Did you know that volunteering is beneficial to both the community and your health?

A study conducted by the Corporation for National & Community Service (CNCS) found that by performing some sort of community service people generally experience a lower mortality rate, improved mental health and greater physical capabilities.

We’ve put one of our spectacular volunteers, Carole Levasseur, under the microscope to see if this checks out!

Carole first started volunteering with RMA in 2011 after searching for a charitable organization that combines her giving nature and love for skiing.

“In December 2011 I was looking for a volunteer opportunity where I could feel useful while skiing; a perfect world for me! So I found Rocky Mountain Adaptive (RMA) online!  The help they needed was to ski with people who were keen and enthusiastic (and might need a little extra help)!  I had no clue about if, and how I could help.  I had no idea at that point that my perspective on life was about to change. “

After shaking off the nerves at volunteer training Carole was a natural fit with RMA. Her willingness to tackle new challenges, no matter how intimidating they may be, made her the perfect match for our adaptive participants!

“The volunteer training provided by RMA was great; it was easy going and fun! The staff members were committed to helping volunteers every step of the way.  I learnt so much on that first day!  And still learning! !”

The number of non-for-profit charity organizations and charities within Canada doing amazing work is staggering.  There are over 170,000 organizations across every province providing vital services to multiple communities. We asked Carole why RMA has been her organization of choice every year.

“Over several years I have been involved in both summer and winter activities with RMA.  Every experience I’ve had so far has been filled with wonderful memories and fun. I’ve shared tears of joy with participants who thought they were never going to experience the mountains!” 

What makes an organization unique? Is it the people?  The extraordinary service provided? Or its ability to have an extraordinary impact on a person’s life that can resonate throughout the whole community? For Carole it’s a combination of all these elements and more that makes RMA stand out from all the rest.

 “One of the unique things about RMA is their ability to help people achieve things they never thought they would be able to. It is something that not only the participant, but also family and friends get to enjoy.  You see such personal growth in participants from just one day on the mountain.” 

When asked about her favourite moments so far with RMA Carole found it difficult to pick just one.  She is continually in awe of the incredible things a group of determined volunteers can accomplish and the milestones participants have achieved throughout their lives.

“ I have really enjoyed seeing the amazing feats accomplished by the outstanding group of volunteers at RMA. I remember in 2017 being part of a huge team-building event of 120 new volunteers from the US. We helped 25 participants enjoy either hiking, kayaking, biking and rafting. It was a remarkable sight; everyone worked together to provide an unforgettable day for everyone involved. “