Vernon and District Immigrant and Community Services Society shared an exciting success story about working with CUAET and Stage II clients in transition. Thank you to Wendy Zarr, Language Services Manager for sharing this approach this inclusive approach to keeping Stage II clients engaged to support Stage I learners.
Pictures and story provided by Wendy Zarr from Vernon and District Immigrant and Community Services Society
When our CUAET clients reached the end of their eligibility for IRCC-funded LINC classes, we faced a challenge: how could we continue to support these dedicated learners who still wanted to improve their English and stay part of the LINC community? The learners that had shown commitment and strong classroom habits, were invited to stay on — this time as classroom volunteers.
Now, these former students help teachers with tasks like setting up laptops, handing out papers, locking up after class, assisting on Zoom, and orienting new learners to PBLA. This support has made classes run more smoothly and allowed teachers to focus on teaching.
Kateryna, one of the first classroom volunteers, says she wanted to give back after her own positive experience as a student. “Being a student helped me learn a lot and build my confidence, so I wanted to help new students on their language learning path,” she explained. “It’s rewarding to see others succeed.” Now, as a volunteer, she feels her speaking skills and confidence have grown even more. For Kateryna, being part of the class is about more than language — it’s about belonging and connection. “Class is not only for learning,” she says. “It’s also a place for community.”
What began as a small idea to bridge a gap has grown into an example of community resilience — where everyone continues to learn, give back, and grow together.
