The Immigrant Welcome Centre, also known as the Multicultural & Immigrant Services Association (MISA) of North Vancouver Island is celebrating 30 years of promoting diversity.
The organization was created in 1992 and provided English-language classes and held multicultural events.
The association later started offering interpreting and settlement services.
The centre has now served nearly 14,000 people who have settled in the North Island area.
“MISA has the privilege of being part of a vast network of community-minded organizations who truly work together to enhance the cultivation of welcoming communities,” said MISA executive director Jim Brennan.
The Courtenay and Campbell River locations have both remained open throughout the past two years during the COVID-19 pandemic and offered virtual and hybrid services.
“MISA’s services have never been more needed, and our staff and volunteers have never been more challenged to find creative and effective ways of reaching out to continue to provide services,” said board chair Doug Preston. “As we look forward, I would like to thank all the volunteers, staff and board members old and new for your willingness to become involved in your community and for choosing to actively support the purposes and goals of MISA.”
