Longtime Volunteer Finds Community Through The Salvation Army
For more than 12 years, Moojin Lee, who goes by MJ, has dedicated much of his time to volunteering with The Salvation Army, helping newcomers, families and children in various ways.
MJ also works full-time, which makes his dedication even more impressive. Every week, he visits The Salvation Army’s Living Hope Community Church in Winnipeg to give back to the organization that once helped his family.
“The Salvation Army made it easier for my children and me to learn English and about Canadian culture when we first arrived. So that is why I like them and now give my time to help people,” MJ shares.
“The Salvation Army welcomed us and now I consider them family.”
The support his family received relieved one of the biggest challenges many newcomers face: the language barrier. MJ’s children were also tutored at The Salvation Army, which helped them adjust to school.
That experience inspired MJ to volunteer.
Today, he assists with the ESL English Café and a child-minding program. He is also a full-time chef, which makes him a valuable member of Living Hope’s kitchen team.
MJ’s day begins at 6:30 a.m., he finishes work at 6 p.m. and then heads to The Salvation Army to volunteer during the evening.
“I can give back by making them happy.”
“I’m 50 years old and that is just my routine. I work every day, but I avoid alcohol and coffee. Just good meals and a bit of exercise keep me going.”
At The Salvation Army, MJ appreciates the opportunity to connect with newcomers and help brighten their days.
“We have people from Europe, Asia and Africa here and while my English is not great, I can give back by making them happy,” MJ says.
Reflecting on his journey with The Salvation Army, MJ believes that the organization’s welcome when his family first arrived had a major impact on their lives.
“We were immigrants, so we had no friends here. The Salvation Army welcomed us and now I consider them family.”
His commitment is now rubbing off on his children, who he says are now also volunteering.
By Juan Romero
