For Ario Safaeian, volunteering with Global Gathering Place wasn’t a coincidence: “It was a callback from all the experiences I had as a newcomer in Canada,” he says. Ario and his family moved to Canada in 2019 and have called it home ever since. During that first summer in Saskatoon, he spent most of his time in GGP programs, like Computer Class, Coffee and Conversation, and Breaking Ground, and found his very first friends in Canada. “The volunteers at GGP made my experience unforgettable. Once I finished the program, I realized now it is my turn to give back.”

Ario vividly remembers his first time that he had the opportunity to volunteer with GGP. It was during the summer of 2019 when GGP gathered clients together at the Saskatoon Food Bank and Learning Centre Garden Patch, where they helped pull carrots and water the plants. A few years later, in 2023, Ario began volunteering in our CLB 2-3 class with Rachel.

What has kept Ario returning all these years later is because of the influence that GGP has had on him. “Reflecting on my time as a newcomer with GGP, I’m struck by the profound impact they had on me. I’d like to give back and provide similar experiences to others during my own volunteering.”

For Ario, volunteering is about more than sharing experiences. It allows him to connect with people from all around the world and learn different perspectives and values. “I can’t remember a day where I didn’t learn something new after a volunteering experience,” he says.

One story stands out from his time as a volunteer. Last summer, Ario stayed after his shift to answer any questions students might have or to offer extra help. “One of the students, Mr. M, disclosed his personal experience with me and asked if I had any information in that regard. After sharing my perspective and helping him, I saw him 3 weeks later. I saw him with a big smile on his face walking toward me. He extended his hand and shook mine. ‘Thank you for your help, I made the right decision,’ he said. Knowing that I had a positive impact on someone’s life is very fulfilling.”

“Everyone has their own circle of friends and family, and ultimately, these experiences shape our thoughts,” Ario says. “Volunteering with GGP and connecting with people from all over the world has given me invaluable perspectives. Seeing things from others’ eyes, considering their viewpoints, and putting myself in their shoes has not only broadened my perspective but allowed me to be a better human being in many aspects of my life.”

This fall, Ario began his first year as a medical student at the University of Saskatchewan. We are so proud of him and deeply grateful for the time, care, and kindness he has shared in our classrooms over the years. Thank you, Ario. We can’t wait to see the difference you’ll make, and we hope you’ll always consider GGP a home away from home.