Many nonprofit leaders worry that volunteerism is disappearing. According to Senior Consultant at Global Philanthropic Canada, Pamela Simmons, that’s simply not true.
Appearing on Coffee with Genny B on U Multicultural Channel, host Genny Sacco-Bak sat down with the veteran fundraising professional to unpack decades of experience in philanthropy, volunteer management, mentorship, and community building. The conversation challenged some of the most common assumptions about fundraising and volunteer recruitment.
One of Simmons’ strongest observations was refreshingly simple: “People aren’t volunteering because they’re not asked.” She believes organizations often fail to clearly define volunteer opportunities or create roles that fit modern schedules. Instead of broad appeals, nonprofits need specific, meaningful opportunities that allow people to contribute without feeling overwhelmed.
Her own journey began long before fundraising became a profession. At just twelve years old, she organized a clothing drive after a neighbour’s home burned down. That early experience of helping others created a lasting sense of purpose that eventually led to leadership roles across Winnipeg’s nonprofit sector.
Throughout the interview, Simmons repeatedly returned to the importance of relationships. Fundraising, she explained, is not primarily about money. It’s about trust, shared values, and authentic human connections.
“Nobody is a money machine,” she told Sacco-Bak. Donors, volunteers, and supporters want to feel connected to a cause. When organizations understand what matters to people and create opportunities that align with those interests, support naturally follows.
The discussion also highlighted the value of mentorship. Having spent decades developing fundraising programs, managing volunteers, and guiding emerging professionals, Simmons remains committed to sharing her knowledge through mentoring and writing.
Perhaps the most memorable takeaway was her belief that volunteering should never feel like sacrifice. It should be joyful, meaningful work that brings value not only to the organization, but also to the person giving their time.
That philosophy continues to inspire a new generation of fundraisers, volunteers, and community leaders.
https://youtu.be/ht_8wqFRdIk
Yuliia Kovalenko, U Multicultural Journalism