At the Humber River Health Foundation, we’re inspired every day by our incredible volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to supporting our mission. One such individual is Agasthya, a high school student whose path—from a co-op placement to volunteering with the Foundation—reflects the incredible impact of curiosity, determination, and a passion for making a difference.

“Helping patients, meeting new people, and being part of such a positive experience made me want to come back and volunteer with the Foundation over the summer.”

Agasthya’s connection to Humber River Health started with a high school co-op placement. Though he initially applied to volunteer with the Foundation, he was placed in the hospital’s gift shop.

“I really enjoyed the environment at Humber River Health,” he shared. “Helping patients, meeting new people, and being part of such a positive experience made me want to come back and volunteer with the Foundation over the summer.”

His enthusiasm and dedication didn’t go unnoticed. When the opportunity arose to join the Foundation as a summer volunteer, Agasthya jumped at the chance.

During his time with the Foundation, Agasthya contributed to a variety of projects, from assisting with the annual Awesome Invitational Golf Tournament to digitizing donor records. His willingness to take on new challenges made him an invaluable part of the volunteer team.

One of his favorite tasks was organizing and preparing Gifts of Gratitude for doctors, nurses and staff. “I enjoyed running up to different departments to deliver the gifts,” he said. “It was a great way to connect with the hospital staff and learn more about how the hospital operates.”

Agasthya also played a key role in donor communications, making calls to thank supporters and share updates on the Foundation’s work. What started as a nerve-wracking task quickly became one of his favourite responsibilities.

“At first, I was nervous about calling donors,” he admitted. “But by the end, I really enjoyed it. Hearing their stories and understanding why they support the hospital was so fulfilling.”

Volunteering at the Foundation wasn’t just about completing tasks—it was a learning experience that shaped Agasthya in unexpected ways. He gained valuable insights into office dynamics, project management, and teamwork, skills he carried into his next co-op placement at an electrical engineering company.

Perhaps the most significant lesson was the confidence he gained in connecting with people. “Volunteering taught me how to work with different personalities and manage different situations,” he reflected. “It’s a skill I’ve used in other areas of my life, like reaching out to sponsors for my high school’s robotics team.”

Agasthya’s time at the Foundation may have ended, but his journey is just beginning. Currently in grade 12, he’s applying to competitive engineering programs. His dream is to combine his love for engineering with his interest in finance, potentially pursuing an MBA in the future.

Agasthya’s story is a reminder of the impact volunteering can have—not just on the organization, but on the volunteer themselves. His dedication, curiosity, and drive are an inspiration to us all, and we’re incredibly grateful for the time and energy he gave to the Foundation.

As he prepares to embark on his university journey, we know Agasthya will continue to make a difference in the world. Thank you, Agasthya, for sharing your story with us. We can’t wait to see what you accomplish next!

Become a Volunteer

Becoming a volunteer at Humber River Health Foundation is a rewarding way to give back to your community and make a meaningful impact. Whether you’re assisting with events, supporting administrative tasks, or engaging with donors, your time and effort will help us create a healthier community for all. Become a volunteer today and be part of something truly special!