National Volunteer Week: Linda, White Hatter

Today we're celebrating Linda who's been volunteering for the White Hat Volunteer Program since 2012. Having travelled to over 40 countries, it's safe to say that Linda is an experienced traveler. As a born and raised Calgarian, she enjoys showcasing the city she grew up in to guests at YYC Calgary International Airport.

Shift: Mondays, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Start Date: Aug. 26, 2012.

How long have you been volunteering for YYC? Close to seven years.

How often do you volunteer? I volunteer once a week.

Why do you volunteer at YYC?

I've travelled to over 40 different countries, so I know how difficult it can be when you're tired and trying to navigate through an airport. So that's one of the big reasons why I volunteer. I like to make it easier for guests travelling through YYC.

Secondly, I was born and raised here in Calgary, and I just love this city. I want people to feel welcome. The White Hat Volunteers are the first and last thing travellers see of our city. I think it's a great opportunity to show off our western hospitality.

Do you have a favourite story you'd like to share?

There was a young man about 15 to 16 years old. He flew by himself from Singapore and was coming to Calgary to be with his aunt and uncle. He was soon keen. When he got here he already knew about all the Calgary sports teams and about Tim Hortons. We did a White Hat Ceremony for him and he said that it was the highlight of his entire trip.

What do you do when you're not volunteering?

Outside of volunteering on the White Hat Volunteer Team, I help out with other charities, such as Muscular Dystrophy Canada. Some of my volunteer experiences include working with the Heart and Stroke Foundation, United Way and Alberta Theatre Projects (ATP). My hobbies include going out for dinner, visiting the beautiful Rocky Mountains and most importantly, travelling. Travel is my biggest passion.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

What I'd like to say about YYC is that I know how much they take accessibility seriously, and I love that. All the partners here are really helpful to people that have extra needs.

Thank you Linda for giving our guests an amazing first and last impression of Calgary.

Click here to read more about our White Hat Volunteer Program.

National Volunteer Week runs from April 7 - 13. The Calgary Airport Authority wouldn't be the same without our volunteers. To honour our volunteers during this week, we're profiling one each day during National Volunteer Week. We're also celebrating our White Hatters with a dinner and dance on April 7, and we're thanking our Pre-Board Pals with a fun evening on April 11. Take a moment this week to thank a volunteer. They all make the guest experience extra special here at YYC and we couldn't do it without them.