Meet our Volunteers

Making Waves of Compassion at RMH BC & Yukon

Our volunteers are the heart of our community, creating ripples of kindness that touch every family who walks through our doors. This National Volunteer Week (April 27 – May 3), we celebrate the incredible individuals who dedicate their time, energy, and compassion to making RMH BC & Yukon a home away from home.

This year’s theme, Volunteers Make Waves, perfectly reflects the lasting impact of our volunteers. Whether they’re preparing meals, organizing activities, or offering a warm smile, their dedication creates waves of comfort and support for families facing medical challenges. Join us in recognizing the power of volunteering and the difference it makes—one ripple at a time. Thank you to all our volunteers for your unwavering kindness and generosity!

Volunteers Making Waves: Jennifer & Bob Gardner

Jennifer and Bob Gardner have seen firsthand the impact of RMH BC & Y—both as dedicated volunteers and as Housewarmers. Their monthly giving ensures families can count on a warm, welcoming place to stay during their child’s medical journey.

“We just see the power of what RMH BC & Y does. So, we decided to become monthly donors to have some involvement. We understand the financial stability that’s required to keep these kinds of commitments to families, as opposed to once a year.” – Jennifer & Bob Gardner

Meet The Gardners

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In 2024, 336 regular volunteers contributed 5,924 hours to help serve our families! ”

Meet Dewey: Making Waves and Warm Meals with Heart

Mike started as a volunteer for RMH BC’s annual A Night to Dream Gala and wanted to do more for RMH BC. That same week, he called the House and offered to volunteer as a Family Meal Host. His positive attitude and winning smile helps welcome and guide the groups who dedicate their time and resources to cook a meal for every family staying in the House.

Diane first got involved with RMH BC over 30 years ago as a participant in the annual Vancouver Invitational Golf Tournament and has been involved as a committee member helping raise funds to support the House ever since.

Jenny has been a volunteer for the Family Room in Surrey Memorial Hospital for over two years and has enjoyed making a difference in the lives of families. Her drive to keep volunteering is seeing the relief in the faces of families when entering the welcoming space of the Family Room.

Making Waves Since January 2025

After staying at the Ronald McDonald Family Room in Surrey in 2022 following the birth of her daughter, Darya knew she wanted to give back. Whether she’s baking muffins, preparing snacks, or tidying up the space, Darya brings warmth and care to every shift—often remembered by families who appreciate her familiar, friendly presence.

“I’ve learned that sometimes visitors just need someone to listen. A clean towel, a banana muffin, or a smile can go a long way,” she shares. “RMH BC was there for me when I needed it—and now I get to be there for someone else.”

Making Waves Since September 2023

Loretta has quickly become a vital part of our Wednesday Night Project Crew. What began years ago with a friend’s invitation to help cook meals has grown into a meaningful weekly commitment filled with friendship, laughter, and purpose.

For Loretta, the magic of RMH BC & Yukon lies not just in what she gives, but what she receives. “I get so much more back for myself than I feel I give,” she shares. From crafting friendship bracelets at Taylor Swift Night to cheering on a surprise performance, she treasures the joy and connection that volunteering brings to everyone involved.

It’s the people—families, staff, and especially her fellow Wednesday night volunteers—that keep Loretta coming back. “We’ve become great friends,”.

Making Waves Since January 2020

With over 1,000 hours, Leslie has become a steady and compassionate presence at RMH BC & Yukon. Her love of children and her desire to brighten their days fuel her commitment to creating a space where families feel supported and cared for.

One moment that stands out for Leslie was when a young girl undergoing treatment began to follow her during dinner setup. When the child asked to help, Leslie handed her a folded tablecloth—an act of kindness the little girl talked about all week, her mother later shared. “It’s the kids who keep me motivated,” Leslie says. “They’re so strong and amazing, even with everything they’re going through.”

Full of smiles every time he enters the House, Dewey looks forward to the few hours he spends each week volunteering as a Family Meal Host. A memorable moment came during his second shift, when he was still getting acclimatized to RMH BC & Yukon. In the middle of prepping the kitchen for an incoming group, a girl took his hand and proclaimed that they were going to find Nemo. And off they went!