Helen Nguyen - 50 Stories for 50 Years (Story # 21)
Before Helen talks about Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House programs or events, she talks about help: someone sitting beside her and taking her through each complicated piece of paper, phone calls made to the right office, and appointments that don’t end until there’s understanding, a plan and a list of actionable items.
“Every time I meet Lynda it has taken two hours, more than two hours, because there is a lot of paperwork.”
Helen’s whole face lights up when she talks about her settlement worker Lynda Truong.
“She is very, very kind. She helps me with everything.”
Everything includes three boys, one navigating autism as he graduates, her family’s immigration status, a divorce, and a desire to give back.
“Any event that I have, she will volunteer,” Lynda explains.
Helen’s son has also applied to volunteer with the house.
According to Helen there is always something to figure out, manage and experience. And for all of it, she has Lynda and the neighbourhood house beside her.
“I am happy, so happy.”
More than the workshops on health and nutrition, the events she volunteers for, or the clerical help, it’s the relief Helen feels to know there are people who speak her language, understand her culture and accept her.
Helen hopes that 50 years from now, there’s still welcome and help for the next newcomer.
Story written by Signy Marcyniuk through an interview with the participant during her practicum placement at Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House.
50 Stories for 50 Years at MPNH is a collection of meaningful stories that celebrate the lasting impact our Neighbourhood House has had over the years. These stories come from long-time participants, families, youth, volunteers, community members, and regular visitors whose lives have been touched, supported, or transformed through our programs, services, and connections at the House.
