Community

Volunteering has connected me with many different opportunities in Canada. One of the best experiences in my life is being able to volunteer at a free retreat program organized by a non-for-profit organization. They own a few cottages in a scenic spot where refugee families can relax, explore nature, and build communities. The cottages are available for the participants in spring and early fall. During winter it is too cold and not accessible, since the place has a country road nearby.

Before the first opening, I went to prepare the cabins for the families’ visit. I drove four hours towards Toronto Northeast. With a team of volunteers, we were cleaning, painting, cutting, moving wood closer to the fireplace, moving the canoes to the riverbank, and bringing and organizing basic things to make the participants feel at home. Besides that, we were able to stay there for three days. During those days we cooked together, canoed, swam and took a taste of Ontario’s wilderness.

After that, I've led refugee families and groups with my husband, who is also a volunteer. This has become a beautiful way to share with people from different cultures, a way to bring joy to their families, a way to build relationships and memories that will last a long while. It's been more than six times now between the opening and closing seasons. I could say that every time it has nourished my soul in many different ways. I'm so grateful for having this experience.