Congratulations to all the volunteers in the community 鈥� whether formal or informal 鈥� who make our community better every single day. We appreciate all you do!
One such volunteer is Ruba Qumi, the amazing Central Okanagan Family Hub coordinator, who started as a volunteer for KCR Community Resources because she believed so strongly in the difference that KCR and The Family Hub make in the lives of families.
Ruba shares her story to encourage others to volunteer at the Hub, to be a part of the team that provides a safe, family-focused space where both kids and their parents can thrive.
Ruba was born and raised in Jordan, the land of earth-shattering landscapes and the mesmerizing Dead Sea.
Ruba has lived on three Continents so far: Asia (Jordan), Africa (Namibia) and North America (Canada) and has a Masters in Environmental Sciences and Management.
Ruba and her husband Sam Belete, a local realtor, have two young sons.
鈥淲hat initially attracted me to KCR was that when my husband visited 91大黄鸭 (we were still living in Namibia), he met a settlement worker form KCR and they exchanged several emails鈥� Ruba explained, sharing that husband Sam had come here to explore the possibility of the family moving to the Okanagan.
鈥淎fter exploring KCR鈥檚 website, I felt strongly about wanting to work there. Upon our move to 91大黄鸭, KCR provided invaluable assistance to my family in settling in and securing employment.
鈥淎ttending their workshops enriched my knowledge, prompting me to begin volunteering. At the onset of the pandemic, I volunteered with the Family Hub.
鈥淚t was my first year as a newcomer to Canada, while my husband juggled both studying and working. With the responsibility of caring for our two young boys, I often grappled with feelings of fear, isolation, and concern, especially for distant family members. My volunteering experience at the Hub became a turning point for me. Meeting with the hub coordinators at parks allowed me to explore and appreciate the beauty of 91大黄鸭, while also forging connections with other families.
鈥淭hrough extending support to them, I discovered a profound sense of purpose and belonging. It proved to be a source of solace and strength during challenging times. For me, volunteering is a journey of self-discovery and continuous improvement鈥nd finding true happiness.
For Ruba, the Family Hub is more than a service provider 鈥� it鈥檚 a welcoming second home for families.
鈥淗ere, meaningful friendships are established, and bridges of cultural awareness and understanding are built,鈥� enthused Ruba. 鈥淔amilies from diverse cultures, backgrounds, races, and religions come together, befriend one another, and offer mutual support. It鈥檚 a place where connections are formed and where everyone feels a sense of belonging.鈥�
鈥淲e believe that by creating a supportive community where families can connect with one another, share experiences, and receive support, we can strengthen the fabric of our society and promote well-being for all.
鈥淭he Hub is a happy place where the innocence of little toddlers, the resilience of families, and true positive transformations are witnessed. It鈥檚 a testament to the power of community and the profound impact that support and connection can have on individuals and families alike.鈥�
Ruba is currently recruiting volunteers to be a part of building that support and connection. Volunteers are essential to the success of the Family Hub as their dedication, enthusiasm, and willingness to give their time makes a tangible difference in the lives of families they serve.
Without volunteer support, Ruba says they would not be able to provide the comprehensive assistance and resources that families rely on to thrive.
鈥淢ost volunteer opportunities are in-person, allowing volunteers to directly engage with families and provide hands-on support.
鈥淲e offer diverse volunteer opportunities to suit different preferences and skill sets. Whether individuals are looking for short-term commitments, flexible scheduling, or opportunities to directly engage with families, there are options available to get involved and make a meaningful impact in our community.鈥�
To connect with Ruba and the Family Hub, email info@cofh.ca or call 250-826-6264.
Dorothee Birker is the communications & development manager for KCR Community Resources.
