Weaving a Culture of Community in Nova Scotia

Our New Look

Since 2018 Volunteer Nova Scotia’s (VNS) platform has been the province’s premiere volunteer matching service. Our mission is to strengthen non-profits and provide all individuals with the ability to help build a more vibrant Nova Scotia.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, VNS proved its value by connecting volunteers with online volunteering positions that helped non-profits navigate the crisis.

Today, we offer more than just volunteer recruitment—we provide essential resources for volunteers and non-profit boards through our affiliate, the Kings Volunteer Resource Centre (KVRC).

Join us in shaping the future of Nova Scotia.

Board of Directors

Angela Patterson

Chair

Angela’s interest in organizational and community development inspires her volunteerism. She lived in Africa before her career with The Canadian International Development Agency took her to South Asia and Ottawa. Angela co-owns/operates Angelhoeve Farm where she lives with her spouse, beloved livestock guardian dogs, Icelandic sheep, and too many kinds of poultry to count.

Bruce MacArthur

Treasurer

Bruce chaired the KVRC board when it was incorporated in 2015 and has served as its Treasurer since 2017. Bruce has lived in the Annapolis Valley since 1972, working as Parks & Recreation Director until his retirement in 2012. He has volunteered with various recreational sports and events, and the Village Commission of New Minas.

Brenda Griffin

Brenda is a lifelong resident of Kings County and has been involved with various nonprofits for decades. Her interest in social justice and equity issues are driving forces behind KVRC’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. A caregiver, she naturally rallies for others. “I continue to learn how best to serve others in the community I call home. My favourite saying is: “There's No First Place in Human Race.”

Board Member

Jim Morton

Jim has practiced clinical and administrative social work in Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan, and New Brunswick—work that continues to involve volunteering and volunteers. These days he pursues particular interests in mental health, literature, leadership, politics, social change, and Bowen Family Systems Theory. Jim lives in Kentville, Nova Scotia.

Board Member

Judith Mitchell-Denzin

Judith is a retired accountant who has worked with municipal governments and a non-profit recreation association. She joined the KVRC board of directors to connect with the local community and learn more about the volunteer sector and what it offers. When she isn’t spending time with her grandson, knitting, or stargazing, she is probably lost in a good book.

Board Member

Melina Param

After a rewarding 25 years leading Human Resources teams internationally, Melina is now dedicated to non-profit work that fosters and supports community. She believes volunteerism has a unique potential to build both experiences and connections. In her free time, Melina enjoys yoga, gardening, and exploring Nova Scotia's vibrant food and wine scene.

Board Member

Staff

Heather Killen

Program and Communications Coordinator

Originally from Dartmouth, Heather came to the Valley in 1999 to work for The Digby Courier. During her time as a reporter and editor for various newspapers and magazines, Heather discovered that volunteers are the changemakers of our world, leading her to the doorstep of Volunteer Nova Scotia.

Carla Wentzell

Born and raised in Kentville, Nova Scotia, Carla graduated from the Nova Scotia Community College Kingstec Campus. In her spare time, Carla draws, knits, reads, and spends time with family and friends. She believes volunteering is a wonderful way to be part of the community. We are stronger together.

Administrative Assistant

At the Kings Volunteer Resource Centre (KVRC), we believe in the transformative power of volunteerism. Since 2015, we've been the beating heart of Nova Scotia's volunteer community, bridging the gap between organizations on a mission and those who seek to serve.

KVRC supports individuals and non-profits in creating lasting change. Through workshops, webinars, and symposiums, we equip organizations with the tools to harness the full potential of their volunteers.

Our partnership with Volunteer Canada and the Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage in 2018 birthed Volunteer Nova Scotia, expanding our reach and impact. Together, we're not just volunteering—we're revolutionizing how Nova Scotia serves its communities.