University of Niagara Falls Canada launches volunteer recognition program during National Volunteer Week

Student volunteers contributed more than 2,000 service hours in 2025 so far

The University of Niagara Falls Canada celebrated student volunteers and honoured their considerable contributions to the community with a Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon which also served as the official launch of its volunteer recognition program.

Held May 3 on campus, the luncheon brought together students, staff, and campus leaders to recognize the contributions of students who have dedicated their time to serving others. In 2025 alone, UNF students have collectively volunteered more than 2,000 hours through campus programs and community partnerships.

Hosted by the Community Engagement and Student Success offices, the luncheon recognized student volunteers who have accrued significant service hours. Awards were presented in tiers based on the number of hours they logged throughout the Winter Term.

• Bronze Level – For one to 14 hours of volunteer service
• Silver Level – For 15 to 34 hours of volunteer service
• Gold Level – For 35+ hours of volunteer service
• Platinum Level – Awarded to three students who accrued the highest number of volunteer hours

For the Winter Term, the three students who achieved Platinum Level surpassed 75 volunteer hours each. They were Bhavesh Negi, Poliana Cerqueira Pereira Bertolai and Shashikala Manikkuge.

“This is a chance to celebrate the wonderful work that they’ve done,” said Felicia Werner, Executive Director of Community Engagement at UNF. “This event was about more than just the numbers though, it’s about highlighting the impact our students are making in the community.”

Volunteering, she said, is a way for new students to integrate themselves into the community when they come to campus. It offers them the opportunity to make friends, build community connections, and in a few instances, it has even led to jobs.

In addition to volunteering on campus, many students donate their time to community organizations such as Project SHARE, Alzheimer Society Niagara Region, The Bridge Niagara Falls, Niagara Grape & Wine Festival, and Community Care of St. Catharines & Thorold. 

“I want to say how much we have truly appreciated and enjoyed our partnership with UNF. The contributions from student volunteers have been so valuable to Project SHARE. Many students have supported our food bank, assisting clients accessing emergency food," said Karen Misek, volunteer coordinator with Project SHARE.

Moving forward, students will be recognized each term for their volunteering efforts. The hours to determine their service level reset at the start of each term.