Chris Braun - Making a Difference for Kids in Sports

Through his volunteer work at Vincent Massey Collegiate, Shamrock School and Riverview Community Club, Chris Braun has made a difference for many youngsters. He has a passion for sports, and has shared that passion with these youth by volunteering, coaching, fundraising and being a positive role model.

Chris clearly understands that being a good volunteer requires hard work and preparation, but he has proven that he cares enough to do what is needed. He has equipped himself well by obtaining his Level One Coaching Certificates in basketball and hockey, attending a school volunteer orientation session, and by obtaining his CPR and First Aid certificates. He has also learned from others, as he was mentored by older volunteers who showed him by example what it is to be a good community member.

For Chris, his volunteer work started at school when he became involved in organizing soccer tournaments and helping at cross country runs. From there he extended his passion for sports into the community and to Shamrock School.

At Shamrock School, he has been coaching junior high basketball. With this experience of working with younger students Chris came to understand the importance of good coaching. “I have come to learn the importance of goal setting, communication, and how leadership can affect self-concept. I understand that it is the coach’s job to help players stay positive and celebrate their individual accomplishments. I feel that I have encouraged active living and physical activity as important choices for young people.”

At the Riverview Community Club Chris has contributed by making ice and by collecting used skates for youth who could not afford equipment, thus offering them the chance to become involved in community club sports.

As to the impact he has had on kids he has coached, Chris explains, “I feel I have been a good role model, that I am approachable and that I have developed a good rapport with them. I feel that they have an understanding that volunteering is about giving back, and in my case, in doing something you are passionate about.”

Thanks to his efforts Chris was a recipient of a Manitoba Youth Leadership Scholarship and is attending the University of Winnipeg.