Volunteer Profile
Deanne Fairfield
For the Fairfield family, making a difference is what they do, and that remains especially true for Deanne.
Deanne has been involved with Kindred Connections Society as both a volunteer and donor for many years.
“I decided to volunteer my time and resources with [Kindred] because I love the programs available,” said Fairfield.
Since 2018, she has helped facilitate backpack and school donations from Fairfield Watson for the Never Too Late program bringing the total to 11 cohorts throughout her tenure.
The Never Too Late (NTL) program provides no-cost academic, social and emotional support to adult learners who want to complete their GED (General Education Development or high school equivalency). Offering a learning style for every learner, in-person or virtual options are available, with daytime and evening groups to accommodate schedules. This program is designed to prepare adults to write the GED exams, all in a supportive setting with wrap-around support to reduce barriers to learning.
“I continue to believe so wholeheartedly in Never Too Late and the graduations and students inspire me every term,” said Fairfield. “It has opened up opportunities to talk about how important education is, how hard it can be to achieve and challenges that can interrupt education but that it’s never too late and we are never too old to learn! And the importance of trying.”
Deanne and her kids all volunteer their time by stuffing each backpack with all the supplies that students will need to succeed in the program.
Being part of each learner’s journey is something Deanne and her family are proud of, and it culminates in students graduating with their GED.
“I am emotional each time, witnessing the efforts of the incredible students and their courage, prioritization, and commitment to achieve,” said Fairfield.
National Volunteer Week celebrates volunteers and here at Kindred, we could not deliver the programs and services we do without the effort of our wonderful volunteers.
Throughout the week we will be profiling some of the individuals who are helping us realize the power of human connection.
“My hope as a volunteer, is for people to know I care – that it takes everyone, every kind of person to build a strong family, an organization, a community,” said Fairfield. “We all matter and have a place, as clients, citizens, employees and volunteers. We can all do our part.”
Learn more about Kindred and our programs at www.kindred.ca and if you are interested in getting involved as a volunteer visit: www.kindred.ca/volunteer