A Community United: Newcomers Embrace Winter at Polar Fest
The City of Moncton recently hosted its third annual Polar Fest, a vibrant winter festival at Centennial Park, bringing the community together to celebrate the beauty of winter. This highly anticipated event featured a variety of winter-themed activities, including ice skating, snowshoeing, live performances, and interactive exhibits that highlighted the magic of the winter season. The festival provided an opportunity for residents and visitors to embrace the colder months while enjoying the warm sense of community spirit that Moncton is known for.
Settlement Support Network: Helping Newcomers Integrate
As a settlement agency committed to fostering integration and community engagement, Moncton Cares proudly contributed to the festival’s success by providing over 40 dedicated volunteers to support the event. These volunteers, many of whom are newcomers experiencing their first winter in Canada, embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and resilience. For many, it was an unusual and entirely new experience—stepping out into the cold for long hours to support a community event while adjusting to winter temperatures. Some volunteers were amazed by the snow-covered landscape, while others took this as an opportunity to immerse themselves in Canadian winter culture.
Immigrant Support Through Volunteering
Despite the freezing weather conditions, our volunteers displayed remarkable commitment by taking on key responsibilities such as guiding attendees, assisting with event logistics, and ensuring a seamless experience for all visitors. Some volunteers worked full 8 to 10-hour shifts, demonstrating an extraordinary level of dedication and perseverance. Their efforts were instrumental in ensuring that guests enjoyed a well-organized and safe event.
A Multicultural Association Creating Belonging
At Moncton Cares, we understand that volunteering is not just about giving back—it’s also about learning, connecting, and growing. Events like Polar Fest allow newcomers to develop valuable skills, build confidence, and establish meaningful connections within their new community. We take immense pride in providing such opportunities and supporting our volunteers throughout their journey.
Settlement Agency Providing Essential Support
To ensure that our volunteers remained warm and energized, we made sure they had access to warm meals and an unlimited supply of hot chocolate—a small but heartfelt gesture to show our appreciation. Hot chocolate quickly became a favorite among the volunteers, providing both comfort and a moment of warmth amid their duties.
Newcomers and the Power of Community Engagement
The impact of Moncton Cares’ volunteers at Polar Fest was truly inspiring. Their willingness to contribute despite facing unfamiliar and challenging conditions speaks volumes about their determination and commitment to making a difference. Beyond their physical contributions, they brought positive energy, smiles, and a welcoming atmosphere that resonated with festival attendees.
The event also served as a bridge between cultures, allowing newcomers to interact with local residents, learn about winter traditions, and gain firsthand experience in Canadian seasonal festivities. By being part of such an important city event, they felt a sense of belonging and pride in their new home.
Join Our Multicultural Association and Volunteer
A huge thank you to all the volunteers who braved the cold and gave their time and energy to this event. Your efforts make a significant impact, and we are beyond grateful for your dedication. This is just one of many ways Moncton Cares continues to foster a strong, supportive, and welcoming community.
We look forward to participating in more community events and continuing our mission of creating inclusive and enriching experiences for all.
If you are a newcomer looking for opportunities to engage with the community, we welcome you to join our volunteering programs! Together, we can make Moncton a better place for everyone.
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