Programs Archives - Global Gathering Place

Volunteer Finds Meaning by Giving Back to the Community That Supported Her

ggpadmin — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 22:35:00 +0000

Volunteer Finds Meaning by Giving Back to the Community That Supported Her

Laura Cuizara moved to Canada in 2024 from Bolivia, where she was met with support, kindness, and a community that welcomed her in. Just over a year later, she is the one offering that same welcome to others as a Global Gathering Place volunteer. “[GGP has] provided me with opportunities to learn, connect with the community, and better understand my new home. By volunteering, I hope to contribute to the well-being of others and help create positive experiences similar to those I have had,” Laura says.

Laura first began volunteering with GGP at the beginning of this year in our CNC (Care for Newcomer Children) program that provides childminding to support our clients participating in our English classes and programming. In April, Laura began volunteering in our Computer Classes as well where she is able to use her background in IT to share her knowledge of computers and technology.

Laura loves that volunteering gives her the opportunity to meet new people, practise her English, and strengthen her personal skills like communication, empathy, and teamwork. “I am grateful for all the support I have received since arriving in Canada, and volunteering gives me the opportunity to give back to the community that has supported me. Knowing that I can make a positive difference, even in a small way, is incredibly rewarding.”

Laura’s favourite thing about volunteering with GGP is the opportunity to truly help others and witness the impact that even a small contribution can make. “Whenever I see a child learn something through an activity I helped with, or when I am able to help someone in the computer classes understand a concept they were struggling with, I feel that my day was truly worthwhile.”

Laura also notes that volunteering is a learning experience for her as well. “I continue to learn from the people around me every day, whether it is new vocabulary, different perspectives, or simply seeing the world through someone else’s eyes. My mother was a teacher, and growing up I often helped with activities involving children. I admire their curiosity, creativity, and endless energy. Their enthusiasm for learning and exploring new things is inspiring, and it reminds me to approach life with the same sense of curiosity and positivity.” Volunteering with GGP has shown Laura that “by contributing, sharing, and participating, we not only support others but also grow in ways we do not expect.”

Laura has many experiences that stand out to her over her time of volunteering. Laura recollects a certain client in a Computer Class that reminded her of her mother. “It was her first class, and she struggled with using the mouse, typing on the keyboard, and following the activities. At first, I tried explaining the steps verbally, but I realized she was not fully understanding. So, I changed my approach and began showing her each step visually. Little by little, she improved, and we were able to complete the activity together. She was very happy when she finished and thanked me with a hug, which was very meaningful to me, like receiving a hug from my mother. In the following classes, I saw her gaining more confidence and progressing quickly.” This experience reminded Laura of her own challenges when she first came to Canada: “the frustration of not understanding instructions, feeling lost, and struggling to keep up with others. It made me very happy to be able to support her, guide her, and help her achieve her goal. Seeing her progress was just as rewarding for me as it was for her.”

We are so happy to have volunteers like Laura in our CNC and Computer programs. It is deeply impactful for us to see clients reach a point where they are able to help others settle in Saskatoon, and we thank Laura for her incredible dedication to do so!

The post Volunteer Finds Meaning by Giving Back to the Community That Supported Her appeared first on Global Gathering Place.

Student Volunteer finds Community and Belonging at GGP

ggpadmin — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 20:23:01 +0000

Student Volunteer finds Community and Belonging at GGP

Fatima began volunteering with GGP in 2025 as a student volunteer. She initially joined us at Ride for Refuge and continued volunteering with GGP in our Computer Classes as well as in our Family Skating programs, where we take clients to the Meewasin Rink for afternoon skates.

Fatima’s family immigrated to Canada when she was five years old. She shares that “growing up, I saw the difficulties [my family] faced as they worked to settle and adapt. Those experiences made me aware of how overwhelming settlement can be and motivated me to support newcomers facing similar challenges.”

Fatima looks forward to continuing to volunteer with Global Gathering Place because of the strong sense of community and purpose it provides. “Seeing newcomers grow more confident and connected motivates me to stay involved,” she says. “I most enjoy the sense of community and cultural exchange at GGP. Hearing people’s stories and seeing them develop a sense of belonging is incredibly meaningful.”

Fatima reflects that “volunteering has shown me the resilience and determination required to start over in a new country. I wish more native-born Canadians understood that newcomers bring valuable skills and perspectives, and that integration takes time, patience, and compassion.”

Our student volunteers make up a large and important part of our volunteer force, and we thank them for the countless hours they have dedicated to Global Gathering Place.

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BrightStart! Volunteer Regularly Witnesses the Patience, Endurance, and Resilience of Clients

ggpadmin — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 16:13:47 +0000

BrightStart! Volunteer Regularly Witnesses the Patience, Endurance, and Resilience of Clients

Uchechi began volunteering with Global Gathering Place this year through our BrightStart! program that supports newcomer women and their young children. The BrightStart! program offers a welcoming environment for newcomer mothers to build community, access resources, and receive support as they adjust to life in a new country. This program also provides developmental activities for their children, helping them learn, play, and socialize together.

As a University of Regina faculty member, one of Uchechi’s primary responsibilities is to engage in community service that aligns with her area of expertise, maternal health experiences. She recalls having lunch with a colleague who expressed interest in her research. “During our conversation, she also shared her experience volunteering with Global Gathering Place. I was deeply impressed by her insights and became increasingly interested in learning more about the organization. Her account inspired me to explore ways I could support newcomer women and their children as they navigate an especially challenging period in their lives. Understanding newcomers’ experiences is essential, as these insights assist in informing and enhancing approaches tailored to their needs, ultimately ensuring more effective and appropriate support.”

Uchechi describes the excitement that she feels each Friday when joining BrightStart! “I have begun to form meaningful relationships with many of the women and their children. Each week, as I continue to interact with them, I see their growing comfort, trust, and willingness to share their experiences. What also keeps me motivated is the constant influx of new participants—almost every week, new women join the group. Watching them gradually connect with other mothers, build friendships, and engage more confidently with the facilitators has been incredibly rewarding. Being part of such a supportive and welcoming environment—where women uplift one another, and children continue to grow and thrive—makes volunteering with GGP a truly fulfilling experience that I look forward to every week.”

Uchechi has enjoyed every aspect of this volunteer role, as it has allowed her to meet weekly with women from diverse countries and ethnic backgrounds who demonstrate remarkable patience, endurance, and resilience. Volunteering has been able to deepen Uchechi’s understanding of Canadian society and its social norms. “Contributing to the community has given me a strong sense of purpose and has helped me feel more integrated and valued in my new environment.”

Uchechi’s volunteer position at Global Gathering Place is especially meaningful for her as it relates to her research on maternal health. “I am originally from Nigeria and have pioneered several volunteer initiatives in my home state, Kogi State. As a nurse/midwife in my country, I have conducted several voluntary activities in rural areas of Kogi East, Nigeria, providing maternal health services and health education to rural women. This activity has enhanced maternal health outcomes in these communities and enhanced the early Identification and treatment of women with maternal health complications to reduce maternal morbidity and death.”

Uchechi notes that being a volunteer with newcomers at Global Gathering Place in Saskatoon has profoundly expanded her worldview by giving her a firsthand understanding of the complex challenges that newcomers—particularly women—face as they settle in Canada. “Many struggle with language barriers, social isolation, and emotional stress, all of which can limit their access to essential services and opportunities,” Uchechi says. “I have also come to recognize that, although many of these women outwardly project resilience, they often carry a quiet yet deep longing to integrate into their new communities fully. Many newcomer women hope to reunite with their husbands and children, build a future together, and establish a sense of belonging in their new environment. These newcomer women’s consistent participation in weekly activities speaks to their determination and willingness to learn, adapt, and create better lives for themselves and their families.”

Uchechi says, “being part of the BrightStart! program has allowed me to witness the value of this space for newcomer women and their children. The BrightStart! program provides a safe and supportive environment where they can ask questions—particularly about health, education, childcare, immunization, and navigating the Canadian healthcare system. The program not only meets their immediate needs but also empowers them with knowledge and confidence as they navigate their settlement journey.”

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Student Volunteers are an Integral Part of our Volunteer Force

ggpadmin — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 22:06:22 +0000

Student Volunteers are an Integral Part of our Volunteer Force

We are incredibly fortunate to be a part of a community that places such a strong emphasis on the importance and impact of volunteering. This fall, we are honoured to house a number of student volunteers at GGP who are assisting us in a variety of areas. These opportunities are incredibly important to both GGP and our student partnerships. We welcome enthusiastic and committed volunteers, and students gain invaluable experience, sensitivity, and competency in serving immigrants and refugees in the community.

We currently have students from the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, St. Thomas More College, and the Leslie and Irene Dubé School of Nursing completing community-based learning placements at GGP. These students support a variety of programs, including our ESL and Computer Classes, CNC (Care for Newcomer Children), the Flu Clinic, Coffee & Conversation, and Family, Fun, & Fit.

We are so lucky to also have a group of second-year law students with us each Friday this school year to assist clients with Citizenship applications through PBSC (Pro Bono Students Canada). PBSC seeks to provide free legal support to people and communities facing barriers to justice. These students are able to help our clients with the complicated terminology and legalese involved in the application forms and help organize the correct documents needed. Each of these students volunteers their time outside of their required classes and has chosen GGP as their area of interest. One of the law students attributes her interest in being placed at Global Gathering Place as she is the daughter of a refugee. She states that it is an honour for her to give back to other newcomers in this meaningful way while becoming one step closer to her career in immigration law.

We are again hosting student volunteers from the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Nursing each Thursday and Friday as part of their Community Nursing Placement. These students bring a strong focus on health and wellness to everything they do and have become a wonderful addition to our programs and daily activities. This fall, they also organized a Winter Drive throughout October, collecting much-needed winter clothing for our clients – many of whom will be experiencing their first winter in Saskatoon.

The three of them reflect on their time at GGP, noting, “we’ve really enjoyed our experience at GGP so far. There has been a plethora of opportunities for us to learn, grow, and give back to our community. The staff have been incredibly supportive, inclusive, and collaborative. One highlight of our experience was our winter clothing drive. Thanks to support from staff, generous donors from our community, and our clinical instructor Dawna, the project was a huge success. We are grateful for this community nursing experience and look forward to learning more.”

Our Volunteer Coordinator, Jasmine Shahbazi Doran, says, “student volunteers are an integral part of our volunteer force here at GGP. In many cases, student volunteers are some of our most regular and reliable volunteers. Student volunteers are particularly wonderful to work with as they are often eager to learn best practices and how they can help newcomers in practical ways.”

Throughout the year, we often have between twenty and thirty student volunteers placed at GGP. Each year, we have several student volunteers who serve above and beyond their required hours and remain as volunteers for months to years after their official placement has ended.

“I love working with student volunteers,” Jasmine says. “They have a strong sense of altruism and a keen desire to positively impact their community. I particularly enjoy seeing the growth of many students throughout their placement. Some of our student volunteers are required to complete and submit mid-point and final evaluations with me as a class requirement. Many students go from wondering how their time with us relates to their field of interest to describing the invaluable experience they gained at GGP and how it will positively influence their future practice when working with newcomers.”

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Finding a True Sense of Belonging in a New Country

ggpadmin — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 21:32:53 +0000

Finding a True Sense of Belonging in a New Country

Bissan shares about her “beautiful experience in Canada—an experience that truly became beautiful only after joining Global Gathering Place.”

Bissan arrived in Canada in September 2024 with her husband and four young children. Bissan and her husband were both born and raised in Gaza and later moved to Malaysia for her husband’s work, where she gave birth to all of her children. Bissan says that when the war broke out in Gaza, “we suffered tremendous losses, including family members and our homes, we literally lost everything. Given these circumstances, we decided to move to another country to ensure a safer life and a better future for our children, as returning to Gaza was not a viable option if our visa in Malaysia expired.” They began the search for a safe country to live in peacefully to protect their children. Bissan says, “we chose Canada to build a new life. The journey to move here was not easy; it came with many challenges and adjustments. However, connecting with GGP made a huge difference.”

Upon arriving in Canada, Bissan and her family quickly found their way to GGP, providing invaluable support to help the family settle and meet their essential needs as newcomers. “Participating in the BrightStart! program with my children was especially meaningful, it allowed me to spend quality time with them, play together, and see them enjoy time with other kids. I often say that joining GGP protected me from the feelings of depression that many newcomers experience.” Bissan also took part in our Employment Ready programming, helping her to create a strong résumé and cover letter and supporting her to find a job at the University of Saskatchewan. “The programs offered by GGP were incredibly helpful and gave us a true sense of belonging, almost as if we were finally at home.”

Bissan discusses her initial feelings upon landing in Canada and the anxiety that she faced for both her and her children when moving to a new country with many changes, however, the negative feelings that she feared never happened. “Joining Global Gathering Place made a huge difference for me and my family. It helped us connect, adapt quickly, and learn about all the services that support newcomers. I will always be grateful to this wonderful organization.”

Bissan’s goal for the future is to continue developing professional skills, contribute positively to this community, and provide a stable and happy life for her family. She advises other newcomers to stay connected, get involved in community programs, and never hesitate to ask for help. “Organizations like GGP truly make the journey easier and help newcomers feel that they belong.”

Bissan says, “I want to thank every person who works with such sincerity and dedication in this caring and cooperative organization. I wish you all continued success in helping immigrants and refugees build new lives in Canada.”

The post Finding a True Sense of Belonging in a New Country appeared first on Global Gathering Place.

Staying Open-Minded and Resilient in a New Country

ggpadmin — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 17:39:28 +0000

Programs

Umali was born in Sri Lanka, later moving to Doha in 2015, where she built a decade-long career with Qatar Airways. Recently, she relocated to Canada as a permanent resident, eager to bring her global experience into her new journey here.

Upon settling in Saskatoon early this year, challenges arose like adjusting to the climate, finding suitable employment, and building a new network from scratch. Umali says that all through this, “GGP supported me by guiding me through community connections, career resources, and helping me feel more at home in a new environment.”

Umali’s favourite programs at GGP include our Employment Ready: Networking program, Family, Fun, and Fit, CHEF, as well as the volunteer opportunities. Umali volunteered in our Computer Classes, helping her to connect with other newcomers and the community. The most helpful service for Umali was the one-on-one support, “especially the guidance from Yusup, which gave me confidence and direction in pursuing my career,” she notes.

Umali is very excited to begin her new role as a Senior Business Analyst at the Greater Toronto Airports Authority. “The journey to this position involved leveraging my international airline experience, refining my skills through mentorship, and staying resilient in the Canadian job market. I look forward to contributing to impactful projects and learning from a talented team.”

In the future, Umali would like to continue growing as a Business Analyst, expand her expertise in aviation and business operations, and take on leadership opportunities. Umali says, “I also hope to give back by mentoring newcomers, just as I was supported in my own journey.”

Umali advises other newcomers to “stay open-minded, plan your steps carefully, and connect with settlement organizations like GGP that truly support your journey. Get involved in programs, build networks through volunteering and events, and trust that every small step will bring you closer to success in Canada.”

Umali says that “being a newcomer is both exciting and challenging, as it means starting over in a new place while carrying the hopes of building a better future. When I first arrived in Saskatoon, it was difficult to adjust and know where to begin. GGP made that transition so much easier by offering not just programs, but also kindness, encouragement, and a true sense of community. From networking events to mentorship for my job search, each service helped me grow in confidence and feel more at home. I am especially grateful for the dedicated staff and volunteers who go above and beyond to support clients like me. To all the supporters of GGP, thank you for making these opportunities possible and for helping newcomers find their place in Canada.”

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Weaving Words: The Letter from Swift Current

ggpadmin — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 20:32:44 +0000

Weaving Words: The Letter from Swift Current

Weaving Words is a creative writing workshop offered in partnership with the Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild. Over four sessions, clients came together to learn, share, and explore their literary creativity. In the August program, participants used old pictures as prompts, drawing on them to spark ideas and guide their writing. We are honoured to share the story written by Sophia, one of the program participants.

The Letter from Swift Current

One cold night in 1940, Mr. Edward sat alone in his study, the sound of the wind rattling the windows. In his trembling hands was a strange letter he had just found in his mailbox. The paper was brittle, the ink slightly faded, and it carried the faint scent of damp earth.

His secretary, Miss Carter, entered with the evening files. She stopped when she saw his pale face. “Mr. Edward? What happened?”

He held up the letter. “Look—it’s addressed to me. But… the postmark. Swift Current, Saskatchewan. And the date— August 15, 1930.”

“Swift Current?” Miss Carter frowned. “That’s a small town, a few hours by train from Saskatoon. But how can a letter from 1930 arrive in your mailbox tonight?”

Edward carefully opened the envelope. The handwriting was rushed, almost desperate:

“Mr. Edward, we urgently need your new breathing treatment device. Everyone in town has suddenly fallen ill with severe breathing problems. We are locked inside our homes and cannot go out. Please, help us.”

Miss Carter’s eyes widened. “Breathing treatment device? Isn’t that the one you launched in 1930?”

Edward nodded slowly. “Yes. My most advanced invention at the time. But this letter means… they need it now—even though it is ten years in the past.”

For a moment, the room was silent except for the storm outside. Then Edward rose to his feet. “I have to go to Swift Current. Tonight.”

Miss Carter hesitated, then sighed. “Then I’m coming with you. But you’ll have to explain, on the train, how we can help people who might not even be alive anymore.”

The Train Through Time

The station was nearly deserted when they arrived. The last train hissed in the cold night air, its lamps glowing faintly through the snow. They boarded quickly, the whistle blew, and the iron beast carried them westward into darkness.

Inside the dimly lit carriage, Edward unfolded the letter again. Miss Carter leaned closer. “Do you think this is some kind of… time rift?”

Edward’s eyes narrowed. “Machines are bridges, Miss Carter. They connect what once seemed impossible. Electricity, radio, medicine—they bend reality. Perhaps this device of mine bent more than lungs.”

The train rattled through the dark fields, but soon the lamps flickered. The view outside blurred—not farms and snow, but shadows of another world. For a moment, Edward saw children running in the streets of 1930, women coughing at their windows, men shouting for help.

Miss Carter clutched his arm. “Edward! Are we… going backward?”

The train screeched to a halt. The conductor stepped into their carriage—but his uniform was old-fashioned, faded. His voice echoed strangely. “Swift Current,” he announced. “Year… 1930.”

The Town of Silence

They stepped onto the platform. The air was heavy, damp with the smell of illness. The town was silent—no lights, no voices, only the echo of wind through boarded windows.

Edward clutched the breathing device—a polished metal box with tubes and valves. “This place feels like a graveyard,” Miss Carter whispered.

A boy staggered out of the shadows. His face was pale, his breath ragged. His eyes widened at Edward. “You came… you really came!” he gasped, before collapsing.

Edward rushed to fit the device over the boy’s mouth, pumping carefully. The boy’s chest rose, color returned to his cheeks. “It works,” he whispered weakly. “You saved me.” He pointed shakily. “They’re all waiting… in the church.”

Inside the church, dozens of townsfolk lay weak and gasping, their bodies frail, their voices hoarse. Edward worked tirelessly, moving from one to the next, attaching his device. Miss Carter helped, trembling but determined.

But as Edward treated them, something strange happened. The patients’ faces began to blur, like fading ink on old paper.

Miss Carter cried, “Edward—they’re disappearing!”

The boy smiled faintly. “We are shadows… trapped between years. Only your machine can free us.”

Edward froze. “Free you? Or erase you?”

The Door Between Years

The church trembled. Cracks split the walls, and through them Edward glimpsed swirling images of both 1940 and 1930—two times overlapping like reflections in broken glass. The letter in his pocket glowed, burning hot.

Miss Carter clung to him. “The letter brought us here. It’s not just a message—it’s a key.”

The boy’s voice echoed: “If you stay, we remain. If you leave, we vanish. But if you cross the door… you might change everything.”

Edward’s heart pounded. He thought of history, of lives lost, of the power in his hands. Slowly, he placed the breathing device on the church altar. The glow spread, filling the room like sunlight breaking through storm clouds.

The townsfolk stood, smiling peacefully, before dissolving into silver dust that drifted upward into the light. The boy whispered his last words: “Thank you… now we can breathe… forever.”

Then silence.

Edward and Miss Carter opened their eyes. They were back on the train, back in 1940. The letter lay on Edward’s lap— now blank. The machine was gone.

Miss Carter whispered, “Did we really go there?” Edward stared at the empty page, his voice low. “Some doors only open once. But sometimes, saving the past is the only way to breathe in the present.”

The whistle blew. Ahead, the first lights of Swift Current appeared—quiet, alive, untouched.

The post Weaving Words: The Letter from Swift Current appeared first on Global Gathering Place.

Global Gathering Place Scholarship Recipient One Year Later

ggpadmin — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 21:21:56 +0000

Global Gathering Place Scholarship Recipient One Year Later

Daryna arrived in Canada in November of 2023 from Ukraine, together with her five-year-old son. Before the war, she describes her life as peaceful and normal: “I had a job I loved in the printing industry and a big family close to me. But one day, everything changed. My son and I had to leave our home and our country.” Daryna and her son then travelled from Kyiv to Saskatoon over the course of three days, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. “At that time, my older sister and my mother were already in Canada, so it helped us feel less alone. We were also very happy to have the support of a wonderful Canadian family—without them, it would have been almost impossible to get through such big changes in our lives.”

The first challenge that Daryna faced upon arriving in Saskatoon was her son’s struggle to adapt to life in a new country. When they first arrived in Canada, he was very reluctant to engage with others in English, resulting in him not having much contact with others outside of his family.

A few months after arriving in Canada, Daryna and her son participated in BrightStart! at GGP, our program designed for mothers and their preschoolers to create a network of support and develop their language and social skills. Daryna admits that the class was initially daunting, but as the weeks progressed, the instructors, Jasmine and Ally, played a crucial role in helping her and her family adjust to life in Canada.

Daryna recounts the tremendous help that GGP were to her and her family when first coming to Canada. “My settlement worker, Ines, helped me with documents and housing. Tetiana helped me get my first job as a interpreter for Ukrainians at GGP. Iryna always supported me and gave me advice when I had questions. And of course, there was Liudmyla; she was my mother’s settlement worker. When I came to Canada, my mom was sick with cancer. Liudmyla helped us a lot with documents and doctor appointments. Her support was very important to us. As you can see, GGP helped me a lot! And of course—the scholarship! I’m very grateful.”

In 2024, Daryna was one of five recipients of the Global Gathering Place Scholarship. She shares, “when I received the scholarship from GGP, I realized that it wasn’t just an opportunity to study, but also proof that I should keep moving forward and trying. When I applied for the scholarship, I was sure I wouldn’t get it, but then I asked myself, “What will I lose if I try?” Don’t be afraid to try, even if things don’t work out at first. Believe in yourself and keep moving forward!”

The scholarship enabled Daryna to pursue a Graphic Design Course at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, where she enhanced her proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, graphic design, and digital image enhancement. Daryna has been thrilled to use her design skills to create prints for clothing as a hobby and is hopeful she will land a job where she can fully utilize her expertise and continue to grow in this field.

Thanks to the scholarship, Daryna was able to open up doors to new opportunities both in graphic design and in personal growth. “Since last year, I’ve become even more motivated to keep learning and improving. The scholarship not only supported my studies but also gave me the confidence to explore new paths in my career and life.”

Currently, Daryna is working at FurBaby Care Centre as a Pet Advocate. “It’s hard to remember exactly how I got this job—it was a journey of trying and learning from mistakes. Like many newcomers, it was hard for me to find a job at first. I applied to many places and sometimes didn’t hear back. But I didn’t give up. Step by step, I found something that fit me. Now I enjoy my work, and I feel proud that I kept going. The most important thing is not to give up.” Daryna is motivated to continue improving her English, keep learning, travel, and do everything she can to create a happy and safe future for her son.

Daryna’s advice to newcomers is that it’s okay if things don’t work out the first time. “If you fall, get up. If you make a mistake, start again. It’s better to take the harder path than to stay in one place. And even if it feels like you are alone in your struggles, look around—there is always someone nearby. If it’s hard to reach a big goal, break it down into smaller ones. Small victories will help you not to get emotionally exhausted.”

The post Global Gathering Place Scholarship Recipient One Year Later appeared first on Global Gathering Place.

Volunteer Discusses Reciprocity in the Classroom: I’m Learning as Much as I’m Hopefully Giving, if Not More

ggpadmin — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 19:49:36 +0000

Volunteer Discusses Reciprocity in the Classroom: I’m Learning as Much as I’m Hopefully Giving, if Not More

Don Purich began volunteering with GGP in 2020 in our Communication Circle program after his good friend, Lori, one of our English teachers, recommended GGP to him. Before volunteering with GGP, Don worked as a tour guide at the Saskatchewan Aviation Museum, a legal aid lawyer, director of the Native Law Centre, and a book publisher. He is motivated by his love of working with people and more specifically, people from different backgrounds and with different cultural experiences.

Don is now volunteering in Rachel’s CLB 3-4 class. He finds great joy when students approach him with questions about his life experiences in Saskatoon and ask for tips on adapting to Canada. He notes that he feels more connected to what is going on around the globe when he is connected to his students. “It’s one thing to read about situations that are happening in the world and another thing to talk about them to people who are escaping from those things… I remember early on, having a long chat with a fellow from Syria and he was describing what had happened in Aleppo… There were a couple of women from Myanmar, and I didn’t realize the extent of the conflict there. [Their stories] made it come very alive and becomes very personal.” Don notes that hearing these firsthand accounts “puts things in perspective.”

Don enjoys the relationships he has formed while at GGP the most and the laughs that he has shared with his students. He reminisces about a Ukrainian couple that joined GGP for a trip to Batoche and they were very excited to see and experience this site. Don took them across the St. Laurent Ferry and notes how incredible that moment was for this couple and how the couple took everything in.

Don must have spoken highly of his experience at GGP, because in 2023, Don’s wife, Karen Bolstad, joined as a volunteer. Don and Karen both volunteer in Rachel’s class on different days of the week. “Sometimes if Karen is not having a good day, I’ll go on Wednesday and Thursday. If I’m having a bad day, she’ll go on Thursday as well. So, the students get quite a kick out of that.” Now, Don and Karen both talk extensively to their friends about their experience at Global Gathering Place and the incredible experiences and work they do.

“Many of the people I have met, many of them have come [to Canada] because they’re escaping strife and conflict… Students I’ve talked to come from Syria, from Ukraine, from Myanmar, from Eritrea, from Sudan.” Don notes that he thinks of himself as an optimist but notes that he sometimes finds this difficult because of the state of the world. He, however, is inspired by the students’ fiercely positive attitudes. “Sometimes Karen and I joke about one of us having a bad day or feeling sorry for yourself or something. And then you go to class and listen to the optimism these people have; it gives you a real boost.”

We are so grateful for the hours that Don has volunteered in our English Language Classes and the dedication he shows towards helping our clients become proficient in English.

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GGP Client Gives Back by Joining Our Wonderful Group of Volunteers

ggpadmin — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 19:35:11 +0000

GGP Client Gives Back by Joining Our Wonderful Group of Volunteers

Akintunde arrived in Canada in the summer of 2024 with his wife and four children. For Akintunde, arriving in Canada was both exciting and challenging for his family. “As a newcomer, I encountered the typical hurdles of adapting to a new environment, understanding cultural differences, and navigating the job market.” A significant challenge he faced was transferring his experience and professional skills into the expectations of the Canadian workforce. Akintunde was determined to build strong foundations here and this ultimately led him to seek resources and programs that could support this important transition. One of these resources was GGP after a friend recommended us to Akintunde.

Akintunde credits GGP for playing a pivotal role in his and his family’s settlement journey. He highlights the employment readiness programs as particularly impactful, equipping him with job search strategies, résumé writing skills, and interviewing techniques that boosted his confidence and prepared him for the Canadian job market.

GGP’s settlement programs also provided vital support, helping his family adapt to life in Canada through guidance on healthcare, financial literacy, housing, recreation, and community engagement. “GGP offered a holistic framework for settling down,” he says.

After being in Canada for just two months, Akintunde began volunteering with GGP in our computer classes thanks to his proficiency with technology. “Volunteering with GGP was my way of giving back to an organization and community that have given so much to me and my family. It also presented an opportunity to use my skills to support newcomers like myself in their journey.” Akintunde notes the significance of digital literacy and how rewarding he finds being able to teach this skill and to empower others to navigate technology. Volunteering is also a way for Akintunde to deepen his connection with his community and learn from the experiences of others.

One of Akintunde’s favourite moments at GGP was when a client from one of his digital literacy classes reached out to him to let him know that the support and guidance that he provided helped them successfully create their first résumé in Microsoft Word. “Their excitement and gratitude were incredibly fulfilling and reminded me how even small contributions can make a big difference in someone’s life. Experiences like this inspire me to continue volunteering and giving back to the community.”

Akintunde’s advice for fellow newcomers is to take full advantage of the resources offered by settlement organizations like GGP. “Be proactive in seeking support, attending programs, and building a network. Embrace the learning process, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek help; it’s all part of the journey toward successfully settling and thriving in a new environment. Being a newcomer is a journey filled with learning and adaptation, but organizations like GGP make it manageable and rewarding. Their programs not only provide essential skills and resources but also foster a sense of belonging and community.”

Akintunde goes on to say that “supporting GGP means supporting countless families in building new lives and contributing to Canadian society. For my family and me, GGP has been more than a support system; it’s been a bridge to a brighter future.”

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