Host volunteers describe their experiences:

"Christmas was a wonderful experience for us, as we invited 5 new Canadians to our dinner table on Christmas Day. Present were Roman and Jana (from Slovakia), Panteha (from Iran), a friend Iveth from Mexico City and her friend Karim from Tunisia. In total, four continents were represented; the only one missing was Australasia. Our family enjoyed having all these friends from such different backgrounds join us for our special celebrations. I know it was an experience of a lifetime for all of us and made each one present realise how small our world really is."

"I have been involved in conversation circles for about one year. I chose to do this because I am an immigrant as well and came to Canada in August 1989. I enjoy doing this very much for many reasons. I have an opportunity to help others learn and become more familiar with the English language. I also have an opportunity to meet people from other countries, learn about their cultures etc. I have met immigrants from Mexico, Spain, Venezuela, Columbia, Turkey, Vietnam etc. These people are very friendly, happy to be in Canada and enjoy very much the time at Host Conversation Circles. It is a great opportunity for anyone interested in developing their English skills. When topics are brought up for discussion, getting input from people from different countries is quite interesting because once again, you get to learn about their upbringing and background."

"The most important issue for landed immigrants is interpersonal contacts and warm encouraging words that help them to overcome their difficult integration period. The Host Program is a bridge that links the newcomers with more experienced immigrants, providing them with practical tips how to making this crucial integration time as short as possible. The apparently simple things that we take for granted, such as buying a monthly pass, making a long-distance call, finding a family doctor or a local food bank might make an inexperienced newcomer desperate. We, the volunteers, are facilitating their first steps on the Canadian soil."