CFN Volunteer Spotlight: Liliya Gonchar

The United Nations has proclaimed 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY 2026) to celebrate the power of volunteerism in driving the 2030 Agenda, fostering community resilience, and strengthening global solidarity; themed "Every Contribution Matters" and officially launching on December 5, 2025, IVY 2026 aims to recognize and promote both formal and informal volunteering as crucial to creating inclusive, sustainable societies, focusing on rebuilding volunteer infrastructure, strengthening civic participation, and highlighting volunteer contributions to climate action, poverty eradication, and social inclusion, while national initiatives like Canada’s "Ignite Volunteerism" seek to reconnect citizens with their communities and elevate the visibility of volunteer impact.

Today we highlight CFN Volunteer Liliya Gonchar.

Why did you choose to volunteer?

I wanted to give back to my community, meet new people, and use my skills in a way that could genuinely help others. Volunteering has also been a wonderful opportunity to learn, gain new experience, and be part of something meaningful.

What do you gain personally from being a volunteer?

For me, volunteering is about knowing that I can make someone’s day a little easier. Sometimes even a small act of help or a friendly conversation can make a difference. I enjoy meeting people, hearing their stories, and being able to offer support when they need it. Volunteering also helps me feel more connected to the community and the people around me.

Why is volunteering important for the City of Calgary as a whole?

I believe volunteers help make Calgary a stronger, more welcoming, and more connected city. Everyone brings something different — their time, skills, experience, and willingness to help. This allows organizations to support more people and provide valuable services to the community. I think it is these individual contributions that come together to create a caring and supportive community.

Why did you choose to volunteer at the Centre for Newcomers?

I chose the Centre for Newcomers because I really connect with its mission of helping people feel more confident and comfortable in Calgary and find their place in a new community. I wanted to do something practical that could make a real difference in people’s lives.

I especially enjoy being able to greet someone with a smile, listen to them, and help make their experience with the organization as comfortable as possible. It has been a very meaningful and rewarding experience for me.

Tell us a little bit about yourself – where are you from? Where do you live? What are your interests, hobbies, activities, etc.?

I have been living in Calgary for about three years, and I really enjoy discovering new places and having new experiences. These days, I am especially enjoying exploring Canada and discovering its incredible natural beauty — from the mountains and lakes to the many beautiful places across the country.

I love travelling, exploring new cities, and discovering different cultures. I am also very interested in the arts — I enjoy going to the theatre and listening to classical music.

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Volunteer with CFN and be part of creating a welcoming environment for newcomers to Canada. Contribute your time, share your skills, and create meaningful relationships as you develop a stronger social network and gain a deeper appreciation of Calgary’s diverse culture.

Visit www.centrefornewcomers.ca/volunteer, scan the QR code and click register to enter the CFN Volunteer Portal. Sign up, scroll down, use our detailed filtering options, and find what suits you best! For more information contact Jennifer at j.young@centrefornewcomers.ca