for over six months.

Her grandmother, who has volunteered with the Auxiliary for many years, inspired her to get involved.

After hearing a presentation at her high school this past winter from an Auxiliary member about youth volunteer opportunities, she decided to apply for a volunteer position. Kaitlyn has been an active volunteer within the community since she was in Grade 9, as it keeps her busy and is something she enjoys doing.

Acrylic painting by Kaitlyn Suzuki. (Submitted photo)

Acrylic painting by Kaitlyn Suzuki. (Submitted photo)

In addition to the Auxiliary, she has volunteered with the Asset Committee, Smart Step, and Student Council. Kaitlyn is currently finishing Grade 12 and is looking forward to attending university next year, pursuing a degree in engineering. She is also a passionate artist who enjoys drawing and acrylic painting.

Kaitlyn enjoys seeing the outcome of volunteering and knowing that the work that she did resulted in a benefit to someone or something.

When asked why she thinks other youth should get involved in volunteering, this was her response: “I think it is important for youth to be involved in volunteering because it not only benefits the community, but also themselves.

“Youth can have such a huge impact on the world, and I think they should strive to do the best they can. Volunteering also can benefit them.

“It teaches them life skills, helps them develop important contacts, can help them earn scholarships, and gives them a great feeling, knowing that they’re helping others.”

– Submitted by the Nicola Valley Health Care Auxiliary