Nick has been volunteering with the City of Port Coquitlam since Fall 2025, and has already contributed 45 hours through the Learn to Skate program. As a recent Fire Academy graduate, with a strong interest in skating and biking, a passion for community service, and a background in volunteering, Nick brings a positive, community-minded approach to every shift. We are grateful to have Nick as part of the City of Port Coquitlam’s Volunteer Team, and we sincerely thank him for the time, energy, and care he brings to supporting our recreation programs.
How and why did you get started in volunteering?
I started volunteering with the Ski Patrol at Mount Seymour in November 2024 because I wanted to try first aid and gain experience in an emergency medical role. Ski patrol is also a really great reason to get out snowboarding more. This has been a very positive experience, as I enjoy the combination of fun and helping others.
Last fall, I wanted to try and find a volunteer role within my own community, I started looking for something that would help me build leadership skills, and that’s what led me to the Learn to Skate program.
I also volunteer with my wife’s outdoor education program at Walnut Grove Secondary, and more recently I have been volunteering as a mentor with Firemedix Fire Academy.
What are your most memorable moments during your volunteering experience?
One of my most memorable moments was working with a child who skated only using their right foot. I encouraged them to try their left, but they were really confident sticking with what they knew. With support and encouragement, they eventually tried it, and it became a moment where I could really see progress and confidence building.
Another highlight was a child who wanted to play hockey but was very new to skating at first. They needed a lot of 1-on-1 support, and their parent was concerned in the beginning. By the end, the child was happy to be there, excited, and had improved a lot. It was a big change and really rewarding to see.
What keeps you coming back to volunteer?
No matter how hard my day is, when I’m volunteering and part of the program, I leave with a smile. It’s rewarding, and the kids bring so much positivity and energy.
I also enjoy that volunteering connects to my longer-term interests, like continuing to build skills, having a positive and direct impact in my community, and working toward my career goals.
What do you love most about our community and being a part of it?
I love the family friendly aspect, as my wife and I are starting to build a family of our own. I also love the many dogs in the community, including my own 9-month-old puppy. I also find that Port Coquitlam still has some of that small-town charm. The people are very friendly, it’s not overly busy, and there are lots of outdoor spaces and trails. It’s also a beautiful location, walkable, and very family-friendly.
I grew up in the Tri Cities, and I’ve always liked being able to get involved and feel like I’m truly part of the community.