March Volunteer of the Month, Gabby!

March 29, 2019

What are your name and pronouns? Gabby she/her

How did you get involved with QMUNITY?

I first got involved with Q a few years ago as a volunteer for Eastside Pride. A year later, I got an email from Q inviting folks to walk with them in the Vancouver Pride Parade. That same year, Jewish people had been asked to leave Dyke Marches in the US. I thought this would be an important opportunity to stand up against anti-Semitism, and increase visibility for LGBT Jews. I asked Q if I would be able to march with a Jewish Pride flag and they welcomed me with open arms. When my schedule freed up, I signed up to volunteer on a regular basis.

Tell me a bit about yourself! I am a gay Jewess. I currently work as a Community Outreach Worker in the Jewish community, and I am passionate about social justice, inclusion, and community building. I also like sports.

What’s your favourite part of volunteering at QMUNITY? The opportunity to make a positive impact on someone’s life.

Tell me a short story of an interaction at QMUNITY that stands out for you.

I often get calls from folks in isolated communities looking for LGBTQ2S+ resources. Anytime I can point them in the right direction is rewarding and memorable. That, and watering the plants with Stewart.

What does your happy place look like? I try to get to Tofino once a year to surf. That is my favorite place in the world.

What is your favourite food and why? Ice cream…because it’s sweet.

What items could you not survive without? I could not survive without my biological and chosen family, as well as my skateboard.

What’s your favourite way to spend a day in Vancouver? Sharing a meal with good pals!

“Gabby is a true trooper. She goes above and beyond the call of duty.  She feels real compassion towards refugees and she has actively helped the Information and Referrals Department to become more articulated with her innovative ideas.” – Carl@, Information and Referrals coordinator