Volunteer Symposium 2026
Our 8th annual Volunteer Symposium welcomed keynote speaker Hope Swinimer, who pioneered wildlife rehabilitation in Nova Scotia over 30 years ago. Attendees were inspired by her story and the establishment of the Hope For Wildlife Centre, which now aids wildlife across the province.
Sessions featured engaging workshops, including "ReWire, ReFire, Inspire," led by Kym Hume, focusing on discovering personal passions and overcoming barriers. Another notable session, "AI Powered Marketing," presented by Shaun Whynacht, introduced small organizations to practical AI tools for enhancing marketing efforts.
More than 30 years ago, there was no such thing as a wildlife rehabilitation centre in Nova Scotia. Hope Swinimer set out to change that and the way people treat wild animals. She began helping them one-by-one, using a room in her house and a few cages in the backyard.
Fast forward to today, wildlife from across Nova Scotia is triaged and helped at the Hope For Wildlife Centre. Hope’s tenacity and dedication enabled her to overcome longstanding barriers and change the way we think and care about wild animals.
In the afternoon, participants explored vital topics such as managing volunteer stress and co-generational volunteering, led by experienced facilitators. Richard Bridge provided insights on recent legal changes affecting charities, fostering a deeper understanding of the nonprofit landscape.
Overall, the event was a resounding success, equipping attendees with valuable knowledge and inspiration to further their missions in the community.