Volunteers – What Keeps them Coming Back

At Campfire Circle, our incredible volunteers make the camp experience truly one-of-a-kind – and we wouldn’t be able to serve hundreds of kids and families without them. Volunteering for a new organization can feel a little nerve-racking, but many of our familiar faces keep coming back year after year. We asked them: “Why do you keep coming back?”

“I’ve been volunteering with camp for 17 years now, and it would be hard to live without. You give back to a community, and the community gives back to you. It’s an amazing place to be with very supportive people. If you’re thinking of volunteering – just do it! I promise you’re going to love it. “
– A.P

“The community of volunteers, campers and everyone involved at Campfire Circle truly make it a wonderful place . Seeing those “aha” moments when campers accomplish something they haven’t tried before is so impactful to me and keeps me coming back.”

“There are so many things that keep me coming back: the people, the place I’ve gotten to know over the past four years., the spirit of camp – it’s the perfect environment to lean on. I have made so many friends here. If you’re nervous about volunteering, just do it and jump feet first.“
– D.V

“The moment I arrived as a volunteer at Campfire Circle I knew I was in the right place. It was like I found my people. Those who genuinely care about others, dedicate their time and efforts to enriching lives while creating meaningful experiences. Training is provided before each session and although I initially felt nervous that I wouldn’t know what to do, I felt supported by other volunteers and staff who were always there to help (while myself creating new friendships). Spending time with campers (and families), watching them try new things, laugh, make new friends, and open up to each other was so special. The intention put behind every program made it easy to facilitate joyful experiences. It’s truly a place for magical connections and healing through happiness. I look forward to every volunteer opportunity I participate in.“
– S

“Every Campfire Circle program brings new moments of magic – from the campers you get to support to the friendships you make with fellow volunteers. I had the opportunity to take campers on their first canoe trips, help them work on their résumés, and ensure a polar dip was never missed. Camp keeps me smiling! Each year creates even more memories with both returning and new campers and friends. I’m looking forward to seeing what 2026 holds!”
– A.S

“Campfire Circle is a very special place, and entering my ninth year as a volunteer, what keeps me coming back is the connection. The feeling created by the volunteers, the staff, and the environment that encourages kids to be kids, to step out of their comfort zone, and to not be defined by their medical diagnosis. It is woven into every part of camp – from the encouragement to jump into the lake in Muskoka to making crafts with patients at SickKids. Campfire Circle truly fills my cup and keeps me coming back year after year.”
– A.K.