At Kinbridge Community Association, we believe in the power of community. Our programs and services are designed to support and uplift individuals, fostering a stronger, more connected Cambridge. In our latest community spotlight, we sat down with Rose Bettio, who has been a dedicated coordinator at Kinbridge for seven years and previously spent twelve years at the food bank. We discussed her passion for volunteering, community recognition, and the impact of meaningful support.
The Role of Community Support
Rose finds joy in meeting new people and helping first-time volunteers get involved. “I love being able to have someone who has never volunteered before come in, see them grow, enjoy what they’re doing, and experience the reward we get from watching them learn,” she shared. Through programs at Kinbridge, volunteers not only give back to their community but also gain confidence, skills, and a sense of belonging.
The Power of Recognition
One of Rose’s favorite things to do is nominate volunteers for awards, and this year alone, she put forward 15 individuals for the Ontario Volunteer Service Award. When asked why recognition is so important, she said, “People donate their time to come and volunteer—being able to tell them what a great job they’ve done is a great thing to do.”
Acknowledging volunteers’ efforts shows appreciation and encourages more people to step forward, strengthening the sense of community.
A Volunteer’s Journey: Making a Difference
Rose has been a volunteer coordinator at Kinbridge for seven years. During this time, she has seen countless individuals walk through the doors, some hesitant and unsure, only to grow into confident and dedicated volunteers. She has witnessed volunteers form lasting friendships, develop new skills, and even use their experience as a stepping stone to employment. “Watching someone start out shy and uncertain, then seeing them thrive and take on leadership roles—it’s incredible,” she said. “Volunteering doesn’t just help the community; it transforms the volunteers themselves.”
A Volunteer’s Journey: Making a Difference
Rose shared the inspiring story of a young man in Grade 9 who struggled to find a volunteer opportunity due to his ADHD. He was given a chance to volunteer at Kinbridge, helping to fill water barrels. If a task became too challenging, or his schedule would change he communicated his needs and felt accommodated. Through this experience, he was able to complete his required school volunteer hours, gain confidence, and eventually secure a part-time job. Recently, he reconnected with Rose and told her, “No one would help me, but you did.”
Stories like this highlight the transformative impact of volunteering—not just for the community but for the individuals who take part.
Get Involved
Are you inspired to volunteer? Whether you’re new to volunteering or looking to get involved again, Kinbridge is here to support you! Fill out our volunteer form or reach out to Rose at RoseB@kinbridge.ca to learn more about how you can make a difference.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and updates from Kinbridge Community Association!