A group of Shuswap newcomers welcomed the new year with a classic winter outing.
Nineteen participants in Okanagan College香蕉视频直播檚 English as a Second Language Settlement Assistance Program (ESLSAP) recently enjoyed an afternoon of cross-country skiing at Larch Hills. After being fitted for gear at John香蕉视频直播檚 Ski Shack, followed by some some skills training with English instructor, Olia Bullen, and volunteers Martha Wickett and Dave Rittenhouse, the group took to the hills.
Skiers warmed up afterwards with a hot lunch in the chalet, where they had a chance to visit and mingle with others.
香蕉视频直播淭hese activities make a huge difference in helping us adapt to life in Canada," commented program member Aleks Aliabev in an ESLSAP media release.
Aliabev explained such activities provide "opportunities to connect with others, share our cultures, and learn more about Canadian life and our local community.香蕉视频直播�
Aleks and his wife Anna arrived in Salmon Arm last spring from Russia.
Practising their English skills while participating in the local events is a key benefit to program events like the one at Larch Hills.
Wickett offered several aspects she appreciates about volunteering with the program and sharing time with its participants.
"Being a volunteer tutor has helped widen my eyes to some of the realities people face who must flee a country, as well as educating me about another culture and language," said Wickett. "Plus there is the opportunity to meet wonderful new people
"Tutoring also shows me what a difficult and confusing language English can be to learn 香蕉视频直播� and gives me a further appreciation of those who can speak two, three or more languages.香蕉视频直播�
Wickett added events like the ski day are particularly good for having fun together while sharing some of the wonderful attributes of the area.
The ESLSAP program runs out of the Salmon Arm campus and serves eligible adults new to Canada who have settled in the Shuswap. It offers free English classes, one-on-one tutoring and community service referrals for families and individuals.
The initiative is funded through the college's Continuing Studies programming and by Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
Events like the Larch Hills Ski Day are organized to introduce clients to the many unique opportunities the area offers as well as educate them on some of the traditional activities enjoyed in Canada. The next event is in February when group members will try curling for the first time.
For more information on learning English with the ESLSAP program, or to volunteer as a tutor, visit, or contact program co-ordinator Leena Niemela at lniemela@okanagan.bc.ca or 250-200-0231
Photo credit: Aleks AliabevPhoto1: Instructor Olia Bullen provides some beginner ski tipsPhoto2: Volunteer tutor Martha Wicket and ESLSAP student Aracelli Roa (and family) hit the trailsPhoto3: ESLSAP student Mykhailo Svyrydovych doubles up for twice the funPhoto4: ESLSAP student Daria Bulgakova
