Volunteer Spotlight: Alexandra Mareschal

What would we do without volunteers? Our volunteers make so many things possible – from office administration to event support. Many of the things we do at WWF-Canada would not be possible without them and we love them to bits.

Every Friday, you’ll find Alexa at our Toronto office reception desk taking calls from supporters and greeting visitors.  Over the past year, she has donated over 100 hours of her time to our cause and assisted us with numerous projects, including data entry, bilingual outreach initiatives, research and as an Event Ambassador at the Green Living Show.  We asked Alexa what motivates her to volunteer every week:
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself?
I have always been interested in everything to do with environmental conservation. I read Silent Spring by Rachel Carson in 5th grade was pretty much hooked on being a biologist from the point forward. A native of Southern California, I got my B.Sc in biology from UC-San Diego. A little over a year later, I found myself a long ways away in Toronto for my husband’s job. It’s a lot colder but there are so many great opportunities here that I have been fortunate enough to encounter and help me determine my next career steps. My plans are now to attend law school and specialize in (of course) environmental law.
Q: What made you decide, or inspired you, to volunteer with WWF?
When I first moved to Canada, I was not a resident so I was not able to work. I started looking for volunteer opportunities with environmental organizations in Toronto and luckily, WWF was recruiting! WWF has always been one of the top 5 organizations that I would like to work for so it was an easy choice.
Q: What has the volunteer experience been like so far?
Couldn’t be better. Leandra and everyone on staff are absolutely amazing and so supportive. Volunteer positions vary a lot in terms of management and organization, which can make the experience either fantastic or really stressful. WWF is the gold standard in volunteer development and management. Volunteers are treated incredibly well, regularly recognized for their contribution, and quickly feel like they are part of the WWF team. I have also enjoyed the opportunity to see the inner workings of the organization up-close. It has been an invaluable experience.

Q: What is your favourite aspect of being a volunteer?
The people! The team is just so great – I look forward to my time at WWF every week. Contributing to such a worthwhile cause with a group of fantastic like-minded individuals – it doesn’t get any better.
Q: What have you learned or gained from volunteering?
In addition to practical experience in how organizations like WWF manage their donor relationships and working with software like Raiser’s Edge, I have gained a greater perspective on how NGOs can effectively influence policy changes and raise awareness. I have also personally gained a sense of community that, for someone new to a big city like Toronto, was very valuable.
Q: What advice would you share with others?
Never talk yourself out of exploring opportunities like volunteering. The benefits are usually so much more than you ever anticipated!