The HSCA Volunteer Spotlight will introduce (or reintroduce) our community to HSCA staff, volunteers, and members of the Hillhurst Sunnyside Community. If you know of a resident interested in participating in the HSCA Spotlight Series, email Stephanie.c@hsca.ca with SUBJECT LINE: HSCA Spotlight. We know our community is full of awesome residents and captivating stories and we’re hoping to share that with everyone!
As part of the HSCA Spotlight Series, allow us to introduce you to HSCA volunteer, Sima! Sima has played an important role in our Neighbour Night evenings, by screening and leading discussions for our Movie Nights. Sima (along with Abir featured in our other Volunteer Spotlight), has made elaborate activity kits for program participants out of recycled and donated materials! Covid has not stopped Sima from sharing her talents with the community safely, and we are so grateful to have their support and ability to connect! Outside her volunteer work at HSCA, Sima is also promoting her new book ‘Mindful Meditation’ available on Amazon.
How long have you lived in Hillhurst-Sunnyside? What do you like about living here?
I actually live in Ranchlands, but have been embraced by Hillhurst-Sunnyside :) It's a great community with a lot of social justice initiatives.
How did you get involved in volunteering in our community?
I started volunteering through the HSCA, and through Hillhurst School.
What kind of volunteer activities have you done?
My friend Abir and I do crafty activities, though with COVID-19, I have done documentary film screenings over the past year, mostly short films from CBC GEM. Sometimes we do more interactive games.
What would you tell others in the community about volunteering? What do you like most about volunteering in the community?
The people at HSCA are excellent, always friendly and open. The event participants always give great feedback, especially when they have learned something new.
What is a hidden gem in the community you have discovered and would like to share?
I have always loved Senator Burn's Park, just north of Riley Park will all the flowers during the summer.