As part of National Volunteer Week (April 19–25, 2026), we are proud to highlight a few of the incredible volunteers who help drive our mission forward. This year’s theme, Ignite Volunteerism, is a year-long effort to elevate civic participation, strengthen volunteer infrastructure and celebrate the stories that inspire action across Canada. 

Throughout the week, we will celebrate the many ways people across Canada are igniting volunteerism in their communities and deepening our collective impact. We are pleased to begin by highlighting one of our remarkable volunteers, Anaïs Boyer. 

How did you become connected to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada?

Through a volunteer opportunity posted on a Montreal volunteering website. 

What inspired you to start volunteering with the organization and what keeps you motivated to stay involved?  

I’ve been volunteering for the organization since April 2023. I simply felt that my free time could be put to good use and have meaning.  

With that in mind, I had taken part in a few one-time events for other organizations, but when I came across the opportunity mentioning that Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada was looking for someone for a long-term commitment, with the human connection I was looking for, I wanted to contribute in my own small way. 

What motivates me to stay involved is the amazing team of volunteers—Marylin and I make a great team—and I truly appreciate each participant in our support groups. There’s also a lot of kindness in everything we do, despite the difficult circumstances, which makes this volunteer work all the more meaningful. 

What has been one of the most meaningful or memorable moments from your volunteer experience? 

I gave a speech at the Ro et Mari concert in May 2024 and I was really proud to represent the organization that way. But I think every participant’s story remains memorable to me. All of those moments are truly priceless. 

April is the National Month of Hope, and National Volunteer Week’s theme this year is Ignite Volunteerism. How do you feel volunteers bring hope and connection to the brain tumour community? 

I think we do it out of genuine desire, not obligation, so the energy is naturally different.  

We also talk about it with people around us, which helps raise awareness about these organizations. People who might never have been exposed to these causes otherwise become more aware.  

And in a way, we’re not immersed in it every single day (at least in my case), so I think that having a fresh perspective can sometimes bring a bit of new energy. 

What message would you share with others about the difference volunteers can make in the brain tumour community? 

If you’re fortunate enough to have the resources, whether it’s time, technical skills or anything else, these meetings don’t actually require much—just some listening and about an hour and a half of your time each month. And yet, they make a real difference and help keep hope alive. So why not do it? 

Discover more volunteer stories for National Volunteer Week by reading the spotlights featuring David and Brenda.