Mónica, why did you decide to volunteer for the Welcome Group Program?
Having volunteered with other organizations in similar roles, I was looking for a trusted organization where I could make a meaningful contribution to the immigrant community.
I was drawn to the Welcome Group Program’s well-structured approach and the real impact they have had in supporting newcomers through their transition and settlement journey in Canada.
Additionally, the team-based volunteer model really appealed to me, as it fosters collaboration and ensures that the support provided to newcomers is both comprehensive and meaningful.
How does your personal background shape your approach to assisting newcomers?
I was a newcomer to Canada once, I know firsthand how challenging starting a life in a new country can be. I learned that having the right guidance early on can make a difference in how smoothly things fall into place.
My nearly 20-year experience working in the corporate world has also given me the chance to mentor others, which has helped me become an active listener, build empathy, and support people in working toward their goals.
On top of that, being a mom has given me a real appreciation for helping others through stressful situations.
All of these experiences have given me the tools and the patience to help newcomers ease into their new life in a new country and feel a little more at home.
What have you learned about the challenges newcomers face when rebuilding their lives in Canada, and how can volunteers best adapt their support when these challenges make it difficult to connect?
One of the important lessons I’ve learned is that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to helping newcomers. Every person and family arrives with a different and often complex reality, so before jumping in to help, it’s important to take the time to understand their situation, their priorities, and their aspirations.
There are times when connecting with a match can feel frustrating and challenging. What I’d suggest is to come to this role with an open mind, lots of empathy, and a non-judgmental mentality. The foundation of any meaningful support is building a genuine rapport with the newcomer — creating a relationship of trust where they feel comfortable relying on your help and guidance.
What does ‘proactive support’ look like when a newcomer is overwhelmed or less available?
It’s very common for newcomers to feel overwhelmed by the adjustment process. To me, proactive support means letting them move at their own pace — checking in regularly and offering help without bombarding them with too much information at once.
What has worked best for me when connecting with matches that are less available is sharing small, useful nuggets of information and sharing with them personal experiences to build communication bridges. At the end of the day, patience and understanding go a long way.
How can volunteers remain proactive and supportive while giving newcomers the space they need to navigate their transition?
One thing I’ve found helpful is incorporating a bit of humor into communication with your match — it lightens the mood and makes the connection feel warmer and more natural.
Once a foundation of trust and understanding is established, I’ve found that offering concrete but small pieces of guidance works best, helping newcomers navigate their adjustment step by step rather than overwhelming them.
Helping them connect with people from similar backgrounds is also key, as building a sense of community around them can make a world of difference in how they settle in.
What were the highlights of volunteering in the program?
One of the most rewarding parts of the experience has been watching newcomers grow more confident as they navigate the early steps of their adjustment journey — and witnessing the incredible resilience they show when facing difficult situations.
Another highlight was the opportunity to meet and work alongside other volunteers. People from all walks of life who come together with a genuine interest in helping others. Their passion, dedication, and care have been both humbling and inspiring.
What advice would you give to others thinking about volunteering for the Welcome Group Program?
I would wholeheartedly encourage anyone thinking about it to join this well-run program. The team at Together Project are passionate people who work tirelessly to support the Welcome Group Program in creating the best possible experience for newcomers. And when newcomers thrive, our entire community benefits.
Come with an open mind — you will learn a lot and meet incredible people along the way. In a world where bad news and polarization seem to dominate, it’s truly refreshing to be surrounded by good-hearted people who are working together to build a stronger, more welcoming community.