Don Warkentin’s journey with GGP began when he was an ESL student at the University of Saskatchewan where they are required to attend a class for English language learners. Don’s passion for teaching English to newcomers was cemented during this time when he sat in on a LINC 5 class with our English teacher, Cathy in 2016.

Don promptly returned to GGP in 2017 to volunteer in one of our CLB 3 classes. He first volunteered in Fred’s English class and after the opportunity to work with a variety of our incredible English teachers, Don is excited to be back in Fred’s online class this year.

Don notes his favourite moments of volunteering come when he is able to engage with “students one-on-one to learn more about their history, experiences, and what motivates them to learn English.” Don says that his students have always been and continue to be his source of motivation.

He loves the infectious atmosphere at GGP and values the deep sense of community GGP fosters. Don enjoys the flexibility that he is allowed at GGP and the continual learning that he experiences while teaching. He deeply appreciates how many cultures he can engage with without leaving Saskatoon.

Don consistently reflects that he learns far more from his students than they learn from him. “I learn about how resilient people are in the face of adversity and the sacrifices they make for their family’s future,” Don says.

Thank you so much to Don and the dedication and enthusiasm that he shows to our English language classes. We are honoured to have volunteers like Don who eagerly engage with our clients and put countless hours into helping them grow their English skills.