Rita Giroux-Patience: Years of Connecting Communities

French Liaison Helps LMLIP Support Newcomers

When Rita Giroux-Patience, a proud member of the local Francophone community, joined the LMLIP, she saw a chance to make a real impact. She identified a crucial gap: French-speaking newcomers needed help accessing support in their own language.

"Being from a French community, it's important to have a link with the LMLIP and us so we can make sure we can advise everyone on what and where they can go for services," Rita says.

Rita's dedication to LMLIP has only grown over time. Her day job as a Community Liaison Officer for Conseil scolaire catholique Providence gives her unique insights into her volunteer work, especially on the LMLIP's education committee.

Her hard work is paying off. "We've found the number of people we've reached and the connections we've been able to provide for people have been amazing," Rita says, clearly proud of what LMLIP has achieved.

But for Rita, it's the personal stories that really matter. She loves initiatives like "I Am London" that showcase individual experiences.

"When I Am London was established, I was amazed to get to know the people and their travels and to be able to recognize their achievements. It is such an honour to be part of," she shares, her face lighting up as she thinks about the inspiring newcomers she's met.

Rita puts her own spin on the LMLIP acronym, seeing it as "Life, Mentor, Leader, Instructor, People" – a creative take that captures how she views the organization's wide-ranging impact.

As LMLIP turns 15, Rita's story shows how much one dedicated volunteer can accomplish. She's helped countless newcomers find their feet in London and Middlesex, breaking down language barriers and bringing people together.

Rita's not done yet, though. "We need to continue to raise the bar to help and continue the success we are known to do," she says firmly, sounding ready for the next challenge.

For Rita, volunteering with LMLIP has been a two-way street. "I can honestly say I have learned so much from the LMLIP. I am honored to be part of the Education committee," she reflects, showing how her volunteer work has enriched her life.

As LMLIP grows and changes, volunteers like Rita Giroux-Patience are its beating heart. They're always working to make the community a better place for all newcomers, regardless of their language.