By Crystal Carson

Giving back is a big part of my life. I have been doing a fundraising walk for Nanaimo Hospice for twenty-five years and volunteering at the Good Food Box for twenty-three years.

I began fundraising for hospice because it helped me deal with grief over the loss of my parents.

Knowing that the money I raise goes toward helping people during the hardest times in their life means a lot to me.

I started volunteering at the Good Food Box because of my own experience. Being on a fixed income, I know firsthand how hard it is to afford healthy food. I wanted to help myself and others have access to affordable fruits and vegetables. The Good Food Box makes that possible for people with low incomes.

Both causes are close to my heart. One started because I understood what it felt like to struggle to put food on the table. The other is about being there for people during their most difficult times. Both are about providing care and dignity to others. I know I am making a difference.

Volunteering also gives back to me. Through volunteering, I have made new friends, kept active in the community and built my confidence and skills that have even helped me find employment.

I hope my story encourages others to find ways to give back too. You do not have to do something big or be perfect at it. You just have to care and show up. Even small acts of kindness can add up to something big over time. I know that from my own experience.