Welcome and thank you for visiting the YMCA Connections Webpage!
Are you looking for a flexible, interesting volunteer experience that allows you to choose your own schedule? Would you like to develop valuable intercultural skills and learn more about the many different cultures in the Lower Mainland? Do you have a few hours a month to dedicate to volunteering?
We may have the volunteer opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
The YMCA Connections Program is looking for people who are interested in working with new immigrants on a one-to-one basis.
Our program helps new immigrants adjust to life in Canada by matching them with local volunteers, called “Intercultural Hosts.” Through one-to one matches, newcomers learn more about Canadian life and culture and practice English conversation. The hosts have the opportunity to learn about other cultures and develop strong intercultural communication skills.
The relationship between host and newcomer is similar to friendship. There is no homestay component to the program; instead, matches meet at times that are mutually convenient and participate in social activities together. Valuable learning takes place while matches go for coffee, sightsee, or learn about services available in the community. The YMCA offers optional monthly social activities for all participants, including a Conversation Club, various workshops, and special events.
Who can be a volunteer host?
Hosts are local people who were born here or who have lived here three years or more, and are able to speak English fluently. They are people who have an enthusiasm for learning about other cultures and want to help new immigrants adjust to life here. Hosts understand Canadian culture and enjoy sharing their community with others.
What are the benefits to being a volunteer host?
There are many personal and professional benefits to becoming a host, including:
- Developing intercultural communication skills
- Learning about other cultures
- Learning more about your own community
- Gaining a better understanding of issues related to immigration
- Learning a new language
- Building your resume
- Making new friends!
Who qualifies as a newcomer/new immigrant for the YMCA Connections program?
A newcomer is anyone who comes to Canada under the refugee or immigrant classification. The program accepts individuals, couples or families. Priority is given to newcomers who have been in Canada one year or less, but exceptions are made based on the needs of the new immigrant.
What benefits does YMCA Connections offer newcomers?
Through the informal relationship built with a volunteer host, newcomers can gain many benefits to help them adjust and thrive in Canada including:
- Learning about Canadian culture
- Discovering local communities
- Building English language skills
- Learning about workplace culture and professional possibilities
- Finding and using local services and resources
- Sharing the story of their culture and where they are from
- Making new friends!
How do I apply to be a Host?
You can download the application form in PDF format here, or email us for a word version. We will then invite you to an orientation session where you can find out more about the program, meet other people who are also interested in hosting, and ask any questions.
What other programs does YMCA Connections offer?
YMCA Connections offers intercultural training for organizations, businesses and other groups. We also have an Intercultural Leadership Camp for youth, entitled the Collectively Canadian Camp.
Are you interested in being a host in the YMCA Connections Program? Sign up now for one of our fall orientation sessions!
September 11th, 5:30 PM
October 2nd, 5:30 PM
November 6th, 5:30 PM
December 4th, 5:30 PM
To register please contact esl at vanymca.org
Are you a newcomer to Canada? Would you like to participate in the YMCA Connection program? Sign up now for one of our fall orientation sessions!
September 18th, 5:30 PM
October 16th, 5:30 PM
November 20th, 5:30 PM
December 18th 5:30 PM
For an application form or more information, please contact:
YMCA Community Services
201 - 1166 Alberni Street
Vancouver, BC V6E 3Z3
Tel: 604-685-8066
Fax: 604-684-3255
E-Mail: connections at vanymca.org
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