National Volunteer Week 2026 (April 19–25): Ignite Volunteerism
Published Monday, April 20, 2026
(L-R) Mary Anne Fossum, Judy Ekholm, Larry Bryan and Cathy Britt are among the many dedicated volunteers at the Health Sciences Centre being celebrated during National Volunteer Week 2026 (April 19–25)
During National Volunteer Week 2026 (April 19–25), the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation are celebrating the dedicated volunteers who help enhance the patient and family experience every day. This year's theme from Volunteer Canada, Ignite Volunteerism, recognizes the power of volunteerism to inspire connection, compassion and community impact.
Knowing that their contributions are valued and meaningful gives volunteers a strong sense of purpose and dedication. Whether offering a listening ear to an inpatient, serving a cup of tea to someone receiving chemotherapy, or providing a warm welcome and wayfinding assistance at the main entrance, each act of kindness contributes to the overall wellness of our community — today and for future generations.
Volunteers play an important role in supporting Patient and Family Centred Care at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation. They serve in many capacities, including as Hospital and Foundation volunteers and as Patient Family Advisors (PFAs).
At the Hospital, volunteers support patients and families in a variety of ways. Some serve in patient-facing roles on inpatient units, while others assist outpatients through hospitality and transport services. Volunteers also provide administrative support, help in reception and greeting roles, assist with fundraising through the Seasons Gift Shop, and share their talents through music and gardening programs.
If you are interested in volunteering at the Hospital, visit www.tbrhsc.net and explore the Join our Team section to apply online and learn more. You can also email TBRHSC.Volunteering@tbh.net or call 807-684-6267.
Patient Family Advisors (PFAs) are volunteers who draw on their personal healthcare experiences to share valuable perspectives on how hospital services affect patients and families.
PFAs help ensure that the patient voice is heard. As partners in care, they provide input into the policies, programs and practices that shape the services our Hospital delivers. By working alongside staff and healthcare providers, PFAs help us better meet the needs and priorities of our patients, families and community.
To learn more about becoming a Patient Family Advisor, visit our website, call 807-684-7322, or email TBRHSC.PFCC@tbh.net.
Volunteers are also essential to the success of the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation. They support the Foundation by providing administrative assistance, helping with special events, and selling raffle tickets at locations throughout the region.
To become a Foundation volunteer, call 807-345-4673 or email volunteers@healthsciencesfoundation.ca.
Volunteers are the backbone of our organizations and an essential link to the community. Their generosity, compassion and commitment help make the patient and family experience better in countless ways.
As we celebrate National Volunteer Week 2026, we thank all of the volunteers who make a difference every day. This week, and throughout the year, we recognize the collective impact of volunteerism and the many ways volunteers help strengthen and connect our community.
Thank you, volunteers!