With it being National Volunteer Week in Canada, volunteer board member Jen Bennett discusses her role at North Toronto Soccer Club and why she gives up her time to the club.
What does your role involve on a day-to-day basis?
I provide operational support to the staff.
Why is your role important to you, and to the community?
The Board of Directors provides a community lens and operational support for the professional staff, which helps to strengthen capacity within the organization beyond the staff.
How did you get into soccer and your current role at North Toronto Soccer Club?
Soccer has always been a part of my life. Although I did not play at a high level, my experiences and the relationships I developed through the sport are near and dear to me.
As a sports professional, I crossed paths with Doug Blair a number of times which is how my kids ended up at North Toronto Soccer Club. I knew the quality of the staff and programming, and from there, I was happy to give back to this great organization.
What is something that a lot of people don’t know about your role?
This club is one of the strongest community sport organizations in the country, and its commitment to strengthening the community and supporting both grassroots and development pathways is incredible. People would be surprised at how closely the staff works to contribute to the broader North Toronto community.
What are your tips for anyone aspiring to take up a similar role to you, or looking for a career in sport?
Get involved. We rely heavily on volunteers across the organization; if you have a specific skill or a broader desire to give back, get in touch with us, there are lots of ways to contribute.
As it relates to a career in sport, getting involved in community sport provides a unique perspective as you are involved in so many aspects of the organization. I encourage anyone interested in working in sports to volunteer at the community level as it provides a great opportunity to sample so many aspects of this diverse career path.
What are your aspirations for people at North Toronto Soccer Club?
Continue to be community-focused, providing quality programs across all aspects of the development pathway.
Why North Toronto Soccer Club?
The staff. They are committed, professional, and dedicated to providing high-quality opportunities for everyone in our community.
