"It's a great feeling when you can assist a passenger," shares Linda, a Goldwings volunteer for more than six years. “Even the smallest gesture can make a huge impact on someone's day."
Since its establishment in 1997, the Goldwings volunteer program at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport has been a shining example of service within Canada's aviation community. With more than 11,000 passengers passing through the airport daily, the Goldwings play a key role in ensuring a smooth travel experience. From guiding travellers with wayfinding to helping them navigate the check-in process, our volunteers are dedicated to enhancing the passenger journey. Their presence is a testament to our commitment to making every trip through our airport a pleasant and memorable one.
For the first time since 2018, we're expanding the Goldwings volunteer program, and recruitment is now open to those looking to share their famed "friendly Manitoba" spirit with passengers and visitors at YWG.
Why volunteer? For James, an avid traveller, it's an opportunity to share his enthusiasm for aviation with the community and carry on the legacy of his father, who volunteered for ten years before him. It allowed Carolyn to explore an industry she was always interested in but never had a chance to pursue earlier in life. Others love the social aspect of volunteering and getting to know the friendly faces within the airport. A big draw for students is gaining valuable credit hours and getting a foot in the door of the aviation industry. However, the common thread between all our volunteers is a love for connecting with people and being part of the heartfelt airport moments. From joyous reunions and tearful goodbyes to welcoming Ukrainian refugees to their new home, which Linda counts as the most memorable moment of her experience yet, the Goldwings are a beacon of compassion and support. As Murray puts it, "helping people and giving back is what being a Goldwing is all about."
If you’re ready to take off on a new journey, join the Goldwings volunteer team! Fill out an application form here.