Volunteer Spotlight: Morley Lertzman
At 95 years old, Morley is still going strong—and giving back. A retired doctor and professor of medicine, Morley moved to North Vancouver from Winnipeg in 2002 and quickly found connection and purpose at Parkgate Society.
“I didn’t know many people when I moved here,” he recalls. “So, I got to know the community centre. That was the beginning.” His first volunteer role? Making egg salad sandwiches in the kitchen. Years later, he’s still active—both behind the scenes and in the community.
Today, Morley plays a vital role in the Current Events Discussion Group, What’s News, a long-running, thoughtful gathering of community members who explore global, national, and local issues. Originally part of Capilano University’s Elder College program, the group eventually moved to Parkgate Community Centre, where Morley has been involved for over two decades.
Now serving as the group’s senior advisor, he helps shape weekly agendas and continues to present on a wide range of topics—from international politics to environmental issues. “It’s not just discussion,” he explains. “It’s a continuing educational experience. People research, they debate, and they grow together.”
He speaks with admiration of the group’s diverse backgrounds—social workers, engineers, accountants, dietitians, teachers, architects, doctors, and former lumber industry professionals. “It’s become a group of friends. Some of us even go to lunch together. There’s real camaraderie.”
Outside his discussion group, Morley volunteers in the Parkgate kitchen, slicing tomatoes and chatting with staff. “It’s fun, it’s educational, and I’ve even improved my own cooking,” he says with a smile.
Volunteering also carries personal meaning for Morley. His late wife, who lived with Alzheimer’s, was part of Parkgate’s My Parkgate Break dementia program. “I felt I owed something to Parkgate,” he says simply. That sense of gratitude and purpose led him to volunteer regularly—where he continues to show up, contribute, and build new connections in the same community that once supported him and his family.
In honour of his wife and to help ensure others can benefit from the same support they received, Morley also established The Joy Fund—a legacy fund dedicated to sustaining and enhancing the My Parkgate Break program for years to come.
His three words to describe volunteering? Educational. Fun. Social.
Morley’s impact stretches beyond Parkgate. He’s volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, taught medical students into his 80s, and even sells poppies with the Royal Canadian Legion. “By yourself, you can only do so much. But in a group, you can make a real difference.”
Morley remains a powerful example of what it means to live with purpose, curiosity, and generosity. Whether he’s facilitating discussion, lending a hand in the kitchen, or simply showing up with a kind word, his presence makes Parkgate stronger and more connected.
As he continues volunteering, staying active, and learning something new every day, Morley reminds us that community service isn’t just about giving back—it’s about staying engaged in the world around us, at every stage of life.
Inspired by Morley’s story? Discover how you can make a difference too—visit parkgatesociety.ca/get-involved/volunteer to learn more about volunteering with Parkgate Society.
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