United, Paul Works With Others to Make a Difference
Paul Ratana is one of thousands of Winnipeggers who are getting together to change the face of our community one day at a time, one neighbourhood at a time, one project at a time.
Already with what many would consider a full plate, he jumped at the opportunity to work alongside nearly 50 volunteers as part of a United Way Day of Caring.
"For me, one of the most important things about a Day of Caring is working with other people and working towards a common goal," says Paul. "It makes me feel that I'm making a difference in a tangible way and it's really nice to meet people you probably wouldn't otherwise meet in your day-to-day life."
A United Way Day of Caring is a chance to get together and lend some people power to a non-profit group or association for a day or two. While the projects are short term, the impact can last a lifetime.
Paul's first Day of Caring took place as part of a community cleanup in Winnipeg's northwest corner. Working alongside residents of Gilbert Park, he marvelled at how excited and eager neighbourhood kids were to do their part.
"For a lot of these kids, they'll see that they can make a difference in their community by their actions. They can see there are tangible things they can do to help out and get involved."
Beyond the immediate changes in the neighbourhood, Paul believes there is a long-term ripple effect. He says he learned a lot about the community, its cultural mix, and our city as a whole - lessons and experience he'll take with him wherever he goes. He hopes other participants feel the same way.
"It is a rewarding and life-changing experience."
Connected, interdependent, united...we all win when we all work together.
