Theresa volunteers with the Immigrant Settlement & Integration Program in Richmond and shares her story:
After a challenging time in my life, I was sad and I lost my confidence. I didn’t want to talk with people. So, a friend of mine who works here as a volunteer asked me to volunteer with S.U.C.C.E.S.S. I am really thankful for her because she’s very kind.
After that, I rebuilt my confidence. Now I can go out and talk to people, especially face to face. Before, I really didn’t want to talk to people, and now I like to talk with people. Even after I got a part-time job, I still take some time during the week to volunteer to help at S.U.C.C.E.S.S. After my retirement, I started volunteering at the S.U.C.C.E.S.S. helpline for emotional support for Chinese speaking callers. S.U.C.C.E.S.S. supported me and now I want to help support others.
Most people tell me, “Oh you must love helping other people!” and I do, but I’m also helping myself because now I have more confidence.
Thank you Theresa for your courage, dedication and inspiration!
Theresa has been nominated for the Constellation Award for Richmond by Francis Li, Richmond ISIP Regional Manager (pictured).