Volunteer Story: Phuong
“I do not have good digital skills.” Phuong was humble about her volunteer work with the Seniors. “When you teach other people, you learn more yourself. When I was at work, I did have some computer experience, but not with Personal Computers. We used email. As for iPhone and iPad, I only picked them up after retirement, little by little.”
Phuong was born in Saigon (now known as Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam. She then left Vietnam to study Commerce in Japan where she met her husband and got married.
“After Vietnam became a Communist Country, many Vietnamese Students were stuck in Japan. We either stayed in Japan, or we had to look for a country to immigrate to. So my husband and I decided to come to Canada.” Phuong worked as an Import Clerk at a Steamship Company. Her husband, becoming a Mechanical Engineer in Japan, had to study Electronics Design in order to enter the Electronics field in Vancouver.
Phuong and her husband raised a son and a daughter who both went to the After-School Program at Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House.
After retiring from the workforce in 2013, Phuong started participating in Frog Hollow’s Seniors Programs. “There were so many Wellness Programs at Frog Hollow. The first Program I attended was Tai Chi, Monday to Thursday mornings from 8:15 – 9:00 “ she recollected. Phuong has become an active member of the Frog Hollow Community ever since.
“Many of our Volunteers are so humble. They have no idea how much of a positive impact they’ve brought to the Community. They are our treasures and I really honour their contribution.” Manda, the Family and Seniors Programmer at Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House says.
Phuong was one of the Neighbourhood Safety Ambassadors for the “Vancouver Walk and Be Seen” Project, a Volunteer of the Chinese Community Response Network’s “Warmth Giving Caring Action,” and a Member of Frog Hollow’s Multicultural Senior Advisory Committee.
When Covid-19 struck 2 years ago, all of our Programs had to be moved online. Phuong signed up to become a Digital Volunteer, helping other Seniors to stay connected during these testing times.
“In the beginning, it was very hard. They (the seniors) were confused. They couldn’t tell the difference. How to use them (the apps) while each app was different from the others. After learning once, they had to use it multiple times in order to remember. Then after a while, they would forget. They would have to do it all over again. So we need to be patient and we need to spend a little more time with them.”
Besides helping at Frog Hollow, Phuong and her husband also volunteer at Mount Pleasant Community Centre setting up the Ballroom Dancing Group for Seniors. Phuong also loves dancing, swimming and hiking with her daughter.
Empowering Social Inclusion Through
Community Engagement
Volunteer Story: Chio
“I get that warm feeling of being at home when I share smiles, hugs, jokes, ideas and when I’m lucky to help someone in need. My life has evolved in ways I couldn’t have imagined without volunteering at Frog Hollow.“
Volunteer Story: Samuel
“Volunteering helps you gain a sense of community…to give back to the community that has raised you.“
Volunteer Story: Connie & YJ
“It was so much fun chit-chatting, meeting new friends while cooking together at Frog Hollow’s community kitchen.“
Volunteer Story: Jose
“I remember my mom..we weren’t rich… when I was a kid… my mom was really generous. (If) she had a loaf of bread; she would be sharing half with somebody. We didn’t have much bread; she never had an issue with that (sharing with others)…and basically.. (I)learn by example. She passed away a couple of years ago. I am pretty sure she would be so happy to see me do what I do now..if she were alive, she would enjoy (volunteering) a lot.“
Donor Story: Lanny
Lanny would take her 92-year-old mother who lives in the Hastings-Sunrise neighbourhood for walks, and that was when she first found Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House...
Donor Story: Bob
“Frog Hollow’s authentic, grassroots approach to community support resonates with me”, says Bob. “I am looking forward to seeing the new trike in action at Frogs in the Park this summer!”
Robyn's Story
Robyn's smile is infectious; there's something about her that's humbling, warm, and approachable. Despite volunteering with us for just around a year, her familiar face graces many of our programs. Following her one-on-one digital support sessions with seniors, we approached her about sharing her story......
Saeed's Story
In the vibrant communities of East Vancouver, where diverse cultures intertwine, a journey of transformation began for Saeed, a newcomer seeking a fresh start in Canada.
Parnian's Story
Empowering Women: WOW Program as Stepping Stone to Career Success in Canadian Job Market
J.L.'s Story
J.L. joined Gordon House’s Seniors in Action after her husband’s death, finding social support and purpose. She now participates in activities, volunteers, and advocates for seniors, feeling valued and included.
Masi's Story
Masi overcomes language barriers by hosting sewing classes, sharing food, and performing music, creating a welcoming environment. Her home has become a social hub, helping her practice English and connect with others.
John's Story
John, once a shy eighth grader, found a second home at CCNH. He created "Seniors Stories" to connect with elders, documenting their experiences. Now an ambassador, John helps new youth feel welcomed.
Kiko's Story
Kiko, feeling isolated after moving, joined the SS/WR Youth Collective at 16, finding a safe LGBTQ2S space. Now a staff member, Kiko runs programs and inspires others, fostering community and inclusion.
Barb's Story
Barb, once homeless and isolated due to health issues and PTSD, joined the Kwayastsut Community Engagement Program. It helped her overcome fears, build self-esteem, and regain a sense of community and purpose.
Wing Sun's Story
Wing Sun, once isolated and facing wheelchair dependency, joined the Beulah Adult Day program. He found friendship with Helen and remained active, avoiding the need for a wheelchair for nearly five years.
Benelda's Story
Benelda, after moving to Canada in 2008, found connection at Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House. There, she gained confidence through volunteering, leading programs, and receiving support, helping her adjust and thrive.
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