Nonprofit celebrates record volunteer hours – valued at $250,000!

This National Volunteer week, The North Grove is highlighting the financial impact of a record-breaking year for volunteering, calculating its value at more than $250,000.  

Over the past year more than 170 volunteers of all ages have logged 10,810 hours at the community hub. 

“That’s a 10% boost to our budget,” says Executive Director Laura Horn. “From our front desk to our dining room, our playroom to our Community Farm, volunteers play an enormous role in every aspect of The North Grove’s programming.” 

"We fundraise half of our budget every year, so having volunteers contribute so much time to our daily programs reduces financial pressure.” 

The North Grove has seen a huge increase in youth volunteerism over the past two years.  

“About 10% of our volunteer hours come from young people who live in this community. We work with about 40 youth volunteers who logged 1,100 hours over the past year alone,” says Horn. 

On Mondays, youth help set up Family Supper, a free community meal for families with children 18 and under. On Fridays, they assist with spices and packaging for the Good Food Market, a subsidized produce market for community members facing food insecurity. 

The North Grove’s Youth Summer Leadership Program launched in 2023 with a cohort of 11 volunteers aged 13-15. In 2024 they welcomed 16 youth.  

“The main feedback we received from participants was that the program provided youth with purpose and helped foster a sense of belonging and safety in their community. It made them feel productive throughout the summer months, and most of the participants are keen to stay involved in some capacity.” says Catherine Morley, Volunteer Manager.   

In 2025, Morley anticipates participation from more than 20 youth volunteers. 

The organization has also seen growth in its March Break Program for youth volunteers, and special youth-led programs like Youth Cultural Food Hours where youth select and prepare recipes and share them during community programs.  

“We've received amazing feedback about the joy that comes from seeing youth involved in sharing their culture through food and seeing food they recognize being served and shared with the broader community,” says Morley.