Dartmouth volunteer launches new path west

David Leblanc departs the Dartmouth Community Health Board (CHB) later this summer and heads across the country equipped with knowledge of grassroots health needs and a drive to bolster mental health and wellness care.

David enjoyed two years on the CHB, where he reviewed wellness fund applications, offered community insight, and often jumped in to help with technology. The experience had a long-lasting influence on him as he prepares for graduate studies out west this fall.

“Being a CHB member opened my eyes to the wonderful volunteer organizations and projects in Dartmouth,” he says. “I’ve been able to develop meaningful advocacy and interpersonal skills during my time on the board.”

David, born and raised in Dartmouth, recently graduated from Dalhousie University with a bachelor of arts in psychology and philosophy. Soon, he will begin a master of social work degree at the University of British Columbia. The move is exciting but leaving the board is difficult, he says.

He joined the CHB at a time when he was searching for volunteer work that aligned with his interest in mental health and community well‑being. He had already served on the Canadian Bioethics Society’s volunteer board and discovered he enjoyed the collaborative, purpose‑driven nature of board work.

The wellness fund committee quickly became his favourite part of the role. Reading proposals from local groups reminded him how many people in Dartmouth work quietly and passionately in the background to support their neighbours.

“It was really cool seeing all these projects people are doing,” he says. “I wish we could have funded them all. There’s just so much happening.”

A highlight for him was the annual grant ceremony, where recipients gathered to share their work. David says it was inspiring to learn about the projects.

“It’s easy to forget, in daily life, how many people care about people,” he suggests.

David encourages students like him to consider joining a CHB. He describes the commitment as manageable, the environment welcoming and impact meaningful.

“You’ll meet some of the loveliest and most caring people in your community.”

As he looks ahead to becoming a clinical social worker, David says he hopes to offer both individual and group therapy. He wants to share strategies that helped him and others, such as simple tools for managing stress and staying focused on personal goals.

He also hopes more young people will join boards like the CHB, noting the value of diverse perspectives in community decision‑making. 

Photo of David Leblanc.