IWSO appreciates the contribution volunteers make to our programs, services and activities.
IWSO needs you! If you are interested please forward your letter of interest to IWSO at

 volunteer@iwso.ca 

Volunteering Stories

“In every religion there is a saying, good deeds bring goodness and happiness, and that was my belief too.” Maryam Habib shares her experience volunteering with IWSO

Marieann Thottungal, is a part-time administrative assistant with IWSO. She also devotes her time as a volunteer helping newcomer women study and prepare for their citizenship exams. Marieann shares her story about why she was drawn to IWSO and the satisfaction she receives helping the immigrant and racialized women we serve.

Yoga Instructor Volunteer

I have been volunteering with Immigrant Women Services Ottawa (IWSO) as a yoga instructor since January 2023. I provide weekly, online yoga classes that include a combination of hatha and vinyasa flows, as well as restorative yin sessions.

My name is Odette Laurin and I started volunteering at Immigrant Women Services Ottawa (IWSO) in July 2019. I had been retired for a couple of years and I wanted to get involved with an organisation that was helping women. I have always been sensitive about the condition of women and how they are so often unfairly treated.

Solange Mattar is a volunteer with IWSO offering yoga and meditation. She teaches every Thursday at 7:00pm via zoom to a lovely group of women. The online class is inclusive to all, gentle and a great way to end your day!

When I was a little girl, I would often hear family members recount their personal experiences of leaving their beloved homes and humble roots, emigrating from the Philippines in search of a better life. Growing up, I quickly realized that these stories of sacrifices and challenges are common narratives shared amongst many immigrants.

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Immigrant Women Services Ottawa
219 Argyle Avenue, Suite 400
Ottawa, Ontario
K2P 2H4
Tel: 613-729-3145
Fax: 613-729-9308