Whistler Adaptive Sports Program volunteers are the backbone of our charity. They come from near and far, from a variety of backgrounds and with a host of different life experiences. All are united in their enthusiasm to get involved and support our goal of adapting the playground to make sport and physical recreation inclusive. Whether you live locally, visit seasonally or are travelling on holiday, we want to hear from you!
If you are considering volunteering read on in the first of our new ‘meet our volunteers’ series, to find out how Bryce, 35 years old the U.K came to hear about WAS and what he took away from the experience of supporting our coaches this summer.
How did you find out about volunteering with WAS?
I was fortunate enough to meet Jen the week I arrived in Squamish. We met through some mutual friends, got chatting and the next thing I knew she’d ‘roped’ me into volunteering at Alta Lake the next day! I say roped, but I joke, I was actually super happy and excited to offer my time and see what WAS is about!
What made you want to volunteer?
I’ve done numerous days volunteering before and this program sounded super interesting. I had plenty of time on my hands with being on holiday from the U.K and if I could help out, even in the most basic way to allow WAS’ Athletes enjoy the outdoors again, then it was something I would be very happy to do.
How long were you visiting the area?
I was in Squamish for a little over 3 weeks primarily for a holiday, but also a bit of a recce as I’m hoping to make the move to the area in 2025!
What was your experience like?
The minute I met Jen, I knew I would be getting a memorable and happy experience with the rest of the team going forward, along with having fun taking part volunteering. The days are so varied, you never quite know what to expect but as soon as you get stuck in, it all makes sense. I volunteered for a total of 4 days whilst I was in the area. 2 days on the water at Alta Lake helping to guide Athletes and clients through some basic Kayaking. A day on the trails with a few kids taking them biking around the forests below Alice Lake and then a day taking the trail rider bike up to the top of Whistler mountain!
Most memorable moment?
I think for me, it was taking Marta up to the top of Whistler mountain on the Trail Rider adapted bike. Not only was Marta just an all round amazing, interesting and funny human being, but to see her determination and her confidence to see the great outdoors again after her accident only a couple of years before, was truly inspiring and humbling. We navigated her down the lake loop from the Gondola which I can tell you, is no mean feat! It really shows what the capability of the equipment WAS has and the possibilities of future routes and adventures!
Biggest take away from your volunteering experience?
If you get a chance to volunteer for WAS, or for any other sports adaptive programs around the world, do it. You won’t regret your decision and you will be walking away knowing that you had a tiny little part in re-energising former abled athletes and helping them experience the sports they have their passions for again.