What inspired you to volunteer with us at Together Project?
I’m inspired to volunteer with Together Project because of its powerful focus on building meaningful connections between newcomers and established residents in Canada.
Did you know your Welcome Group members beforehand? What special skills did they bring to the group?
I didn’t know my Welcome Group members beforehand, which was actually one of the most meaningful parts of the experience. We came together as strangers with a shared goal of supporting newcomers.
What were some of the challenges that your matched household faced?
Language barriers were a major hurdle. Everyday tasks—booking appointments, understanding official documents, or communicating with landlords and employers—required extra time, patience, and support.
Right now, it’s Black History Month, and more Black newcomers are coming to Canada needing social support. What message would you like to share to encourage your community to reach out?
During Black History Month, I think it’s important to remember that welcoming newcomers—especially Black newcomers—means more than just offering practical help. It means actively creating spaces of belonging, dignity, and respect.
Many Black newcomers arrive with incredible resilience, talent, and cultural richness, but they may also face unique barriers, including systemic racism, employment discrimination, and social isolation. Community support can make a powerful difference in helping them feel seen, valued, and included from the very beginning.
What were your highlights of being a volunteer in the Welcome Group Program?
Building genuine relationships—not just between volunteers and the household, but among our Welcome Group members as well. What started as a structured commitment quickly turned into meaningful connections grounded in trust, laughter, and shared experiences.
What advice would you give to potential volunteers?
My biggest piece of advice is: come in with an open mind and realistic expectations. Supporting a newcomer household is incredibly meaningful, but progress can be gradual. Patience, flexibility, and consistency matter more than having all the answers.
