Saturday, November 16th, 2013 was a milestone for the new up-and-coming Canadian Non-profit Organization known as Redleaf Cultural Integration (referred to as RCI below).
RCI is a new organization that was originated in Burlington, Ontario. The organization held a “test run” fundraiser, a Badminton Fun Night at Glad Tidings Pentecostal Church in Burlington to get the word out about their cause. RCI's goal is to help newcomers to Canada find support in adjusting and becoming more engaged in their community. RCI will provide and organize stimulating events, in the areas of social, health, recreation, and education.
During a brief interview with the founder, Lily Hudson, I learned the motivation behind her drive to create this organization. Lily talked about a personal experience that involved someone she knew who was having a hard time adjusting to life here in Canada. This woman struggled with language barriers, the lack of social interactions, and the inability to get a job. After long suffering in silence of feeling isolated and lacking support, she committed suicide and left her young children and husband behind... As humans, we all need social connections, a sense of belonging, and support from one another.
Lily believes that RCI can help people who have been in those types of situations to reduce their feeling of loneliness and isolation. RCI will provide support structures to help them as they pursue their goals because when people come together, great things can happen.
- Reported by Ruth R.
