Volunteer Spotlight: Sarah Murphy

In every community, certain individuals quietly weave threads of belonging, compassion, and care. At PARN – Peterborough AIDS Resource Network, Sarah Murphy is one of those people.

For the past two years, Sarah has been a deeply valued volunteer. She not only shows up with dependability and joy, but she goes out of her way to ensure that others feel seen, welcomed, and supported.

Creating Safe Spaces and Social Connections

Seeing a need in the community for safe, affirming spaces, Sarah took the initiative to start Social Connections, a social group for LGBTQIA+ individuals in Peterborough. What began as a heartfelt idea has blossomed into a thriving support network. This happened thanks to Sarah’s commitment and her deep roots in the community.

She’s out there, day after day, connecting with people, spreading the word. Further, she brings folks together in a space where they can be themselves, make friends, and feel valued.

Supporting with Compassion and Consistency

Beyond her work with Social Connections, Sarah also volunteers weekly assembling harm reduction supply kits. These get distributed across the City of Peterborough and the surrounding four counties. As a result, her contributions play a vital role in reducing harm and increasing safety for individuals across a broad region.

At the heart of all her work is approachability, thoughtfulness, and joy. Sarah is described as one of the happiest people you’ll meet – always smiling, always listening, and always helping wherever she’s needed.

A Heartfelt Moment

One story that captures Sarah’s warmth happened in the PARN office:
She walked in and handed her colleague a coupon.
What did it say?
“Good for 1 free hug.”
They both laughed – and in that small moment, the spirit of Sarah’s volunteerism was perfectly summed up: thoughtful, generous, and rooted in human connection.

Thank you, Sarah, for bringing heart, humour, and hope into everything you do. You remind us that community begins with kindness, and that small acts of care can make a big difference.

Nominated by Bridget Hall, on behalf of PARN.