Posted by A Volunteer’s Memoir
Chris Snyder believes there is much more good in the world than bad. And, in Creating Opportunities—A Volunteer’s Memoir, he takes us on a tour through the streets of Bombay, rural Malawi and high-powered boardrooms to tell us why. Chock full of interesting people and compelling anecdotes, it is one book everyone involved in charity, whether staff, donor or volunteer, should read.
“Not only is volunteering for every age, but it is also for every stage of life,” Chris says. The book outlines volunteer activities as they coincide with life milestones “be it as a young person just starting out, expanding one’s experience from a boring job or keeping active, young and useful in retirement.” And at the end of every chapter, he asks questions to encourage further thought, discussion and action.
Creating Opportunities—A Volunteer’s Memoir is a fascinating trip through time and place, but it also provides advice for those who’ve found meaning—or would like to find meaning—in volunteering. Chris Snyder’s generous heart and good humour shines through every page of Creating Opportunities—A Volunteer’s Memoir.
Praise for Creating Opportunities—A Volunteer’s Memoir
“Creating Opportunities is an inspiring roadmap of service and giving that others will certainly learn from.”
— The Right Honourable David Johnston, C.C. Governor General of Canada 2010-2017
“Chris’ early lack of awareness of the Indigenous situation in Canada grew into a passion for working with Indigenous peoples. Even if you only read the chapter on Canada’s First Peoples, it will be time well-spent and as a result you will become involved in the important movement towards reconciliation.”
— Hon. James Bartleman, Lieutenant Governor, ON 2002-2007; Diplomat; Author; Member of the Chippewas of Rama First Nation.
“Chris Snyder has provided a significant humanitarian service that has saved many lives and provided hope to thousands. For five years he chaired the Canadian Landmine Foundation that supported landmine removal projects around the world and aided in the rehabilitation of landmine victims.”
— Lloyd Axworthy, Former Minister of External Affairs Canada; Nobel Peace Prize nominee for Ottawa Treaty on Landmines; Past President, University of Winnipeg; and Chair, CUSO
“Creating Opportunities clearly articulates the joy and benefits for all who become involved in helping others to overcome obstacles and adversity in their life. I recommend this book to all Rotarians, as well as to anyone who currently volunteers or is considering volunteering in the future.”
— Wilfrid Wilkinson OC, FCPA, President of Rotary International 2007-2008
“If you want a hands-on ‘how to’ guide to building a better world, read this wonderful book”
— Dr. James Orbinski, Past President Doctors Without Borders (MSF) Nobel Peace Prize Recipient for MSF
“Creating Opportunities is a revelation—a rare peek behind the scenes of what it’s like to be a life-long volunteer in some of the world’s leading charities told with a warm and generous heart.”
— Gail Picco, Nonprofit Consultant and Author, Cap in Hand
“…a joyful sharing of Chris’ life journey as a global citizen and volunteer”.
— Rosemary McCarney, BA, LLB, MBA, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada to the United Nations and the Conference on Disarmament, Past President Plan International Canada
“…he doesn’t dwell on whether the project is doable, instead he skips directly to brainstorming the ‘how’ and ‘when’ it will get done. This attitude has led to his involvement in countless successful projects…These are the experiences detailed in this thoughtful and engaging memoir.”
— Jeff Dobson, President, The Rotary Club of Toronto 2018-19
“This masterful book and the stories within it offer a moving legacy for others to follow.”
— Ranachith “Ronnie” Yimsut, Founder/Chair of Bakong Technical College (BTC); Siem Reap Cambodia
“I gained new friends, a sense of fulfillment and learned what is important in life. I would do it all again in a minute! This book is a moving re-telling of some of these experiences. Thanks Chris.”
— Dr. Elizabeth McLean (Retired)
“Besides telling an engaging story of a life well-lived, this book is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to know where to start in making the world a better place.”
— Karihwakeron Tim Thompson, Indigenous Educational Consultant; Past Director Education Assembly of First Nations
“This book is a truly inspirational how-to guide to volunteering and embracing the volunteer spirit.”
— Dr. Wendy Wong, former Director of the Trudeau Centre For Peace, Conflict and Justice School at the Munk Centre, University of Toronto
8.5 x 5.5 – 408 Pages – $32.95
