Local Calgary resident Salim Kassam loves to give back to his community.
In 2014 Salim was diagnosed with Ushers Syndrome, a genetic disease that affects both hearing and sight. It was then that he originally connected with CNIB for support – and quickly fell in love with the community and cause.
It was only a year later that he started working as a volunteer, as he found himself looking for new ways to stay engaged and give back to his local community. While Salim has taken on many different roles, most recently, he’s been lending a hand in the CNIB SmartLife Centre and at reception.
“I love being able to talk to people – to be able to help them out,” he explains. “Maybe they’ve had a rough day, and it brings me so much joy to know that even something as simple as a friendly conversation can turn someone’s day around. I always try to make sure everyone leaves feeling heard – and hopefully with a smile on their face, too.”
Alongside lending a hand at the Calgary office, Salim also sees his work as a volunteer as an opportunity to engage in advocacy and educating in his local community.
“Over the years, I’ve had a lot of people come up to me and ask about my white cane, which comes with me everywhere of course,” Salim says. “Volunteering with CNIB has really helped me find more opportunities to learn, to share my story and to educate others.”
If Salim’s story inspires you to volunteer, 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