CNIB Lake Joe is lucky to have long-time volunteers, but not many are like Jess Bailey. She has been volunteering at CNIB Lake Joe for most of her life!
Jess first came to CNIB Lake Joe in 1994 as part of an external group that was hosted at CNIB Lake Joe. She was less than 10 years old at that time and fell in love with the locale. She remembers becoming pen pals with a Lake Joe counselor and made a best-friend-for-life with a girl named Katie. Life at camp was awesome and she didn’t want it to end.
When Jess was about to age out of the children’s program she was attending at Lake Joe, she decided to become a volunteer. Even though Jess was not initially familiar with the sight loss community, she knew she wanted to stay connected with the amazing people she had met through CNIB Lake Joe. As a young volunteer, she joined the Lake Joe team to help guests with their baggage, assist in the tuck shop, and lend a hand wherever she could.
And she hasn’t stopped. Twenty-three years later, Jess reports having done everything at CNIB Lake Joe – in-person and online – except for lifeguarding and driving the boat. Affectionately known as “Drummer Jess”, she loves running drum circles for the guests. “When we’re drumming together, you feel the bass and get to share your energy back and forth,” she explains. “There’s a call and return back and forth that builds momentum and really brings members of the group together.”
Making guests feel included and involved is something that Jess takes very seriously. “I pay attention to people who are new or shy to welcome them and make sure they’re having a good time,” Jess explains. She recalls one guest who was new to CNIB Lake Joe and dealing with a significant, sudden sight loss. During that week she saw him totally open up to meeting new people and becoming comfortable in the community. “That’s the magic of camp, the energy of camp!” Jess explains. “Meeting new friends, saying hi to old friends, and participating in new activities. I learn so much from the guests.”
If Jessica’s story inspires you volunteer with CNIB, apply today!
Did you know?
While many of our volunteers come with the lived experience of sight loss, you don’t have to be a member of the blind or low vision community to volunteer with us.
Whether you’re interested in supporting an in-person event, volunteering your time and expertise with our Board of Directors, or if you’re simply passionate about one of our programs, there’s truly something for everyone.
To learn more or apply today, visit cnib.ca/volunteer.