As the newest member, I’ve been able to come in and experience the YACC team, the culture, and the organization itself with fresh eyes and a new perspective. All I can say is that I feel blessed and honoured to join this team.
I got to spend two weeks in St. John’s, which was an adventure in itself—I LOVE the Rock! But being welcomed so openly has made embarking on this new YACC adventure that much more exciting. How could I not want to work with this team? Each person brings unique abilities and talent to the table, which collectively create a powerhouse. And of course they are a hoot to boot.
Through my work and volunteering commitments I’ve realized that I love working with young adults, which makes YACC such a great fit. Maybe it is being a part of the demographic or just the fact that ours is a demographic which can sometimes be the hardest to understand. It’s probably a bit of both. Our needs, interests, and ways we communicate are unique. Rather than seeing this as a challenge, I see it as an opportunity to do things a little differently. YACC has both innovation and vision and I know the programs we offer make a huge difference because they have been developed specifically for young adult survivors.
My background is in communications and marketing and getting to be a part of the bigger picture and be a catalyst towards engaging people is why I love what I do. My work experience has taken me everywhere from the hospitality industry, to oil and gas, and real estate. But deep down I always knew I was meant to be in the nonprofit sector. I want my work to have a positive impact on the community/ies I’m a part of. This doesn’t mean just the Young Adult Cancer community, it also means being an integral part and contributor to Calgary, Alberta, and Canada.
Now back in Calgary I’m going to miss seeing the YACC family everyday. But I have a feeling I won’t be “lonely” for long. I get to connect with and build relationships with survivors and stakeholders throughout Western Canada! I can’t wait to start tooting the YACC horn, because it’s a great feeling knowing that what I do helps survivors move through and beyond their cancer experience in order to make the rest of their lives the best of their lives.
