Tag: Volunteering

Empowering seniors through digital literacy

Suman and his wife, Nenita, immigrated to Canada from India decades ago. They built a life together filled with love, laughter, and resilience. But as technology continued to advance at a rapid pace, they found themselves feeling somewhat overwhelmed and left behind.

Determined to embrace the digital age, Suman and Nenita decided to enroll in the Collingwood Tech Support Program. From the moment they walked through the doors, they were met with warmth and kindness from the volunteers and the UBC student who dedicated their time to helping seniors like them.

With each one-on-one session, Suman and Nenita eagerly soaked up new knowledge like sponges. Whether it was learning how to navigate Facebook to stay connected with family and friends back in India, or mastering the intricacies of typing in Hindi on their keyboard, the volunteers tailored each lesson to their specific needs and pace.

But what truly stood out to Suman and Nenita was the patience and understanding shown by their mentors. Despite their initial struggles and hesitations, the volunteers never once made them feel inadequate or out of place. Instead, they encouraged them to ask questions, experiment with new skills, and celebrate their progress along the way.

Over the course of just a few months, Suman and Nenita’s confidence in using technology soared to new heights. They marvelled at their ability to adjust text sizes on their phones for easier reading and edit photos with just a few taps of their fingertips. Each session left them feeling empowered and excited for the next opportunity to learn and grow.

With newfound skills and confidence, Suman and Anita eagerly looked forward to embracing all that the digital world had to offer. And as they continued on their journey of lifelong learning, they knew that they would always have a dedicated community of mentors cheering them on every step of the way.

One-on-one tech support is available for seniors and older adults who need help with their devices, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, or desktop computers. Learn more at cnh.bc.ca/seniors or call 604-435-0323.

November 28, 2024
Long-time volunteer aims to be a friendly face at CNH

When faced with free time after retiring in 2003, Eliza Ngan started visiting Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) to pass the time.

“I live very close by… I [came to CNH] to do all kinds of exercise in the mornings, I also joined tai chi and yoga,” says Eliza. “I started coming here to socialize with a whole bunch of other seniors since they’re always close by.”

“I know everybody here, every one of them because I’ve been exercising here every morning for so long. The [faces of the] people may change but they’re so friendly.”

Eliza Ngan volunteers weekly at Coffee Social, a popular program at CNH that brings seniors and older adults together through coffee and conversation.

In addition to exercising, Eliza started volunteering for CNH two years later–and has been helping out ever since. She started helping in the kitchen on and off in 2005, then began facilitating the weekly coffee social program for seniors and older adults in 2017. Eliza says these activities helped shape her routine and socialization, especially since she lives alone.

“I’m by myself so I didn’t want to be alone. I like people, I like to socialize,” she says. “I like to keep myself busy. I still do my housework, change my sheets, do my laundry, everything.”

While Eliza says she appreciated the regimen volunteering at CNH gave her, she had to take a break in 2022 when she was recovering from health issues and dealing with subsequent issues. Despite this, she was back to helping at CNH as soon as she was cleared to do so.

“Really, I just wanted to do something and get out of my house,” she explains. “Whatever people ask, whatever I can do, I do.”

“I don’t mind the time, [even though I’m now] getting tired easier. I’ll keep coming and coming so long as I can [do it].”

Eliza encourages people interested in volunteering, especially younger folks, to help whenever possible.

“Just tell them what to do and be friendly. I’ll do what I can and help them, and make them feel good to be here,” says Eliza.

This story was originally written for our 2024 Annual Report, which highlights the experiences of program participants, volunteers and community members at CNH. Learn more about volunteer opportunities at CNH at cnh.bc.ca/volunteer.

September 25, 2024
Celebrating National Volunteer Week 2024: “Every Moment Matters”

April 14-20, 2024 is National Volunteer Week! This year’s theme, “Every Moment Matters,” highlights the importance of volunteers and each contribution they make at a moment when we need support more than ever. Volunteers make a lasting impact in our community’s inclusivity, strength and wellbeing as they continue to generously share their time, talent, and energy.

We share some stories from our staff that celebrate these volunteers’ collective impact through their kindness, generosity, and commitment.

Morning Star Program

“Our Morning Star volunteer team is extremely dedicated and CNH is very lucky to have such wonderful volunteers. The team comes in every Saturday morning at 6 am to serve a hot breakfast to an unhoused and/or low-income community. The team is friendly and very welcoming to all of our participants and makes sure they all feel comfortable. This volunteer team is very special and we appreciate all that they do for our Morning Star program!” –Sue Woodland, Morning Star Program Manager

Seniors Programs

“Arleen Cruz is capable, ready and willing to do whatever is needed. She began volunteering at CNH when she was in middle school but joined the Seniors’ team last year. Whether she is volunteering with the walking club, teaching the ukulele, leading a singalong or showing movies, her love for seniors shows.” –Susanna Chu, Housekeeping and Wellness Program Manager

RISE Community Health Centre

“Local resident and volunteer Patricio Ibarra is one of the founding members of the RISE Community Health Centre (CHC) Advisory, which was formed in 2019. His accomplishments with the committee include helping to select the name RISE, helping to hire our first staff member Sonja Rietkerk, helping with the RISE CHC grand opening and helping to approve the proposal for the RISE CHC Pharmacy. Patricio brings a wealth of knowledge to the committee from his lived experience as an immigrant from Chile, active member of the Renfew-Collingwood neighbourhood and as former president of the CNH Board of Directors. In fact, Patricio has been volunteering at CNH for the last 20 years! Patricio is stepping down from the RISE CHC Advisory Committee this year, and we want to thank him for his longstanding commitment to CNH. Thank you, Patricio!” –Sandra Bodenhamer, Director, RISE Community Health Centre

Food Hub Programs

“Miguel has been an incredibly dedicated volunteer for our Food Hub food drop program for almost two years. What makes his commitment even more remarkable is that his mother, Esperanza, and his son, Anthony, are also actively involved in supporting the program. Miguel’s positive energy and warm demeanour have significantly contributed to the program’s success, creating an environment where participants feel valued and supported. He goes above and beyond to assist those in need and serves as a crucial link between participants and our staff. Miguel consistently shares valuable feedback and insights with our team, helping us continuously improve the program. His contributions are invaluable, and we are fortunate to have him as part of our volunteer team.” –Ross Oh, Food Hub Manager

These are just a few examples of CNH volunteers in our community. To learn about volunteering at CNH, visit cnh.bc.ca/volunteer.

April 14, 2024
‘It’s been a big part of my life’ says longtime volunteer on CNH

For 13 years, Barry Londry, 67, has found himself inside the kitchen at Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) every Tuesday. A volunteer chef for Community Lunch, Barry says he never expected to stay beyond a couple of weeks but now he’s a permanent fixture of the popular low-cost lunch program. “From day one, I’ve been doing the soups and I’ve gotten known for that, good or bad,” he says with a laugh. “Some people have nice compliments but I don’t think I live up to that.”

With a professional background as a chef and volunteer work with the rooftop garden at CNH, it was a perfect fit when Barry was first asked about participating in the lunch program. However, it’s his passion for food, culture and people that has encouraged him to stay. From congee to borscht and squash soup, Barry says he’s cooked a diversity of dishes at CNH thanks to the monthly menu prepared by the program’s head chef. “I enjoy doing it and it’s easy for me and fun,” he says.

Over the years, Barry has cooked for other events at CNH and in the broader Renfrew-Collingwood neighbourhood. He has also helped lead other kitchen programs at CNH and was instrumental in starting the Cheyenne Community Garden and the Norquay Food Forest. Barry continues to volunteer regularly at the gardens and participates in the seniors’ karaoke program every month. He also receives cleaning services through Better at Home. However, Barry is no “regular volunteer,” according to staff at CNH. Barry often shares his knowledge and skills within the neighbourhood, working collaboratively “to make the best conclusions,” says Emily Rees, Director of Community Development. “Without him, our programs won’t succeed.”

In fact, Barry’s wealth of knowledge, skills and interest in collaboration has allowed him opportunities that go beyond simply meeting new people at CNH. Through his time at the neighbourhood house, he’s also gained opportunities and experiences beyond his dreams. Most surprising, he says, was being invited to help prepare a feast for C.R.E.W., the Indigenous Youth Program’s annual canoe excursion for Indigenous youth. “We helped clean hundreds of crabs and got involved with a really nice, full dinner with smoked salmon, traditional salmon and chowder,” he says. “I wouldn’t have experienced that otherwise.”

In 2012, Barry recalls a cross-cultural meal he helped prepare for a group of city planners visiting CNH. Another year, he participated in and graduated from a course offered by the Community Development Department for community development and community capacity building at Capilano University. “I completed the course and we had a graduation party,” he says. “It was really great learning about the field by a really diverse group of people who were either working and/or volunteering in the industry.” Later, he was asked about his “dream kitchen” when CNH was building the Annex. Barry worked with the kitchen designer to help design and outfit the Annex kitchen with appliances and major equipment. “When I saw the Annex kitchen completed I felt proud for being a part of it,” he says.

When asked how CNH has shaped his life, it’s difficult for Barry to hold back tears. “It’s been a big part of my life,” he says. “I consider it my home, I really do.” He adds that it was difficult being away from CNH during closures in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic but he is relieved being able to be on-site and back to the kitchen. “It was a tough time but it’s just a big part of my life,” Barry says.” A very positive part.”

This story was originally written for our 2023 Annual Report, which highlights the experiences of program participants, volunteers and community members at CNH. To learn more about volunteering with at CNH, visit cnh.bc.ca/volunteer.

September 27, 2023
Celebrating a CNH volunteer’s drive to create and share art to the community

April 16-22 is National Volunteer Week! We recently celebrated CNH’s volunteers at our Volunteer Appreciation Event at CNH to thank and honour them for their continued generosity in contributing to and building an interconnected community.

This year’s theme is “Volunteering Weaves us Together,” and this couldn’t ring more true to the hundreds of folks who poured in hours to volunteer for our programs and services. Our continued growth and expansion is thanks in huge part to our volunteers, who continue to generously share their time, talent, and energy to support one another and in turn, the community.

This week, we are sharing some stories from our staff—and the volunteers themselves—that celebrate these volunteers’ collective impact through their kindness, generosity, and commitment.

From Sandra Bodenhamer, Director of RISE Community Health Centre:
Tess I has been a dedicated and passionate volunteer on the Advisory Committee since the very beginnings of RISE Community Health Centre. Last year, she created an opportunity for local artists to paint murals throughout RISE. As an artist herself, she donated a beautiful art piece called ROOTS which creates a soothing environment for clients.

May 2, 2023
From program participant to volunteer: celebrating Alan Widdows’ passion for volunteering

April 16-22 is National Volunteer Week! We recently celebrated CNH’s volunteers at our Volunteer Appreciation Event at CNH to thank and honour them for their continued generosity in contributing to and building an interconnected community.

This year’s theme is “Volunteer Weaves us Together,” and this couldn’t ring more true to the hundreds of folks who poured in hours to volunteer for our programs and services. Our continued growth and expansion is thanks in huge part to our volunteers, who continue to generously share their time, talent, and energy to support one another and in turn, the community.

This week, we are sharing some stories from our staff—and the volunteers themselves—that celebrate these volunteers’ collective impact through their kindness, generosity, and commitment.

From Eda Ertan, Seniors Health/Literacy Manager:
Alan Widdows started engaging with CNH as a Social Prescribing Program participant. Currently, he is bringing his love for reading by volunteering for the Literacy Outreach Program’s EAL Book Club. His deep knowledge and previous experience working with Indigenous communities and his purpose to contribute to meaningful causes made him a strong asset to CNH. In addition to his role at CNH, he volunteers his time on the Patient Advisors Network for the Canadian Institute for Social Prescribing to enhance the health and well-being of older adults in Canada.

May 2, 2023
Supporting the improvement of health services through volunteering

April 16-22 is National Volunteer Week! We recently celebrated CNH’s volunteers at our Volunteer Appreciation Event at CNH to thank and honour them for their continued generosity in contributing to and building an interconnected community.

This year’s theme is “Volunteering Weaves us Together,” and this couldn’t ring more true to the hundreds of folks who poured in hours to volunteer for our programs and services. Our continued growth and expansion is thanks in huge part to our volunteers, who continue to generously share their time, talent, and energy to support one another and in turn, the community.

This week, we are sharing some stories from our staff—and the volunteers themselves—that celebrate these volunteers’ collective impact through their kindness, generosity, and commitment.

From Sandra Bodenhamer, Director of RISE Community Health Centre:
“The RISE Community Health Centre Advisory Committee is a devoted team of volunteers that meet monthly. They report on community trends, and provide advice on how to improve health services. This summer, they helped run the RISE CHC grand opening event. They helped by providing Naloxone training, giving tours in different languages and sharing information about CNH.”

May 2, 2023
Youth finds community in volunteering

April 16-22 is National Volunteer Week! We recently celebrated CNH’s volunteers at our Volunteer Appreciation Event at CNH to thank and honour them for their continued generosity in contributing to and building an interconnected community.

This year’s theme is “Volunteering Weaves us Together,” and this couldn’t ring more true to the hundreds of folks who poured in hours to volunteer for our programs and services. Our continued growth and expansion is thanks in huge part to our volunteers, who continue to generously share their time, talent, and energy to support one another and in turn, the community.

This week, we are sharing some stories from our staff—and the volunteers themselves—that celebrate these volunteers’ collective impact through their kindness, generosity, and commitment.

From Maxx, a volunteer for the Youth Services Peer 2 Peer’s All Genders Program:
“I was looking for a place that would be filled with queer people. I found CNH and I’ve been going to All Genders for over a year now. We’re like a little family, always there for each other.”

May 2, 2023
A ‘behind-the-scenes all-star’: Celebrating Charis Chu, CNH Volunterer

April 16-22 is National Volunteer Week! We recently celebrated CNH’s volunteers at our Volunteer Appreciation Event at CNH to thank and honour them for their continued generosity in contributing to and building an interconnected community.

This year’s theme is “Volunteer Weaves us Together,” and this couldn’t ring more true to the hundreds of folks who poured in hours to volunteer for our programs and services. Our continued growth and expansion is thanks in huge part to our volunteers, who continue to generously share their time, talent, and energy to support one another and in turn, the community.

This week, we are sharing some stories from our staff—and the volunteers themselves—that celebrate these volunteers’ collective impact through their kindness, generosity, and commitment.

From Dovana Singh, Better At Home Manager:

“Charis Chu is a Better At Home volunteer admin assistant extraordinaire. She has been volunteering with the Seniors’ Team for over 2 years now and is a behind-the-scenes all-star. She processes payments, tracks interactions, does all kinds of miscellaneous tasks, and is always timely. Thank you for all you do Charis!”

May 2, 2023
Sharing a part of one’s self through volunteering

Volunteer Ludin Godinez struggled when she first arrived in Canada in January 2020: in addition to the COVID-19 shutdown in March, she had difficulty navigating a new country, a new language, and a new community.

But that all changed when she started volunteering for the community; first with the Food Bank, and then with Collingwood Neighbourhood House, where she fondly looks back on helping cook the holiday dinner at Family Place.

“I really enjoyed it. The chefs really knew what they were doing,” she said.

This later turned into her volunteering for the monthly Community Kitchen, where she once facilitated a session on Costa Rican food and made dishes for 17 people. Aside from the cooking, she loved the opportunity to talk about her home country.

“I really enjoyed sharing that part of me, and [having] the opportunity to cook my [cuisine]. It’s not just about you, but your culture,” she said. As of this writing, Ludin will be hosting another Community Kitchen session in late September.

Beyond being a wife and a mother, Ludin is also a student: she is currently enrolled in LINC to develop her English-language skills and is taking classes to become an Early Childhood Education Assistant, with the dream of opening her own home daycare someday. Ludin credits CNH staff member Hannah Balba in supporting her with her goals.

“She helped me with my cover letter, my resume, my driving test, and even printing stuff… the little things, even though they’re not her responsibility. I don’t see Hannah as an employee; I see her more as a friend,” Ludin said.

Ludin appreciates the opportunity to volunteer and be part of the community; she encourages others to get involved as well.

“Just do it. You can give back to the community and be part of that; you also receive more than you think you give. If you’re thinking you want to be a volunteer and you want to help—no, they help you.”

For more information about volunteering with CNH, please visit cnh.bc.ca/volunteer.

September 22, 2022