National Volunteer Week is celebrated every April in Canada, and is the perfect opportunity to take time to recognize the incredible volunteers who give back to their communities. This year’s celebration runs from April 14 to 20.
Amber Joss CPA, CA embodies the spirit of volunteerism that draws so many CPAs to give back to their profession. She wears many hats as a volunteer: a member of the board of the Lethbridge Chapter of CPAs; a financial literacy volunteer with CPA Alberta; and a member of the board of her local ski hill. Amber recently shared some reflections from her volunteer experiences and provided encouragement for other CPAs who are looking to get involved!
“Currently, I sit on the Lethbridge Chapter of CPAs board and attend the CPA Alberta Advisory Collaboration Committee (ACC) meetings on the Lethbridge Chapter’s behalf. Since 2018, I have held various roles at the Chapter, including Chair, Vice-Chair, Communications, and Secretary. My involvement has enabled me to deliver professional development (PD) presentations province-wide and expand PD and networking opportunities to our smaller city, eliminating the need for costly travel to larger centers. I became a financial literacy volunteer with CPA Alberta after recognizing the widespread need and aim to offer more courses in my local area. Additionally, I’m involved on the board of our local ski hill, another passion of mine.
I was incredibly fortunate to grow up in a family with some truly amazing role models. My dad always said, ‘If you live in a community, you should serve it,’ and he embodied this principle his entire life. Initially, I followed his example, his voice guiding me toward service. However, over time, my perspective shifted, and my motivation to serve became more deeply rooted in my connection to the community. I now feel a personal investment in the success of any organization I volunteer for, including CPA Alberta, and I believe in utilizing my skills to advance their missions. If I can make a difference, why would I not try? It fills my cup to help where I am needed.
Through this sense of community, I have met so many people and my network has expanded significantly. Many of these people are kindred spirits who have become much more to me than colleagues. The comradery and coming together to further a common cause or goal can be invigorating, and as a result, I look forward to monthly meetings. It truly is all about relationships. When volunteering on the Board of our Chamber of Commerce, I met a fellow CPA who became an integral part of my circle as well as a professional and life mentor. I believe it is my responsibility to pay that forward.
Volunteering fills my cup and challenges me to grow. It presents opportunities that I would not have otherwise had. Specifically, chairing the ACC has challenged me to motivate others to be their best selves, sharing snips of my favorite motivational speakers. It also challenged me to get comfortable in front of larger groups of people while making the meeting interesting and engaging for everyone in attendance. So, I suppose the biggest benefit I derive is personal growth.
One of the most significant life lessons I have learned from volunteering is that you have an option in life: you can sit back and point out issues and obstacles or you can become a part of the solution. Being a part of the solution is infinitely more rewarding.”
Volunteers are critical resources for CPA Alberta. They provide valuable support to CPA Alberta and help the organization fulfill its obligations to protect the public. CPA volunteers also strengthen the delivery of CPA Alberta’s core services.
CPAs can make an impact within the profession by volunteering with CPA Alberta in one of the many positions available. Alberta CPAs can also give back to the community by volunteering with different organizations across the province.
Explore the ways in which you can volunteer your time and expertise as a CPA.
