For UFV alumna Aman Gill (BIS ’19), volunteering is a lifelong purpose. Her passion for service is shaped by the early loss of her parents, who instilled in her the importance of community and education. That experience became a defining force in her life, guiding both her personal and professional journey. The Bachelor of Integrated Studies alumna has found ways to weave volunteerism into her daily life while balancing the demands of career and family.

One of her most meaningful commitments has been her work with the Crystal Gala Foundation, where she has volunteered for over two decades, helping raise funds for breast cancer research, detection, and technology.

“I know what it was like to lose a parent at a young age,” Aman shares. “I didn’t want other families, especially children, to go through that same experience. That became my driving force.”

In addition to her work with the foundation, Aman has contributed her time to the Rotary Club and served on the Abbotsford Police Board. In that role, she acted as a vital link between the community and law enforcement.

“You are a bridge between the community and the police,” she explains. “It was an honour to be part of that, helping contribute to a safer community.”

In every role, Aman has found ways to help others. As owner of the Fraser Valley branch of Express Employment Professionals, an international staffing franchise, she continues to respond to community needs by connecting individuals with meaningful employment opportunities and helping businesses find the talent they need to grow. When Aman reflects on her work so far, it has always been about helping people build stability in their lives.

“The mission of the business is to connect people with meaningful work opportunities,” she explains. “Our office helps businesses find talent while helping individuals build their careers and support their families. It’s a service for both sides. When both businesses and people thrive, the entire community becomes strong too.”

Aman credits her time at the University of the Fraser Valley for helping shape her confidence and leadership abilities. Her education encouraged her to take on new challenges and pursue opportunities to lead. Today, she carries that mindset into her business, mentoring her recruits at Express Employment Professional and emphasizing the importance of both education and volunteerism.

For those considering getting involved in their community, Aman strongly recommends doing so.

“Volunteering is not just something that looks good on a resume. It is about building relationships, stepping outside your comfort zone, and growing as a person. It changes you in ways you don’t expect.”

Are you looking for ways to volunteer this week? Aman recommends applying to join your local Rotary club as a great place to start. UFV students can find on-campus volunteer opportunities at the Student Experience Office and the Student Union Society. Faculty, students, and staff can also join the volunteer list for UFV’s Office of Sustainability.

April 19-25 marks National Volunteer Week, a yearly tradition that began in 1943 to recognize the volunteer efforts of Canadian women during World War II. It now celebrates 24 million volunteers across Canada, whose generous work keeps so many organizations and programs functioning.