In the “Through Their Windows” series, presented by TELUS, we are showcasing uplifting and inspiring stories about how the people of Vancouver are spreading kindness and staying connected while maintaining physical distancing in their homes during COVID-19.
Nancy McCurrach has been a proud employee of TELUS for three decades now. Her alignment with what she calls “a giving company with a big heart” is due in large part to Nancy’s own involvement with her community as an active volunteer.
When the pandemic first began, Nancy found herself missing the social interactions she had when volunteering. Acting upon her strong desire to fill this void, she decided to lend her support to a very worthy cause.
“Right now, we are advised to stay home. How can those without homes go home when they have no home to go to? I have chosen to become more connected with the homeless and those most vulnerable during COVID-19.”
“Tri-City Reach City Care Society connected me to a group of volunteers in the community from Broadway Church in Port Coquitlam that feed approximately 40 homeless or those in need in the Tri-Cities on a daily basis. On Sundays, I join the volunteer group to make sandwiches and bagged lunches to go. Later we transport the lunches to Lions’ Park, where volunteers hand out the lunches and interact with guests.”
Volunteers also set a solid example of following public health recommendations when volunteering.
“Volunteers abide by safe COVID-19 standards protocol, such as respecting social distancing at all times and wearing provided protective gear such as gloves (for anyone handling food) and a face mask. At the park, there are ground markers for guests lining up for food pick-up and tables are spaced out as well.
Nancy also volunteers with the Soroptimists International of the Tri-Cities Club, where she has been a member for the past five years, in support of women and children in need. Currently, her club is helping with producing gowns for medical professionals, with over 300+ gowns made so far. Nancy is looking forward to getting involved in even more volunteer opportunities, such as an upcoming mobile food bank for families in need in Port Coquitlam.
Nancy McCurrach. Photo: Good Side Photo
For Nancy, giving back during the pandemic has enriched her life in a multitude of ways. For one, she finds that volunteering brings comfort to the community during a time of crisis.
“The biggest thing for everyone right now is that nobody feels comfortable. When life is turned upside down, we see how resilient people are when the rug is pulled out underneath them. As volunteers, we can help one another handle this situation and find ease by helping each other know they’re not alone and we’re all here to help. We can connect people to the right resources when they’re ready to seek assistance. The important thing is to help remind people that there are people in their community to talk to and to support them through these challenges.”
During a time of social distancing, volunteering generates genuine care for and connections with others, and provides a kind reminder that we’re all in this together.
“Volunteering grounds us to feeling connected when we feel disconnected, and a passion for community will ignite in your soul. You wake up feeling inspired about how you can make a positive difference in someone else’s life and look forward to who you will meet that day. You can have connections with all types of people, develop new and different relationships, and make friends for life. It is one of the best ways to combat loneliness or emotional struggles. When a unified community comes together, we are unbreakable!”
It is through volunteering that we gain perspective of what’s truly important during a moment of great change and deep reflection in our world.
“Serving those in the community that are the most vulnerable has an impact on how you see the world. These cherished interactions have a way of making a profound difference on one’s moral values and outlook on life. You begin to look more deeply into your own purpose on this planet and what is really important and what is not. We realize that this pandemic is not forever, it’s only for a short time, which is a valuable lesson in not taking anything for granted.”
Nancy encourages those who want to volunteer to start now.
“Each person can make a difference in the lives of those who are hurting in our community. Do consider showing the purest love imaginable at such a difficult time for so many by volunteering in your community.”
This series has been kindly presented by TELUS. Did you know that they’re waiving home internet overage charges during COVID-19 to help you #stayconnected? Learn more at telus.com/covid19
