For Clint Clark, volunteerism is more than a pastime—it’s a way of life rooted in community and connection. Raised in the tight-knit town of Cartwright, Newfoundland and Labrador, Clint made the move to Happy-Valley Goose Bay in 1996 to attend the College of the North Atlantic. There, he trained as a Licensed Practical Nurse and built a career spanning 18 years in physiotherapy and long-term care, with a strong focus on recreation therapy. But beyond his professional life, Clint has always found time to give back.
He has volunteered as a coach for Team Indigenous at the NL Winter and Summer Games, as well as with the Lake Melville Xtreme Minor Hockey Association and the Lake Melville Soccer and Minor Baseball Clubs. Clint also plays an active role in local sports, working as a referee for soccer and hockey tournaments, and serving as an official at the Labrador Winter Games and Northern Games.
From Snowshoe Races to Hockey Rinks: A Life of Volunteering
Clint’s first official volunteer experience took place in Goose Bay in 1997, when he served as a Safety Marshal for a local snowshoe race. Just 23 years old at the time, he was no stranger to sports—having played, refereed, and participated in various roles throughout his life. “I grew up playing sports and always being around the rink or the field,” he says. “Volunteering just felt like a natural extension of that.”
The drive to volunteer came from watching others in his hometown do the same. “I always saw people in my community helping out, whether it be at the rink, the field or the track,” Clint recalls. “I just loved sports and always wanted to be a part of it.”
Giving Without Expectation
When asked what he gains from volunteering, Clint’s answer is humble and sincere: “I volunteer to give back. I never got into it to get something out of it.” For Clint, it’s about continuing the cycle of support that he witnessed growing up—ensuring that local sports and events have the helping hands they need to thrive.
Passing It On: Volunteering with Family
Clint’s commitment to giving back is something he’s passed on to his son, Carter. The two have volunteered together at events, including the Trapline Marathon—an annual road race held in Happy-Valley Goose Bay. Clint recalls the early morning start, leaving Goose Bay at 6 a.m. to support the marathon all the way to North West River. While Clint monitored traffic alongside fellow volunteers, Carter biked alongside the runners, covering the middle leg of the route.
“It was a great opportunity for him to be a part of it,” Clint shares.
Like his father, Carter grew up playing sports in his hometown. Clint urged for his son to get involved in volunteering through officiating youth hockey. A chance to do good and learn more about his favourite sport.
“He sees volunteering as his way to give back to the community—and to a sport that’s given so much to him.”
The Power of One Helping Hand
What stands out most for Clint is the simple truth that every bit of help matters. “There’s always room for someone to lend a hand. A little bit goes a long way,” he says. “It’s one less thing the organizing group has to worry about.”
The impact of volunteers can’t be overstated. Whether it’s the grateful thanks from fellow volunteers, or the joy on the faces of young athletes, Clint knows it’s all worth it. “Just seeing those smiles and the enjoyment—it makes it all worthwhile.”
A Legacy of Community
Clint Clark’s story reminds us that volunteerism doesn’t require grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s just about showing up, doing your part, and passing that spirit of giving on to the next generation. In Happy-Valley Goose Bay and beyond, volunteers like Clint keep the heart of the community beating strong.
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