I just want to help: Understanding the Problematic Roots of Volunteerism and Moving Forward with Compassion

I just want to help: Understanding the Problematic Roots of Volunteerism and Moving Forward with Compassion

The desire to help others can be a powerful motivation to volunteer, but when that desire is rooted in pity and paternalism, or a need to save someone seen as less fortunate, it can do more harm than good. In this session, volunteer leaders will be introduced to how the principles of white supremacy culture show up in volunteerism and will be encouraged to reflect on what they can do to disrupt harmful practices.

Presented by Faiza Venzant, CVA

Temecula, California, USA
Executive Director, CCVA

From a young age, Faiza Venzant's parents instilled a strong sense of volunteerism in herself and her two older brothers. They, as immigrants to Canada from Uganda in the early 70s made a successful transition into Canadian life with the help of many generous volunteers. A volunteer herself from a very young age, she has been an advocate for volunteer engagement and leaders of volunteers for the last 20 years speaking, facilitating and continually learning from others internationally.  Faiza is an active member of Volunteer Management Professionals of Canada (VMPC) and Association for Leaders in Volunteer Engagement (AL!VE.) In 2020, Faiza was the recipient of TAVA’s Innovation Award.  In 2019, she was the recipient of the inaugural IMPACT award in Canada for Exemplary Volunteer Leadership. From PAVR-O, she received  the Linda Buchanan Award in 2013 and has twice received the President's Award.  

Faiza is passionate about equity and access amongst volunteers and leaders of volunteers.   She believes strongly that a community with a thriving volunteer base improves the overall quality of life and health of all its members. 

In 2018, Faiza published her first children’s book entitled, My Mamma Wants to Eat Me Up!  As a mother of two young boys, she has not actually eaten any of her children.

Join us on Thursday, September 28, at 10:00 a.m. on Zoom (link will be sent to registered attendees)!