Troy Yungblut
Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services
I can’t pinpoint the exact moment I first started donating to Federated Health Charities. Back then, I didn’t have a specific charity I focused on, so I directed my money to be divided amongst all 21 health charities. I just knew it was important to give what I could.
When Life Changes Overnight
But then, everything changed for me in 2020. That’s the year I was diagnosed with a brain tumour.
Suddenly, health wasn’t an abstract cause anymore. It wasn’t something happening “out there.” It was happening to me. From that point on, every donation I made went straight to the Canadian Cancer Society – Ontario. It felt personal, purposeful – like a way to fight back, support research, and help others going through the same frightening, uncertain journey.
Seeing the Need Up Close
Working as the Manager in the Stratford ODSP office, I see every day how quickly life can change for people. Many of the individuals who come to us for income support are dealing with cancer, mental health challenges, or other devastating health issues. Seeing that up close, day after day, reinforces my belief that giving back matters. When someone is struggling – when their world suddenly shifts – community support can make all the difference.
Giving Back Because We Can
That’s one of the reasons I always encourage my colleagues to donate. We’re fortunate – we have steady jobs, steady incomes, and the ability to carve out a small portion of what we earn to help health charities that may one day help us, or someone we love. And the truth is, in a workplace as large as ours, many people are touched by cancer or mental health challenges. More than we realize.
Raising Funds, Raising Spirits
Raising money doesn’t have to be serious all the time, either. I really believe in the power of fun, office-driven fundraising – pancake breakfasts, bake sales, activities that bring people together. Initiatives that raise awareness, raise money, and do wonders for staff engagement. There’s real value in rallying people, getting colleagues excited, and building momentum around a cause. It brings out strengths and connections you don’t always see in the day to day.
Why I Joined the Advisory Council
After my diagnosis, I felt compelled to raise awareness about brain tumours, support cancer charities, and connect with others who share my commitment to giving back. Serving on the Advisory Council lets me do that – it allows me to contribute beyond donations and use my experiences to support others.
One Person, Real Impact
I may be one person in a big organization, but I know the difference one person can make. And that’s why I give back – because we never know when we’ll need the same support ourselves, and because no one should ever face a health journey alone.
