Today we’re celebrating Patti, who’s been volunteering with the Pre-Board Pals at the YYC Calgary International Airport. Patti, along with her Goldendoodle Darby, have completed over 200 hours of volunteer service at YYC. For those who may not know, YYC established a community partnership with the Pet Access League Society (PALS) back in April of 2016. Ever since, the Pre-Board Pals have been providing pet therapy to passengers traveling through YYC.
Volunteer Profile – Patti Johnston, Pre-Board Pals
Shift: Fridays, 9 - 10:30 p.m.
How long have you been volunteering for YYC?
I’ve been volunteering with YYC for three years as of July 2019. I’ve been volunteering with the PALS for over five years.
How often do you volunteer?
At least once a week.
Why do you volunteer at YYC?
I love how it helps people. It makes a difference when Darby goes up to somebody and you see them smile or cry. They’re just so glad to see the dogs.
Do you have a favourite story you’d like to share?
One thing that happened not too long ago, involved one of our volunteers who had recently lost her dog. Darby saw the volunteer and instantly knew that the she needed some extra puppy love that day.
What do you do when you’re not volunteering?
I work full-time at the William Watson Lodge in Kananaskis Country.
Does Darby enjoy volunteering?
She loves it. As soon as we walk into YYC she’s pulling on her leash trying to walk over to people.
What’s Darby’s favourite treat?
Hard-boiled eggs and belly rubs.
Thank you Patti and Darby for all that you do for YYC and our guests. Click here to learn more about our Pre-Board Pals 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.