A Warm Welcome: How Community Volunteers Change Lives

By Shazia Shareef

When Jeanmarie arrived in Canada from Burundi as a Government-Aided Refugee (GAR), he carried something powerful with him: hope—hope for a fresh start and a brighter future for his two young daughters.

Starting over in a new country is never easy, especially as a single father with limited English. Jeanmarie faced obstacle after obstacle, from learning unfamiliar systems to meeting his children’s day-to-day needs in a completely new environment. Still, he stayed determined and reached out for support, which led him to our Canada Connects program. There, his family was matched with Delee, a dedicated community volunteer.

Delee had already supported another newcomer family and was eager to share her time, compassion, and creativity. From their first meeting, she helped Jeanmarie and his daughters feel seen, heard, and truly welcome. She guided Jeanmarie through life in Regina—showing him local services, introducing him to neighbourhood events, and helping him navigate transit and schools.

But Delee’s impact went far beyond practical guidance. She became a positive presence in the girls’ lives, creating moments that made them feel valued and at home. They cheered at their first soccer match together, crafted colourful art at home, played in the park, and laughed over board games. Those simple afternoons brought joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging.

Week by week, Jeanmarie grew more at ease. He learned how to navigate buses and community events. His daughters made new friends at school. Bit by bit, this refugee family found a place in our welcoming community.

Jeanmarie’s journey is ongoing, and with continued support from Canada Connects and volunteers like Delee, he and his daughters are building a life filled with promise. We’ll keep listening and learning, because every story matters. When asked about Delee, one of Jeanmarie’s daughters smiled and said,

“I like spending time with her. I want her to stay longer.”

A powerful reminder of the difference just one volunteer can make.