Once again, this year, I am enthusiastically fundraising for COMPASS Refugee Centre in the Ride for Refuge on October 4. I'd be grateful for your support. 

I have been on the Board of Directors for seven years.  During that time the challenges that refugee claimants face before and after they arrive in Canada have increased greatly. So has my commitment!

Our COMPASS vision is that "every person coming to Canada seeking refuge has unhindered access to justice and the opportunity to thrive in welcoming communities". 

The people whom we serve have experienced despair, danger, violence, fear, and loss in their home communities They have came to Canada seeking hope, safety, and freedom. We currently have 1,800 clients from 80 different countries in our care.

The first thing we do when we meet them is assure them that they are welcome and that we and our supporters care.

Then we assist them as they gather the documents and prepare the story that they will share with the officials who will decide if they can make Canada their home. We guide them to the resources available to them, and link them into our community. We help unite separated families. 

Look at our website to see what is involved and hear the stories of some of those we serve. https://compassrefugee.ca/our-voices/stories/

All that we do depends on our dedicated staff and volunteers and our donors.

As Chair of the COMPASS Board, I look foward to meeting many of our supporters at the RIDE. Each one of those participants represents many other people who are encouraging and sponsoring them financially. It will be a privilege to thank them.

I welcome your generous support, and I will be glad to thank you!

Jim