Jennifer Bulcock is so committed to her organization the YMCA of the Southern Interior, that in addition to her work as Volunteer Engagement Manager, she also teaches fitness classes as a volunteer.

“I have the privilege of teaching two fitness classes each week to help participants reach their fitness goals,” explains Jennifer proudly. “I have been a volunteer for the past 1.5 years. I was a Health & Fitness Supervisor at the Y and when I moved into my new role doing the volunteer engagement, I wanted to stay connected to the people I have known through the fitness classes I taught. So now, I continue to teach as a volunteer.”

With Crofton on Vancouver Island as her hometown, Jennifer moved to the Okanagan in 2000. As a competitive swimmer for over 10 years and a lifeguard for over 22, Jennifer knows a lot about fitness and the positive impacts it has on people. She also recognizes the value of volunteering.

“I love to connect with the people in my classes by being a role model and show how volunteering is possible and fun,” she says. “I have learned that my actions of being a volunteer ignites a spark in others to consider or take the step to volunteer themselves.”

“When I was teaching one of my classes, I talked about my role at the Y and that I was volunteering to teach the class above the job I do,” continues Jennifer. “This planted the seed with one of the participants who has now become a volunteer aqua fitness instructor.”

If the Y seems like a place you want to share your time with, they have a variety of roles for you to consider. They want you to bring your passion and at least one hour a week and they will find a role that suits you. While volunteers with existing skills in aquatics, fitness, child minding and more, are always welcome, the Y promises to embrace your unique attributes that will elevate their programming and help build a healthier community.  Share your passions and skills with Jennifer through the online form (www.ymcasibc.ca/Join/Our-Team/Volunteer/Inquiry-Form) or contact her by email at jennifer.bulcock@ymcasibc.ca or call 250-491-9622 ext. 318.

“Volunteering is fun and fills my bucket,” enthuses Jennifer. “Volunteering can be very flexible with people’s schedules and the Y really has a variety of opportunities to explore.” In addition to volunteering herself, Jennifer also loves meeting new people and connecting them to opportunities within the Y and spending time with my family and friends.