Joe Anne Lira has been an Immigrant Centre volunteer for almost one year. Since joining the Centre in July 2019, Joe Anne has been a committed volunteer who has contributed over 50 hours of volunteer time as a One-on-One English tutor, helping newcomers develop their English language skills.
How did you hear about the immigrant Centre?
While I was browsing websites searching for on-line computer courses, I stumbled upon the Immigrant Centre site, which offered the computer courses that I wanted. Hence, I rearranged my work schedule and paid a visit to the Immigrant Centre (IC). Upon arrival at the IC I was greeted by one of the many assessors who set-up an introductory interview, which included a review of my resume. The assessor was very interested in the fact that I owned an on-line English tutorial and that I have been tutoring English, both on-line and face to face, for more than twenty years. Once I realized that the IC needed volunteers in the English tutoring, well it was akin to a match made in heaven.
Why did you decide to volunteer at the Immigrant Centre?
As mentioned above, a good portion of my work experience, skills and abilities reside in the English tutorial field, so volunteering with the Immigrant Center (IC) in this area just fit like a glove. Prior to obtaining my Permanent Residence, I received quite a bit of support from several government run immigration services. Volunteering is an opportunity for me to help my fellow immigrants hone their English skills, support my community and assist the IC in achieving their goals.
What has your volunteer experience been like at the Immigrant Centre?
I was surprised that a new immigrant, such as myself, could actually volunteer in the English tutoring program. I was very excited about the opportunity to demonstrate my abilities in English tutoring, provide aid to other new immigrants and give back to my new community. The training given by the IC was two-fold: (1) teaching techniques and (2) the English tutorial process. It was quite enjoyable to learn and investigate this process. In my eyes the program is well set-up, organized, respects time, and both the volunteers and students have a very supportive volunteer manager at the IC. Due to the above comments I thoroughly enjoy volunteering at the IC.
Did you learn anything about the Immigrant Centre that you didn’t know before volunteering?
When first visiting the Immigrant Centre (IC) I did not realize that they offered programs other than computer and English tutoring. As my volunteering went on, I was pleased to discover the incredible amount of activities that they offer. Settlement services, employment services, language bank, classes, presentations, and workshops are just the tip of the iceberg. It is remarkable that the IC takes care of new immigrants so well. I am a very proud soon-to-be-Canadian.