During National Volunteer Month we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the remarkable volunteers who have significantly contributed to our Leaders of Tomorrow program, leaving an mark on the lives of participating youth. Their unwavering commitment has empowered us to impart valuable lessons on effective communication, thus mitigating instances of physical altercations.
This month we recognize the leadership of Ruth Edelstein and Alex Nanan, whose collective service spans between 5 to 10 years. Dive into their inspiring narratives below.
Meet Alex
How many years have you been volunteering with Peacebuilders?
I have been volunteering with Peacebuilders Canada for a little over four years now! I completed the training in February of 2020.
What are your highlights volunteering at Peacebuilders?
What I love about volunteering at Peacebuilders is getting to know each youth I work with. I enjoy making a positive impact on young people’s lives during a time that is difficult for them and their families. Every case I receive from the courts gives me an opportunity to learn about the young person in a way that is not limited to solely their charges. In this role, I appreciate the diversity in each client I work with. Each youth has their own story and background that should never go unnoticed during the court process. Volunteering at Peacebuilders Canada in my role allows me to connect with youth, further learn about the challenges they may face and talk them through their charges. I find it very rewarding to be in a position where I can positively influence vulnerable youth and assist them with getting their charges withdrawn. I tell many of the youth I have worked with that their contact with the criminal justice system is not the end.
What advice would you give to future Peacebuilders volunteers?
The advice I would give to future Peacebuilders volunteers is to keep an open mind and to not have tunnel vision and focusing on just the young person’s charges. The goal is to understand the youth, not the other way around. This role requires building rapport and trust with the youth you are working with and the only way that can be established is by giving respect and having a non-judgemental approach when addressing their charges and situation. There will be a lot you don’t know until you hear the youth’s perspective. That is why it is important to show humility, give respect and appreciate the young person’s differences.
Meet Ruth
How many years have you been volunteering with Peacebuilders?
I’ve been a Circle Keeper with Peacebuilders for over ten years.
What are your highlights volunteering at Peacebuilders?
I cherish memories of connecting meaningfully with young people and other volunteers in Circles. The spark of mutual understanding resonates and reverberates beyond our time together.
What advice would you give to future Peacebuilders volunteers?
Use Peacebuilders’ values as touchstones for your Circle themes and stay creative as you choose quotes and questions to shape your conversations. Help young people understand themselves better, and be open to learning something new about yourself. Consider that your experiences with Peacebuilders can be an excellent base from which to promote Restorative Practices more widely.
We extend our deepest appreciation to Ruth, Alex, and all the volunteers who have generously dedicated their time and effort over the years. Each volunteer’s dedication embodies the spirit of compassion and service, leaving an enduring legacy of positive impact within our community.
