Kim Shares His Gifts

When Kim arrived in Canada in 1982 he was faced with an overwhelming change of culture. His strong spirit and positive attitude helped him to adjust to significant obstacles and to become a contributing member of his new community.

Through his involvement with the Winnifred Stewart Association, Kim has discovered his many gifts and found opportunities to share them.

Kim is a talented artist. Through his involvement at the Nina Haggerty Centre for the Arts, he has sold several of his illustrations, including one to the Gachet Gallery in Vancouver. Kim's involvement at the Association has given him a chance to give back to his community. Twice a week, he volunteers at the Edmonton Chinatown Care Centre helping the kitchen staff to prepare for meals and to clean up afterwards. "We really appreciate Kim's help at the centre," says his employer, Kin. "Whenever I ask him if he is enjoying work, he just smiles. He is very proud to be here."

In his free time, Kim creates music compilations for friends at the centre. He has a great love for music, and sings Karaoke with his sister at the Chinatown Care Centre.

Kim's first language is Cantonese and, although communication can sometimes be a challenge, he is supported to find a means of sharing his culture with people at WSA. During the Chinese New Year, he introduced his circle of friends to the cuisine and traditions of the occasion in Chinatown.

Cooking classes at the Association have also empowered Kim with life skills and allowed him to help out at home with his aging parents. "His spirit and outlook on life has changed since returning to the Association," says his sister. "He is healthy and happy when he is outside, staying active in the community and interacting with friends." Thanks to the support of his loved ones, the community, and the Winnifred Stewart Association, Kim continues to realize his talents and share his gifts.