Passion to Advocate
Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women
In late January 2014, a deeply distressing event occurred when Nichole Yamchuk's ex-sister-in-law went missing. Tragically, just a few days later in early February 2014, it was revealed that she had been killed, and her body discarded.
As Nichole became aware that February 14th was designated as the National Missing and Murdered Indigenous March, observed in solidarity across major cities on Turtle Island (Canada), she felt compelled to take action. After discovering that no one was organizing such a march in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
With a mere three days to prepare, Nichole made the courageous decision to host Saskatoon's inaugural MMIW March. The event was meticulously arranged, with police escorts ensuring safety, media outlets informed and in attendance, and speakers representing all levels, including family members, city officials, and government representatives. Remarkably, over 100 individuals from various surrounding communities participated in the march.
Nichole's dedication to this cause continued for three years, during which she successfully organized the event, even including a Round Dance in 2016. Eventually, she entrusted a local nonprofit organization with the responsibility of leading the event and overseeing the community's inquiry into the over 1,200 missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls in Canada. Her efforts have left a profound impact on the community, raising awareness and advocating for justice for those affected by this tragic issue.
A hand panted sign by Nichole Yamchuk, 2014.
#AlwaysRemember #CourtneyBreannaJohnstone #MMIW
Accessibility & Inclusion
As a neurodivergent individual with a hearing loss, Nichole has always been a passionate advocate for disability rights and inclusion. Throughout her personal journey, she has been acutely aware of the persistent gap in accessibility that exists across diverse age groups and disabilities. This includes individuals with physical limitations, intellectual disabilities, and invisible impairments like herself.
Nichole, together with Advocate Fundraising, firmly believes in the principles of inclusion and accessibility for all. Advocating for a more supportive and inclusive environment for individuals of varying abilities is central to the work she does. She recognizes the importance of accommodating and supporting those who may require additional assistance, from limited mobility to various cognitive or sensory differences.
Nichole’s 2021 birthday fundraiser (peer-to-peer) video to support the Sam Sullivan Disability Foundation and its 6 affiliated partners.
netClé
Between 2019 and 2022, Nichole was a part of the team that facilitated the successful market launch of the netClé (pronounced net-clay) device for Tetra Society of North America, as a part of their Social Enterprise initiative. The netClé device was developed to enhance accessibility for individuals with limited hand and/or arm mobility/function, providing them with a more customized and user-friendly way to operate their computers. The netClé device comes with a range of add-ons, including:
Sensors
Small and Large Joysticks
Switches
Head Gyro
If you or someone you know could benefit from this remarkable accessibility tool, we invite you to click the link below for further information and assistance.
Youth and Mental Health
Picture this: it's 2014, and Nichole is sitting in a volunteer interview. The interviewer poses the question, "What's your driving force?" Without hesitation, she responds, "See a need, fill a need." And so began her journey with Kids Help Phone, where she was brought into the role of Volunteer Coordinator. But her work went beyond volunteer coordination - she was a leader in communicating with sponsors and fulfilling any and all necessary tasks. Don't believe us? Just ask the plaque on her wall recognizing her as the "2014 Volunteer of the Year," which she earned with the help of her son.
Fast forward almost a decade, and Nichole's passion for advocacy hasn't faltered. Now, as the Owner of Advocate Fundraising, she and her team are working on a top-secret project with a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the mental health of youth. We can't tell you much now, but keep an eye out for updates on this incredible project that is sure to make a positive impact on the lives of many. See a need, fill a need, indeed!
Global Advocacy
Nichole, in collaboration with Advocate Fundraising, is a passionate advocate of global advocacy. They believe it fosters cooperation and solidarity, laying the foundation for sustainable development and lasting peace. Nichole is committed to amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, promoting human rights, and holding violators accountable by influencing policy and legal changes at an international level. Their main focus is on improving child protection, healthcare, education, and access to clean water and sanitation in Central Africa, where she also advocates for programs to combat the high infant mortality rates. Nichole aims to create a more equitable and compassionate world through collective efforts in partnership and fundraising with/for International Non-Profit Organizations.
To get a better understanding of the struggles in Central Africa, it can be as easy as watching a movie. “Machine Gun Preacher” starring Gerard Butler, is based on the true story of Sam Childers. It is a must see!
Slava Ukraini
With Ukrainian heritage deeply ingrained in her background, Nichole has actively engaged in the Ukrainian Canadian community for numerous years. Her commitment has extended to serving on the Board of "St. Volodymyr Ukrainian Catholic Eparchial Camp," leading Pysanky workshops, and ensuring her son's enrollment in a Ukrainian school to foster his understanding of the language, culture, and traditions, alongside embracing Ukrainian Dance.
However, the eruption of the war on Ukraine on February 24, 2022, prompted Nichole and Advocate Fundraising to take further action. They have not only been instrumental in raising funds for Ukraine but have also played a crucial role in facilitating the resettlement of 12 families seeking refuge in Canada, with Nichole personally hosting one of these families in her own home. Collaborating with various organizations, both local and international, Advocate Fundraising is unwavering in its dedication to contribute meaningfully to the support and relief efforts for Ukraine during these challenging times.
Nichole ran her annual birthday fundraiser in 2023 dedicating all funds to Ukrainian Military! Here we showcase how easy a peer-to-peer fundraiser can be!
Posing with the Ukrainian Mother she hosted.
Attending local rallies to denounce the war on Ukraine with friends, family, and strangers alike.
Nichole meeting a family from Ukraine that she helped escape the war.