The United Nations General Assembly has proclaimed 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers! To celebrate, we're highlighting a different RCRG volunteer each month. We hope that their inspiring stories help to Ignite Volunteerism in our community and encourage you to start your own volunteer journey.
Wayne Gibson’s volunteer journey spans decades, beginning in 1985 with the Canadian Ski Patrol, in Ontario. Over the years, his commitment to giving back has taken many forms - from serving three years on the national board of the Canadian Engineering Memorial Foundation to spending six years with the Richmond Gateway Theatre Society, including three as Vice Chair. Each experience has strengthened his appreciation for how volunteer leadership can support organizations and bring communities together.
After retiring four years ago, Wayne saw an opportunity to give back in a new and meaningful way. With more time on his hands, he joined RCRG as a Volunteer Driver for our Better at Home program, quickly discovering just how impactful this role could be. For Wayne, it’s the people he meets along the way that make volunteering so rewarding. The conversations, the gratitude, and the simple moments of connection all contribute to a sense of purpose that he finds both heartwarming and fulfilling.
In his Volunteer Driver role, Wayne helps seniors get to medical appointments, community activities, and social programs - providing not just transportation, but a sense of ease and reliability. His support helps reduce stress and allows those he assists to remain active and connected within the community. Knowing he’s making someone’s day a little easier is what continues to motivate him.
One of Wayne’s most memorable experiences highlights the impact of even the smallest gestures. A client he regularly drives speaks primarily Cantonese and greets him each morning in her language. Wanting to connect, Wayne learned how to say “Good morning” in Cantonese and began greeting her the same way. What started as a simple exchange quickly grew into shared smiles and a meaningful connection - showing how small efforts can go a long way.
Wayne also values the strong sense of community in Richmond and sees RCRG as a reflection of that spirit. He appreciates how people come together to support one another and believes that spirit of collaboration is what makes the community so special.
For Wayne, volunteering is about staying connected, giving back, and contributing in a way that supports others. His advice for those considering volunteering is simple: “Step up and step in - your contribution helps make Richmond a great city.”
Wayne’s story is a reminder that volunteering doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful. Whether through leadership or small, everyday interactions, each contribution plays a role in strengthening the community and making a lasting difference.