“Trust yourself and keep it simple.”
Finding Joy and Connection on the Water
When asked about a personal motto, Alana Meyer’s response is a testament to her grounded and positive approach: “Trust yourself and keep it simple.” This philosophy has guided her not only in her volunteer work with BC Mobility Opportunities Society (BCMOS) but also in her life as a high school woodworking teacher.
For Alana, the journey into volunteering with BCMOS began unexpectedly. One day, while walking past Science World, she noticed kayakers on the water and felt an immediate connection. It wasn’t just the familiar sight of paddles and water but the echo of her past, a connection to her passion for inclusive paddling. Little did she know that this serendipitous moment would lead her to become a volunteer with the BCMOS Kayaking Program.
Alana’s journey into adaptive paddling began with Power for All, where she dedicated years of service, eventually becoming a director. Her experience with Power for All prepared her well for her volunteer role at BCMOS. She was already familiar with key responsibilities such as ensuring safety, fostering a positive environment, and bringing good energy to each paddling session. However, the unique dynamics of the BCMOS program truly captivated her. “Their participants are diverse,” Alana reflects, “which is great in its own way.”
One of the most significant challenges Alana encountered was communication on the water. Since volunteers sit behind the participant in the tandem kayak, hearing each other can be challenging at times. Some participants have communication barriers that further complicate interactions.
“To overcome this, I’ve learned the importance of having a quick conversation on the dock before heading out,” Alana shared. “That little bit of introduction helps establish how we’ll communicate once we’re on the water.” She emphasizes active listening, making sure participants feel heard and understood.
Despite the challenges, Alana found immense joy in her volunteer work. Among the many participants Alana has paddled with, one in particular stood out. “Her name was Alexandra, I believe. She was in a wheelchair but incredibly strong in her upper body. Once she was set up in the kayak, she was so confident and able. We went further than I had ever paddled with a participant before. It was amazing to see her freedom on the water compared to her mobility on land.”
Another memorable experience involved a participant who initially seemed unenthused with kayaking. However, when they spotted a seal, Alana turned it into a fun challenge: “I said, ‘Let’s go chase the seal!’ Of course, the seal swam away, but it gave them a new motivation, and we had a great time.”
Volunteering with BCMOS has been more than just a pastime for Alana; it’s been a journey of personal growth. “It’s been a huge confidence builder,” she shares, “and it actually contributes a lot to my abilities to be a better teacher.” She finds inspiration in the resilience and determination of the participants, reinforcing her belief that “anybody can do anything, in spite of their limitations.”
She also appreciates the strong sense of community among the volunteers, staff, and participants. “There’s always great camaraderie on the dock. Whether it’s setting up, sharing stories, or participating in volunteer events like pizza parties, it’s a welcoming and inclusive environment.”
Alana has simple but powerful advice for those considering volunteering, “Don’t overthink it. It’s easy to get overwhelmed thinking you’re responsible for another person, but at the end of the day, it’s just a paddle. Trust yourself and enjoy the experience.”
As Alana prepares for another summer with BCMOS, she intends to sign up for more shifts and increase her volunteer hours. She also hopes to engage more in group paddling for social engagement and safety.
With dedicated volunteers like Alana, BCMOS continues to provide unforgettable experiences for participants, reinforcing that everyone—regardless of ability—can enjoy the freedom and joy of being on the water.
Inspired by Alana’s story? Join our team of dedicated volunteers and make a difference on the water! Visit https://bcmos.org/volunteer/ to learn more.”