As we celebrate National Volunteer Week (April 19-25, 2026), we are excited to recognize and celebrate one of our Agency’s dedicated volunteer drivers, Lincoln Whittaker.
Since 2007, Lincoln has been an exceptional community builder through his long-standing commitment as a volunteer driver with York Region CAS, a role he has fulfilled with unwavering dedication for over 19 years.
How long have you been volunteering and what inspired you to start?
It’s probably been over 19 years. I like driving, and I learned that volunteer drivers help move kids from one place to another. It’s always pleasant when kids meet their parents after not seeing them for a while — they stretch out their hands and show so much energy. I enjoy observing those moments. The questions kids ask and the things they say are fascinating.
What has been the most rewarding part of volunteering?
Seeing happy kids. Those moments of happiness stay with me.
Can you share a memorable moment from your experience?
One day I picked up a child in Scarborough who was very upset and distraught. The only way I could get her to settle down was to lend her my phone so she could speak to her mother. After that, she calmed down, and I drove her all the way to the top end of Keswick. Just being there to comfort her in that moment meant a lot.
What would you say to someone thinking about becoming a volunteer driver?
If you don’t like kids, it’s probably not your thing. But if you do, seeing them happy as a result of something you’ve done is very satisfying. For me, it’s quite fulfilling.
How has volunteering impacted you personally?
It’s about helping coordinate needs in the community. Kids need support to see their parents, and parents need to see their kids. The Agency makes that possible, and as a volunteer, you play a small part in that. It may seem like a small role, but it’s meaningful.
To learn more about this year’s NVW, please visit: https://ivy26.ca/about/.
If you know someone who may be interested in becoming a volunteer driver or board member, please encourage them to learn more and apply by visiting: https://www.yorkcas.org/volunteer/.
