This is a program for women with English as a second language. It is a fun and creative way to learn conversation, grammar and vocabulary; Canadian culture; make friends and to learn what’s happening in Richmond. Membership is required.
Please contact the RWRC office for more information or to learn how to join this program.
Communication has always been my passion. Reading, writing, printing and speaking fall into Arts and Sciences in my personal dictionary. Beautiful and necessary, language connects us.
I was about 10 years old when I entered a public speaking competition and won. I still have my dented, tarnished trophy. My great Aunt Flo was a teacher in a one-room school house in the early 1900’s. Not only did she teach the 3R’s, (“Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic”), her curriculum included making sure students, ages 10 – 25, had good shoes. English was her passion too.
My history includes meeting challenges as a single parent. The demands of parenting and health left me with irregular and often infrequent employment. I’m grateful that my grandmother and my mother taught me to always make productive use of my time. Volunteering was a vital part of feeling I was contributing, as well as setting a good example for my daughter. The Richmond Women’s Resource Centre was one of the first places I became involved in ‘giving back to the community’.
I started volunteering as an English facilitator in 2005 at my church. In 2006, while volunteering as an English Conversation facilitator, one of the new learners recommended me to the owner of an English School in Xi’an, China. I accepted his offer of employment in Xi’an. I felt it was a great opportunity to experience ‘hands-on’ training. The Olympics were coming to Vancouver and I wanted to be sure Canada’s best face was showing. I couldn’t have asked for a better education. I gained understanding of what it was like to leave the security of my home and family to develop my skills as an English facilitator and to gain cultural awareness.
When I returned to Vancouver in 2009 I had the good fortune of volunteering at the UBC Learning Exchange in the heart of Chinatown until March 2011. Volunteering also included professional training. After living in Xi’an, China I had a deeper appreciation for the valuable citizens who excel at learning.
I’m humbled that having made a vital connection with the Richmond Women’s Resource Centre that I am part of a wonderful team once again. I can only hope I can give people who attend the English Conversation group, the volunteers and staff as much as they give me.