April Volunteer of the Month - Dakota Shelby

Dakota Shelby, they/them/theirs

How did you get involved with QMUNITY?

I was looking to get some volunteer experience that was in some way related to queer advocacy. I looked online and found Qmunity, which at the time was looking for IRS volunteers so I started there.

Tell me a bit about yourself!

I am a bit of a typical east van queer. I work as a photographer and facilitator (which is like 4 unrelated jobs). I like making art and pretending I have a refined beer palate. I'm passionate about trans rights and ending poverty.

What's your favourite part of volunteering at QMUNITY?

I get to meet a lot of wonderful and interesting people.

Tell me a short story of an interaction at QMUNITY that stands out for you.

I always enjoy when youth call and they are all nervous. Getting to help them figure out their problems is a really great feeling.

What does your happy place look like?

I went to Mycenae in Greece when I was a teenager. The mix of ancient ruins and sweeping green mountainsides was pretty happy for me.

What is your favourite food and why?

I love popcorn. The texture and saltiness are really lovely.

What items could you not survive without?

Probably my day planner. I tend to be really forgetful, so having everything written down helps a lot.

What's your favourite way to spend a day in Vancouver?

There are so many little art galleries. I could spend a whole day looking at all the interesting exhibitions.