When people think about volunteering, they often think about giving back with their time. For many, it’s also a way to heal, connect and transform difficult experiences into meaningful impact.  

Russell Smith’s volunteerism with Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada began with his daughter.   

In 2006, his four-year-old daughter, Sarah, was diagnosed with a rare malignant brain tumour. Within days, the family was navigating hospitals, medical terminology and overwhelming uncertainty.   

It was during those early days that Russell was introduced to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada, through a pediatric brain tumour handbook that helped him better understand Sarah’s diagnosis and ask informed questions.  

“At that point, we were recipients,” he reflects. “We were just trying to get through it.” 

Over the years, the organization became a part of their journey. They joined BrainWAVE, a support program for families with a child impacted by a brain tumour. They participated in their local London, Ont. Brain Tumour Walk, feeling encouraged by the community that surrounded them.  

“It was amazing how many people came out,” Russell says. “That sense of camaraderie. It was a combination of support, memories and doing good.” 

From receiving support to giving back 

After Sarah passed in 2011, Russell and his family stepped away to grieve. But eventually, Russell reconnected with those who had been there for him in his hardest moments.  

“It felt logical to give back,” he says. “There were other families going through the same thing.” 

As a CPA with decades of experience, Russell joined the Finance Committee as a volunteer, later becoming Chair and eventually joining the Board of Directors in 2019. 

His path highlights that with volunteerism, there is no single way to contribute. Some people volunteer at events. Others share their stories. Some, like Russell, bring professional expertise that strengthens the organization behind the scenes.  

“It was a chance to apply my skills in a meaningful way,” he explains. “That’s where I felt I could make the biggest impact.” 

Making a difference 

Russell’s years of service, understandably, started with his daughter, Sarah.  

“Volunteering helped me honour her memory,” he says. “It gave me opportunities to share her story and feel like I was doing something positive.” 

While honouring Sarah, he’s also made a significant difference for the community that embraced him in his time of need.  

“It’s rewarding,” he says. “And the people you meet, on the Board and in the organization, they’re incredible.” 

Even while living overseas in the Philippines from 2021 to 2025, Russell remained deeply committed. He recalls waking up at 5:30 a.m. to attend meetings across time zones.  

“That’s how important it was to me to stay connected and support the organization,” he says.  

The power of volunteerism 

Volunteerism can make an extraordinary difference in the lives of others, but it can also prove “cathartic,” as Russell says.  

“You’re taking something that was a terrible experience and turning it into something positive,” he explains. “When you help someone else and they say, ‘Thank you, I really needed that,’ it makes you feel good. It helps you stay in a more positive frame of mind.” 

He is also quick to challenge the misconception that only financial contributions matter.  

“Not everyone can give thousands of dollars,” he says. “But everyone can give time and knowledge, and that matters more than people think.” 

Volunteer leadership and lasting impact 

Russell’s experience also speaks to the importance of volunteer leadership.  

Organizations are strengthened by people who bring not only skills, but lived experience and a deep connection to the mission. 

“When your leadership comes from that place, you’re more likely to contribute in a meaningful way,” he says.  

At the same time, he emphasizes that every perspective matters, whether or not someone has a personal connection to brain tumours.  

“It’s that combination of skills and viewpoints that makes an organization stronger,” he says.  

A message to the community 

As Russell prepares to step away from his Board role, his message is rooted in gratitude.  

“I’m thankful for the support we received and thankful that I had the chance to give back,” he says. “It was a big part of my healing.” 

He also shares a simple, but important, reminder.  

“We always need new people. New ideas, new energy, continued support. That’s what keeps the mission going.”