Get to know our volunteer of the month, Parisa!

What do I do in my role as a volunteer?

I have volunteered in different areas of the MPNH. Since the summer, I have helped Fatima and Omnia set up tables and take them down after classes. I also assisted Susie in the kitchen and supported Lamin during some events.

Since autumn, I have been volunteering at the front desk with Sandra as an office assistant. I also work with Lam to assist him with the rentals and Family Resource Programs.

When did you begin volunteering at MPNH?

I started volunteering at MPNH in June 2025 with great enthusiasm and interest.

Why do you volunteer?

I enjoy being around and working with people. When I help others, it gives me a really good feeling. I feel happy when I can do something meaningful for someone and make a positive difference.

Volunteering also allows me to learn new skills, gain experience, and connect with people from different backgrounds. It gives me a sense of purpose and helps me feel more involved in the community.

Can you share a story or instance where you felt you made an impact?

One meaningful experience for me was at the front desk, where I had the opportunity to assist Persian-speaking seniors who came in with questions. Many of them felt more comfortable communicating in their own language, so I was able to explain the different programs, schedules, and activities available at Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House in Persian.

I helped them understand how to join classes, guided them through the registration process, and assisted with filling out forms for events. Seeing their relief and happiness when they realized they could fully understand and participate was very rewarding.

It made me feel that I was truly making a positive impact by helping them feel more confident, included, and connected to the community.

Your favorite memory at MPNH?

I have many wonderful memories at Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House, but my favorite one is my very first day there. It was a beautiful spring day in May when I first walked into the Neighbourhood House. I was warmly welcomed by the staff, and their kindness immediately made me feel comfortable and valued.

When I asked about the programs, Sandra kindly showed me to the notice board and took the time to explain the different classes and activities. She also gave me a clear and detailed introduction to volunteering, including how to get involved and suggested flexible days that worked with my schedule. That support meant a lot to me and made it easy to take my first step as a volunteer.

I would like to sincerely thank all the staff for their patience, kindness, and continuous support. I am especially grateful to Lam for the time and care he put into training me, guiding me in my role as an office assistant, and teaching me how to use different programs. His support has also helped me feel more confident in my job search and interviews.

Overall, what makes this place special for me is the friendly and supportive environment created by both the staff and the management. It truly feels like a welcoming community.

Feedback from staff/participants:

It has been a pleasure having Parisa as part of the community, and the team is truly grateful for the dedication, positivity, and effort she brings as a volunteer. Since she began volunteering with us last summer, Parisa has demonstrated remarkable growth, she is now much more confident and generally seems comfortable helping the people who come into the house. We deeply appreciate her support, consistency in showing up every Saturday, and her hard work, all of which have made a meaningful difference. Her kindness and willingness to help others do not go unnoticed and are truly valued by everyone around her.