Giving Back with Heart: Vanessa Kasper's Volunteer Story of Impact
Published Monday, April 20, 2026
Pictured at the Women in Action wrap-up event this past March are Vanessa Kasper (left), a committee volunteer, and past Chair Natasha Zeleny. Inspired by her experiences, Vanessa gives back to help support patients and families.
As we celebrate National Volunteer Week this April, it's a time to recognize the individuals who strengthen our community through generosity and compassion. For one dedicated volunteer with the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation, giving back has become a meaningful way to connect, contribute, and create lasting impact.
Her journey began through her involvement with Women in Action, where she first learned more about the Foundation's mission and the people behind it. What stood out most was the passion of the team. “Their dedication and genuine commitment to improving healthcare in our community motivated me to volunteer alongside them,” she says. “It inspired me to get more involved and contribute in any way I could.”
For her, volunteering is about more than simply giving time—it's about purpose. “Volunteering means showing up for my community in a meaningful and intentional way,” she explains. “It's an opportunity to give back and be part of something bigger than myself.” She finds it especially rewarding to see how even small efforts can lead to real, positive change when people come together.
Like many volunteers, her connection to healthcare became deeply personal. This past summer, her daughter was admitted to the ICU—an experience that brought unexpected clarity. While navigating a difficult time, she witnessed the compassion and dedication of healthcare professionals firsthand. It also highlighted how important it is to continue improving patient care and supporting families during vulnerable moments. “It made me more aware of the importance of investing in healthcare, especially for children and families going through overwhelming experiences,” she shares.
That experience reinforced her belief in the importance of community support. “Without the support of our community, our hospital simply couldn't do what it does,” she explains. “Many people don't realize that government funding alone isn't enough to provide the level of care our patients deserve.” Through fundraising and advocacy, the Foundation plays a critical role in bridging that gap—helping ensure patients across Northwestern Ontario have access to the equipment, programs, and services they need.
One aspect of volunteering that continues to stand out to her is the people. “I'm always impressed by how caring and dedicated the Foundation team is,” she says. “They truly appreciate every donation, no matter the size.” She also notes that the Foundation's impact extends beyond Thunder Bay, supporting healthcare across the broader region.
When asked to describe her volunteer experience in three words, her answer is simple: rewarding, energizing, and meaningful.
Her advice to others considering volunteering is equally straightforward: get involved in something you care about. “It connects you with like-minded people, helps you build meaningful relationships, and gives you the chance to make a positive impact,” she says. “And you feel good doing it.”
This National Volunteer Week, her story is a reminder that volunteering is not just about giving back—it's about building stronger communities, supporting one another, and making a difference when it matters most.