LAC LA BICHE – Whether he is coaching youth soccer in Lac La Biche, lending a hand at church, or helping out at the local Humane Society, Wayne Mah is dedicated to making his community a better place through volunteering.
For Mah, the most enjoyable aspect of volunteering is the sense of purpose and connection that it brings. He believes there is something deeply rewarding about knowing that his time and efforts are directly helping others.
“It’s not about recognition, but about making a difference, no matter how small,” Mah told Lakeland This Week.
Mah stated that he has always volunteered, largely because of the example set by his parents. Growing up, they encouraged him and his siblings to get involved in the community, to lend a hand wherever they could.
“That mindset stayed with me into adulthood, but it really took on a bigger role in my life when I became a parent,” he said.
Mah explained that as his children grew and started participating in various activities, including sports, school events, and church programs, he noticed a common problem - there weren’t enough people stepping up to volunteer their time to help.
Teams needed coaches, events needed organizers, and programs simply couldn’t run without volunteers.
“Rather than see these opportunities disappear for my kids and others, I decided to get more involved myself. I wanted my children to see the same values I was raised with."
Currently, Mah serves as coaching director for Lac La Biche FC and has been involved with the Lac La Biche Regional Humane Society for the past five years either walking dogs or fostering them.
While taking on these volunteer roles has been a big commitment, it has always been worth it.
“It’s about making sure opportunities are there for everyone, and setting an example of responsibility, leadership, and service,” he stated.
Mah gets a lot out of the relationships he has built through volunteering, which has enabled him to meet people from different walks of life. Those shared experiences often lead to strong bonds and a greater understanding of one’s community.
Volunteering is also an opportunity to pass on skills or values, such as teamwork, responsibility, and commitment.
Strong communities don’t build themselves, said Mah. Much like a team can’t function without players each willing to play their part, communities rely on people showing up and contributing.
According to Mah, volunteering fills gaps that money or policy can’t always reach.
“When people give their time, it creates a culture of care and responsibility, where everyone feels a little more supported and included,” he said.
Volunteering provides people with a sense of purpose, and allows them to use their skills, time, and energy in meaningful ways, and to be part of something bigger than themselves, added Mah.
Volunteers often find fulfillment in knowing they’re creating positive change.
When asked what he would say to other people to encourage them to volunteer in their community, Mah replied saying, “Don’t wait for someone else to step up - be that person. Volunteering isn’t about being perfect or having tons of free time. It’s about showing up, doing your best, and making a difference, even in small ways.”
Volunteer Week runs from April 27 to May 3.
