Mention his volunteer work at the Boys and Girls Club (BGC) of London to Jackson Findlay and he gets a big smile on his face.  

While studying at Western University, Jackson spent a couple of days each week at the BGC in downtown London. He’d play pickup sports with the kids, chat with them about what was going on in their lives and often connect with their parents afterward. 

Though it was officially a volunteer gig for Jackson, he sees his time at the club as much more than that.  

“My goal is to have an impact on someone’s life. I think volunteers can play a big role in inspiring kids to do great things. And in that sense, you can help them make their own communities a better place.”

Jackson is a busy guy. He just graduated from medical sciences at Western and wants to become a paediatric oncologist. But first, he has pro football in his sights. An acclaimed captain for the Western Mustangs, he was one of eight student-athletes nationwide chosen from 4,900 as a U Sports Academic All-Canadian. And he was picked up by the B.C. Lions in the second round of the 2025 CFL draft.

Born and raised in Vancouver, Jackson’s athletic talent seems to be in his DNA – his dad, uncle, grandfather and great grandfather all played in the CFL.  

He says the drive to volunteer also comes from his family.  

“My dad owns a gym. Through that, they've built a tight-knit community and they do a lot of philanthropy, donating to local organizations or providing opportunities for young athletes. So, my approach to volunteering has been instilled in me through my parents and their work.”

Jackson was a leader on the athlete student council at Western and encouraged his fellow student-athletes to get involved with BGC and other volunteer initiatives, emphasizing the importance of the work – and that it didn't take a lot of time.  

“Volunteering is like a gift. You're giving your time to make a lasting impact on someone’s life. In that sense, it's more valuable than financial support. I think people often have more time in their day than they realize.”

And he believes he has not only helped the kids he worked with, he’s passed on something that will stay with them.

“Many volunteers throughout my life have made an impact on me. I've been able to carry that forward, and give that back to the community in B.C., at Western and in London. I hope inspiring these kids will make them passionate about creating a better community as volunteers.”