
At our Zoom meeting on Tuesday, September 5th we were honoured to listen to Tim Koepke’s very impressive classification talk. What fascinating stories you told! We're proud to know you.



During our in person meeting on Tuesday, September 12 the Arbutus Club we heard from Lisa Dominato, City of Vancouver Councillor.
As well, we were thrilled to be able to present a Paul Harris award to Margaret Carley, lead food/event planner/cook for our Ukraine fundraiser dinner. We are so grateful to Margaret for her work.
Teddie Pasut's son Robert presented our club with a $1,000 donation on behalf of Teddie. A very touching donation and a wonderful tribute to Teddie. We miss her.
Our Tuesday Sept. 19th, social was a dim sum lunch at Golden Ocean Seafood.

At our Zoom meeting on September 26 we were given an update by Hugo Velazquez of MOSAIC. Hugo advised that there are currently well over 37,000 migrant workers in BC and more are on their way. They are construction workers, fruit pickers, delivery staff, caregivers, restaurant workers, and more. They do the work that Canadians often don't want to do and our economy depends on them.
Hugo reported on the $5,000 we donated last year. $1,000 went to a Filipina care worker who needed emergency dental surgery for her child, another $1,000 to a Turkish worker who quit a job because he was bulllied, harrassed and then evicted, some funds went to three workers who were unpaid, abused and laid off. Another sum went to three workers (El Salvadorian and Mexican) who were promised jobs in Canada. When they arrived the employer said there was no work for them. MOSAIC was able to fund their meals and hotel for three days, after which they went to a shelter.
We in Canada have been accused of modern slavery. Many of these workers are undocumented and Hugo estimates 30% are living below decent standards. And it will only get worse. 40% of Canadian farmers intend to retire within the next few years and, by and large, they have no succession plan.
We discussed volunteer opportunities such as English conversation, interpretation services, attending events where workers are informed about their rights, meeting with caregivers to listen to their stories, etc.


Our member Dianna Smith is recovering well. In fact she recently got her driving licence! Congratulations Dianna! We look forward to having you back soon.
Service Above Self
Vancouver, BC
Canada