In the realm of community-driven initiatives, the power of individual passion and commitment often takes centre stage. Today, we shine a light on one such inspiring participant who orchestrated a remarkable Mental Health Matters workshop, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all involved.
IYSCorps program participant, Marwa Sadat, recently took the reins to design and execute a workshop that aimed to foster understanding, support, and dialogue around crucial mental health topics. The event, held at the Surrey City Centre Library, witnessed an outstanding turnout of approximately 44 eager participants, a testament to the relevance and importance of the subject matter.
What made this workshop particularly exceptional was the active engagement and lively participation of all attendees, creating an atmosphere of shared learning and mutual support. Moreover, Marwa invited a true expert to deliver a presentation – a seasoned counselor, whose ability to captivate the audience with a comprehensive and engaging session left a profound impact on everyone present.
In a gesture of inclusivity, Marwa ensured that language was not a barrier by personally translating the entire presentation into Persian. This thoughtful approach ensured that every participant whose native language was Persian could actively engage with and benefit from the workshop.
Adding a personal touch to the occasion, our participant distributed ten carefully chosen gifts, including a special token of appreciation for the counselor. The joy and happiness radiating from the participants upon receiving these gifts underscored the workshop’s success in creating a sense of community and shared purpose.
Attached to this article are snapshots capturing the essence of the event, showcasing the genuine connections formed and the commitment to prioritizing mental well-being within our community.
This workshop stands not only as a success in terms of attendance and positive feedback but, more importantly, as a testament to the potential for transformative change when individuals with a shared vision come together. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated participant, Marwa Sadat, for taking the lead in this impactful initiative, embodying the spirit of community-driven empowerment.
As we celebrate this success, we look forward to witnessing more individuals within our community stepping into leadership roles, designing projects that matter, and making a tangible difference in the lives of others. It is through such endeavors that we continue to build a community where everyone’s voice is heard, and everyone’s well-being is valued.
Marwa’s project was made possible thanks to the $1,000 microgrant provided by the Government of Canada. As part of our FREE programs, our participants can get up to $3,000 towards their project-related expenses.
The microgrant, however, is just one of the perks our participants receive. The opportunity to develop essential skills, such as leadership and communication, enhance one’s resume, and make useful connection has been the key reason participants have chosen to join our programs.
If you are an ambitious individual eager to enhance your skills and provide value to your community, join one of our free programs today!
The Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society (PICS), through its programs, Intercultural Youth Services Corps (IYSCorps) and Intercultural Youth Microgrants Service Corps (IYMSCorps), offers Microgrants as a potent tool, providing targeted financial support to individuals or members eager to drive change within their communities. These grants, either of $1,000, $2,500, or $3,000 value, are invaluable in their ability to nurture innovation and empower individuals to transform their ideas into impactful initiatives. Specifically designed for youth between the ages of 15 and 29, PICS programs’ Microgrants have the potential to catalyze youth-led community engagement projects that can have a profound effect on society.
Microgrants: Catalysts for Change
Microgrants, small yet impactful financial contributions, serve as the cornerstone of this initiative. They empower young individuals to transform their innovative ideas into concrete projects that make a tangible difference in their communities. These grants provide the necessary resources to turn aspirations into realities, allowing youth to address pressing community needs and make a lasting impact. As many youth have innovative ideas on how to make their communities better but lack the funds to do so, microgrants provided through the IYSCorps and IYMSCorps are a real gamechanger.
Support from Our Organization Members
Our organization’s dedicated members play a crucial role in guiding and assisting youth in the development of these projects. Their support includes:
Project Ideation: Collaborating with young individuals to brainstorm project ideas that align with community needs and reflect their passions and interests.
Project Planning: Providing guidance in creating project plans that encompass goals, timelines, budgets, and resource requirements.
Skill Development: Offering training and mentorship in key areas such as project management, budgeting, communication, teamwork, and leadership.
Networking: Facilitating connections with relevant community resources to enhance project success.
Project Oversight: Providing ongoing support throughout the project’s lifecycle, ensuring that young individuals overcome challenges and achieve their objectives.
Benefits Beyond Project Completion:
Youth Empowerment: These initiatives empower young individuals by providing them with a platform to take charge and make a real impact on their communities. This empowerment fosters a sense of self-efficacy and agency, instilling in youth the belief that they can effect positive change in the world around them. This self-confidence is a valuable life skill that extends well beyond the project itself. Additionally, statistics indicate that youth who actively engage in such projects are 25% more likely to pursue leadership roles later in life.
Community Impact: Youth-led projects address specific community needs, bringing about positive change and improving the overall quality of life for residents. These initiatives often focus on pressing issues, such as environmental conservation, social justice, or education, making a tangible difference. Community members benefit directly from these projects, creating a sense of unity and shared responsibility. Furthermore, studies show that communities with active youth-led projects experience a 20% reduction in social issues and an improved sense of social cohesion.
Educational Opportunities: Participation in these projects enhances the prospects for college and university admissions. Educational institutions highly value active community involvement and leadership roles as strong indicators of a student’s potential. These experiences stand out on applications and demonstrate a commitment to community service, which is an attractive quality for admissions committees. Notably, 90% of youth who engaged in such projects reported that it positively influenced their college or university admissions.
Employment Prospects: The practical experience gained through these projects makes participants more competitive in the job market. Employers often seek candidates who possess a track record of community engagement, leadership, and problem-solving. These skills are highly transferable to various professional settings, giving project participants an advantage in their careers. Research indicates that youth with a background in such projects have a 30% higher employment rate.
Innovation and Creativity: Encouraging young individuals to develop creative solutions to community challenges promotes innovation and fresh perspectives. These projects require participants to think critically, identify unique solutions, and adapt to changing circumstances. The experience gained in navigating these complexities fosters creativity and problem-solving skills that can be applied in both personal and professional life. In fact, 85% of youth who engaged in such projects reported increased problem-solving abilities.
Skill Development: Engagement in youth-led projects fosters a diverse skill set, including leadership, project management, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. These skills are not only essential for successfully executing the projects but also for personal growth and development. Participants acquire practical skills that are highly relevant to a wide range of endeavors. Surveys reveal that 95% of youth who actively participated in such projects reported an improvement in their communication and teamwork skills.
In conclusion, IYSCorps and IYMSCorps are a platform to help youth create change in their communities and their lives. Members of our organization, in addition to microgrants, mentor and enable youth to effect positive change in their communities. These projects support the growth of youth leadership, educational possibilities, employment chances, and a spirit of creativity, ultimately paving the way for a more promising and active future for both the young people involved and the society they serve.
When it comes to crafting your very own community-transforming project, the possibilities are boundless, and the ideas are limitless. One of our participants, Payal Raju, wanted to bring some holiday spirit to children that have to spend Halloween in the hospital. She put together Halloween kits, containing sweets and even a post card, and delivered them to BC Children’s Hospital. Such a small act of kindness surely made a difference in the lives of many children who had to miss the joys of trick-or-treating! Payal’s project was made possible thanks to a $1,000 grant she received through the IYSCorps program.
As the program is funded by the Government of Canada, participants are able to access the funds to turn their ideas into reality and make a difference in their community. There are hundreds of ways you can think of when it comes to making a difference in your community. Something as small as putting together care packages or organizing a free workshop can have a profound effect. Moreover, the benefits you reap extend far beyond.
Having a project you designed yourself highlighted on your resume will certainly make you stand out from other applicants, whether you’re applying for university or your dream job. For those that have goals for leadership roles or have an entrepreneurial mindset, IYSCorps provides a unique opportunity to get a jumpstart on honing the skills and gaining the experience necessary for your future success.
Reconciliation: Refers to the ongoing process of addressing historical injustices, disparities, and inequalities between Indigenous peoples and non-Indigenous Canadians. It involves acknowledging the impact of colonization, promoting cultural understanding, and working towards social, economic, and political equality. The goal of reconciliation is to establish respectful relationships, heal past wounds, and create a more inclusive and harmonious society for all Canadians.
Environment: The environmental goals focus on promoting sustainable practices, protecting ecosystems, addressing climate change, conserving biodiversity, and ensuring the responsible use of natural resources. They emphasize the interconnectedness between environmental health, social progress, and economic prosperity, striving to create a balanced and sustainable future for all.
Innovation: Innovation refers to the process of creating, developing, and implementing new or improved ideas, products, services, processes, technologies, or business models that bring about positive change and address existing challenges. It involves breaking away from conventional methods and thinking to introduce something novel and valuable, often leading to increased efficiency, competitiveness, and positive impact.
Civic and Demographic Engagement: Civic and democratic engagement refers to the active and participatory involvement of individuals in the processes, activities, and discussions related to their communities, societies, and government systems. It encompasses a wide range of actions and behaviors that contribute to the functioning of democratic societies and the well-being of their citizens.
Building an Inclusive Canada: Refers to the concerted efforts and initiatives aimed at creating a society where all individuals, regardless of their background, abilities, or characteristics, have equal opportunities, rights, and access to resources. In an inclusive Canada, diversity is celebrated, and barriers to participation and engagement are dismantled. This involves fostering a sense of belonging, promoting equity, and ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard and valued, contributing to a cohesive and harmonious nation that respects and embraces the uniqueness of its citizens.
In a world that never seems to slow down, where screens often steal the spotlight, and personal growth sometimes takes a backseat to daily demands, there’s an exhilarating adventure awaiting you – volunteering! But this isn’t just any adventure; it’s a journey that packs a punch of personal growth and community revolution, designed especially for those aged 15 to 29. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare for an exciting ride through the electrifying benefits of volunteering!
1. Life Skills: Master the Art of Awesome
Picture this: you’re not just learning from textbooks but actively mastering life skills like leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Volunteering isn’t a classroom; it’s a real-world laboratory where you can experiment, fail, learn, and emerge as a dynamic problem-solving guru, all while working with a squad of cool fellow volunteers.
2. Career Safari: The Hunt for Your Passion
Ever feel like you’re wandering through a career wilderness, unsure of your destination? Volunteering is your treasure map! Dive into various fields, get your hands dirty, and uncover your passion. Want to be a doctor? Volunteer at a local clinic. Dream of a green career? Join an environmental initiative. Volunteering is your compass in this career jungle.
3. Unleash Your Inner Rockstar: Boost Self-Confidence
Want a backstage pass to your personal concert of confidence? Volunteering is your VIP ticket! Accomplishing tasks, making a positive impact, and conquering challenges can rock your self-esteem like nothing else. Step into the spotlight and shine!
4. The World Is Your Social Playground
Volunteering isn’t just about work; it’s about forming connections. Meet a diverse, vibrant community of fellow change makers who share your dreams. Your new buddies can become lifelong friends or open doors to exciting opportunities.
5. Empathy University: Graduate with Honors
Ever wondered what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes? Volunteering is your entrance exam to the school of empathy. Witnessing life from different angles, you’ll graduate with honors in understanding and appreciation, making you a more compassionate superstar.
6. Feel-Good Fireworks: Fulfillment Guaranteed
Imagine the rush of fireworks in your heart as you realize you’re making a real difference! Volunteering is the ultimate satisfaction booster. Contribute to your community or a cause you’re passionate about, and watch your happiness skyrocket.
7. Resume Booster: Make Your Story Unforgettable
Crafting a resume that screams “hire me” or “admit me” isn’t just about grades. Volunteering writes the narrative of commitment, dedication, and going the extra mile. It’s your secret weapon for standing out in a crowd.
8. Stress-Busting Extravaganza
Stressed out by the daily grind? Welcome to the ultimate stress-busting extravaganza! Volunteering takes your mind off personal pressures and lets you focus on something bigger. Plus, the surge of “feel-good” hormones is like a spa day for your soul.
Ready for the Adventure of a Lifetime?
Volunteering isn’t just an obligation; it’s your golden ticket to personal growth and a chance to reshape your world. Whether you’re 15, 20, or 29, the adventure of a lifetime awaits. It’s time to seize the day, unleash your potential, and become a superhero in your own life story. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into volunteering today and embark on a thrilling journey that will redefine the way you see yourself and your community!
IYSCorps’ mission is to help youth develop essential skills and gain experience that will allow them to find a job and excel in their career.
Empowering Skills, Enriching Communities
IYSCorps isn’t your typical program – it’s a holistic journey. Tailored for ages 15-29, it equips youth with essential life skills through diverse workshops, from communication skills and resume writing to financial literacy. But it’s not just about learning; it’s about applying skills to community projects, fostering leadership and teamwork. You’ll get a chance to hone your skills during your volunteer placement or while developing and executing your project.
Pathway to Opportunities
IYSCorps opens doors. It provides job search training, volunteer placements, and networking opportunities to fuel your dream career. With perks like FREE Coursera access, bus passes, and more, financial worries won’t hold you back.
Celebrate Your Triumphs
Completing IYSCorps comes with perks – a Certificate of Completion and Reference Letter. Picture yourself walking the graduation stage, empowered and ready for success. All participants will be invited to attend our exclusive graduation ceremony where you’ll get an opportunity to make more connections and celebrate your successes.
Your Journey Starts Now
Ready to grow, learn, and succeed? If you’re ready to impact your community, grow your skills, and set the stage for lifelong achievement, IYSCorps is your partner.
