Volunteer

Volunteer of the Month

Katherine Cullihall

I am a retired nurse – worked the last 20 years as a palliative care research nurse for the Manitoba Palliative Care Research Unit. Since retiring, I have enjoyed volunteering with the Immigrant Centre, Siloam Mission, Manitoba Harvest, and Assiniboine Park Conservancy. I enjoy reading, walking, conversations with friends and family, traveling, church activities and learning. I have also completed the Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language at the University of Winnipeg. 

My daughter was volunteering while in university – and it sounded interesting to me. I volunteered in 2015-2016 and then returned in the summer of 2020. I am so grateful for what newcomers bring to Canada. My parents were immigrants and my mom always said how grateful she was to be a Canadian. Being able to communicate in a meaningful way in English is a critical piece of adapting to life here. I am happy to play a small part in facilitating an English conversation circle and being a friendly Manitoba face. As well, I have been learning Spanish (my daughter is married in Guatemala) and it helps me understand a little bit the challenges of learning a new language in adulthood. 

I like having a variety of volunteer experiences. With APC (when it’s able to be open) I am outside and with visitors and seeing the animals. At Siloam and now at Harvest, I am able to give time. I have been given so much in life in terms of love, opportunity for education and healthcare, and meaningful work. 

I really enjoy interaction with the students and I have found that Zoom does not need to be a deterrent. I like being able to be creative and think outside the box in terms of making the language accessible. I appreciate the autonomy I have, but also the great support from Walter and the AEC team. Milena has been my ‘partner’ this term and she is always so friendly and happy to help. I have appreciated getting to know her a little bit more. Walter is always available to give support and encouragement.