Every Path Is Intertwined: Ron’s Journey as a Volunteer

For Ron Imeltchouk, volunteering at New Directions isn’t just about gaining experience in the social services sector, it has become a turning point in a lifelong search for meaning and connection.

Ron began volunteering just over four months ago, after exploring a range of academic programs and career paths. With a Human Resource diploma from Red River College Polytech, he initially explored work in that field before shifting gears. “I enjoyed working with people,” he says, “but I realized I wanted to make a different kind of impact.”
That realization led him to pursue a psychology degree with a minor in philosophy at the University of Winnipeg. “Every academic journey I’ve taken so far has led me to realize that I love helping people,” Ron explains. “And every path I’ve taken is intertwined, each one brought me closer to what I really want to do.”

With plans to become a counsellor or therapist, Ron decided to volunteer with New Directions to learn about connecting with people on a deeper level. He first heard about the opportunity during a presentation on research and volunteer positions at the University of Winnipeg, and soon after began his placement with New Directions.

Now, Ron serves as an Assistant Instructor in the Training Opportunities for Youth program, a role that requires him to wear many hats. “I help tutor students, supervise, make sure their work gets done, help them with reading or written work, and even go on field trips,” he says. “Mostly, I try to connect and motivate, to meet them where they’re at.”
His time at New Directions has helped confirm that he’s on the right path. “This experience has solidified my passion for working with people and making a change for the better,” he reflects. “It’s been a wonderful journey.”

One of the most powerful moments came when Ron witnessed a group of students graduate. “To be there with them from the beginning of the program, when many of them were scared and skeptical, and then to see them with their families celebrating, it was great,” he shares. “That moment made everything feel so real.”

Working alongside staff, social workers, and other volunteers has also shifted his perspective on the power of support work. “It opened my eyes. It made me more ambitious, even just being someone who can sit and listen to someone’s burden makes a difference,” he says. “I realized how much the work done here matters.”
The role has also impacted Ron on a deeper level. “It’s made me more sensitive, more open, and more understanding,” he says. “One piece of advice from my supervisor stuck with me in particular, it was: the best thing to do is to leave all your biased opinions at the door, even the unconscious ones.”

Now, when asked what he’d say to someone considering volunteering, Ron is honest, “Expect everyone at New Directions to be super nice and friendly, but also expect to put in the work. It won’t be the easiest thing ever, but it will be the most rewarding.”
As he continues his path towards becoming a counsellor, Ron carries forward the lessons, relationships, and quiet moments of transformation that have shaped his time here. In his words, “every path is intertwined” and for Ron, this one is just getting started.