May 22
At Innovation Works, we’re fortunate to have a dedicated team of volunteers who support our Welcome Desk, our Wellness Works program and many other important projects throughout our organization. Our volunteers are a key component of our community each bringing their own diverse backgrounds and talents to their posts. We hope you’ll follow along for our series of volunteer profiles to get to know the stellar folks we rely on to help Innovation Works thrive.
Where are you from and how did you land in London?
I am originally from France (through Germany and Toronto). I came to Canada in 2007 and moved to London when my wife received a position at Western.
Tell us about your education and professional background.
Trained as a teacher, I am very interested in social finance and social enterprise. I hope to create efficient systems and structures to help the more vulnerable segment of the population (ASD and mental health). I am currently working at creating a turnaround fund to reward high school students for turning their lives around.
What cause are you most passionate about?
Mental health and housing.
Why did you want to volunteer at Innovation Works?
I find the mission of the space meaningful.
What is the best thing that’s happened for you as a result of volunteering at Innovation Works?
I have had the opportunity to meet the amazing team at Pillar, got to co-chair a weekly wellness conversation, and encountered an opportunity to help with a low-income housing project in London.
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve learned as a result of volunteering at Innovation Works?
I’ve been able to learn who is who in London and expand my network.
If Aurelien’s story inspires you to consider volunteering for Innovation Works, learn more here.