We are proud to support people from many different backgrounds and experiences.
Volunteer Stories
"I also want you to know how much my time at RMCS has meant to me. Coming to Canada from a small town in Pakistan, everything felt new, and volunteering with RMCS was where I found my footing. Working at the front desk was my first-ever front desk experience, and my time at the thrift store taught me so much as well. Those experiences helped me build my confidence, communicate with people, and handle a professional environment, and they've helped me in so many ways since, including in my interviews. Your kindness and support have meant a lot to me." - Bareera
"When I first came to Canada, everything felt unfamiliar. I didn't know how things worked, and I lacked confidence because I didn't have the information or experience.
Volunteering at RMCS helped me step out of my comfort zone. Over time, I learned how to help people at the front desk, communicate with confidence, and feel more comfortable in my community.
As a newcomer, I wanted to learn more about Canada and become part of the community. Through volunteering, I met people, made friends, and developed a sense of belonging.
What began as an opportunity to gain experience became much more meaningful. By helping others, I found that my own stress and anxiety became easier to manage.
One thing I did not expect was the friendships I would build. RMCS has become a place where I feel welcomed, valued, and supported." – Zoe
"I began volunteering with RMCS in Grade 10, at a time when I was quite shy and nervous about speaking on the phone.
However, I have grown much more confidences during my time here.
I truly enjoy being part of this community and appreciate everyone I’ve met along the way.
I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute and support others!” - Fion
"Working as a Front Desk Volunteer at Richmond Multicultural Community Services has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It has given me the opportunity to support people from diverse cultures while developing my communication skills in a meaningful way.
I would also like to highlight the strong support provided by the RMCS team, which made this experience even more positive and enriching. Their guidance, encouragement, and collaboration truly make a difference in the work we do.
Through this experience, I have learned the value of community, inclusion, and helping others. It has been inspiring to connect with people from different backgrounds and contribute to creating a welcoming environment for all.
I encourage everyone to consider contributing to this organization and supporting people from diverse cultures in our community.
Thank you to the RMCS team and all the clients for this amazing experience." - Liliane
"Volunteering at the thrift store has been such a rewarding experience, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the RMCS volunteer team.
The warmth and kindness from everyone made it feel like more than just a volunteer role. It felt like being part of a family.
I’ll miss being there, but I’m excited for this new chapter.
Your encouragement means so much. I’ll be sure to keep in touch and update you on how things are going." - Wenwen
“What I enjoyed most about volunteering at the Thrift Store was the sense of purpose. It felt like everything I did contributed to something meaningful.
Being part of the RMCS Thrift team was especially meaningful because of the people. There was a strong sense of collaboration and kindness that made me feel welcomed, valued, and supported.
Volunteering at RMCS Thrift had a positive impact on me personally. It helped me develop a greater appreciation for the importance of community support systems and the role they play in helping people thrive.
What motivated me to keep coming back was knowing that my time and effort were helping others, while also being part of such a supportive and positive environment.
RMCS Thrift makes a difference by providing affordable access to clothing while creating a space where people feel welcomed, connected, and supported.” - Reinaldo
English Language Training & Seniors Group
"Before joining the ELT program, I was very shy and afraid of making mistakes when speaking English. I often avoided talking to other people, especially in places like hospitals and restaurants.
Through the program, I gained confidence and learned practical communication skills for everyday life. Now, I feel much more comfortable speaking English and handling situations that once felt intimidating.
I can make restaurant reservations, call a car dealership to arrange repairs, and communicate more confidently with others. The real-life dialogues we practiced in class were especially helpful, and Annie's teaching made a big difference in my learning.
I hope this program continues because it helps so many people. It has given me the confidence to volunteer and look for part-time work, and I feel much more prepared to communicate in English in my daily life." - Sammy
"I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed our conversation class. I learned a lot about the language and also about Canadian culture. I made new friends and appreciated learning about their backgrounds and stories. You did a great job managing the group and made sure everyone had a chance to participate." - Esteban
Employment Success
"My experience with Richmond Multicultural Community Services (RMCS) has been incredibly positive. When I was facing challenges with language barriers, job searching, and feelings of isolation, RMCS became a source of support and encouragement. The welcoming atmosphere made me feel valued and connected.
The cultural events organized by RMCS celebrated diversity and helped me feel at home in my new community. In addition, the English classes, networking groups, and job search workshops provided valuable support throughout my settlement journey.
Volunteering with RMCS was another meaningful part of my experience. Not only did I enjoy helping others, but I also strengthened my communication skills, expanded my professional network, and gained confidence in pursuing employment opportunities.
I am deeply grateful for the support I received from RMCS. I wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone facing similar challenges.
RMCS is more than a community organization; it is a place of connection, belonging, and hope." — Sima
Educational Pathways
"Working with RMCS was one of the best decisions I made for my educational journey in Canada.
Before connecting with RMCS, I worked as a financial analyst for a small company. While I valued that experience, I felt it was time to advance my career and explore new opportunities. As a mature student balancing family, work, and future goals, I was unsure about my next academic step.
The RMCS team provided professional guidance, encouragement, and personalized support throughout the application process. Their patience, honesty, and encouragement helped me move through each step with confidence.
What truly sets RMCS apart is its commitment to the community. I also had the privilege of volunteering with the organization and contributing more than 50 hours of service each year. Volunteering enriched my life in Canada and allowed me to support others in meaningful ways.
I was especially inspired by Yoshimi and the team's genuine passion for helping people. Rather than focusing only on applications, they cared about long-term success and integration. For example, the French training sessions they organized were incredibly helpful and demonstrated their dedication to providing well-rounded support.
The results exceeded my expectations. I received admission offers from three universities: SFU, Royal Roads University, and the University of Victoria. After careful consideration, I chose the Master of Education in Leadership program at the University of Victoria.
This achievement would not have been possible without their expert guidance and constant encouragement. I highly recommend Yoshimi and the RMCS team to anyone considering higher education opportunities in Canada.
Thank you for being part of this important milestone in my family's journey." — Joseph