Volunteering can help the world to be a better place

image source

 The Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba (IRCOM) is a non-profit organization proving that volunteering can make a difference in the world.

I recently met Rima, a 35-year-old Syrian refugee living in Winnipeg. She has been here for four months and she doesn’t speak English. Rima has six children between two and 13 years old. The oldest helps to care for his siblings. They all are starting help Rima with her English. They are energetic and caring children who are smiling as never according to Rima.

Rima’s husband is Adnan. He was a doctor back in his country, but because he doesn’t speak English, he now works as a cleaner at a grocery store.

This family came from a refugee camp where Syrians are living in inhumane conditions. The war in Syria has displaced half of the country’s population. An estimate of 11 million people have been killed or forced from their homes. Rima and Adnan’s family is just one of them.

Children playing at a refugee camp. Image source.

Rima remembers the wonderful days before the war. She also recalls the horrifying days at the camp. No water, no food, no clothing. These children have left all behind: their toys, their house and their friends. 

Rima doesn’t like to tell her story. It is too painful for her to remember. She prefers to talk about her children’s future in this city. “They are safe. They are in school, they have water, fruits and proper clothes. I cannot ask for anything else,” said Rima.

Our conversation was translated with the help of a volunteer from IRCOM. Without their help Rima wouldn’t be able to find school, or a place to stay. IRCOM accepts volunteers and donations.

Definitely the world needs more people helping other people.