Moving to a new country is always challenging, but for Yoon Mi, a mother of one from South Korea, coming to the United States brought opportunities she never imagined. One of the biggest challenges she faced was learning English. She knew that to navigate her new life effectively, communicate with her child’s teachers, and integrate into her community, she needed to improve her language skills. But learning English as an adult isn’t easy—so Yoon Mi found a unique and meaningful way to practice: volunteering.
When she heard about opportunities to volunteer with UR Community Cares Tech Center, she realized it was the perfect way to not only help others but also immerse herself in her new language. As a natural caregiver, Yoon Mi was eager to give back, and volunteering gave her the chance to support older adults while learning about the culture and language around her. Click here to meet Yoon Mi!
Volunteering as a Path to Growth
Yoon Mi began by helping at the Tech Center, assisting seniors who needed support in learning to use their phones and computers. She found that explaining basic tech skills, like sending emails or making video calls, was a two-way learning experience. As she helped older adults grasp technology, they, in turn, taught her conversational English and shared their stories of American life. She learned phrases and expressions that she wouldn’t have picked up in a formal classroom setting—those little pieces of language that bring conversations to life.
She would practice her greetings, small talk, and even more complex instructions, and she started to feel more comfortable communicating with the people around her. She has transitioned to working with me to help us in our Neighbors Helping Neighbors program, she can not only have the opportunity to practice English but also a real sense of belonging, something that was hard to come by when she first arrived.
Finding a Sense of Belonging
One of the highlights for Yoon Mi has been the relationships she’s built through volunteering. Many of the older adults she works with love hearing about her life in Korea, her culture, and even the foods she likes to cook. They share recipes (like Japchae pictured to the right) and laughter, creating bonds that cross cultural and generational divides. It’s a beautiful exchange of stories and perspectives, and has found friends who make her feel more at home. Click here to read this NBC article: Eating kimchi every day could help stave off weight gain, new study says!
Her story is a powerful example of how volunteering can bring people together in unexpected ways. Through helping others, she gained more than just improved language skills—she gained confidence, friendships, and a sense of purpose in her new community. She’s proud to know that her efforts make a difference, and her child see her as a role model for resilience and kindness.
A Win-Win for the Community
Volunteering not only helps Yoon Mi grow as a person but also benefits the community. Her dedication and cultural background bring unique perspectives to UR Community Cares, enriching the experiences of everyone she interacts with. She has become a bridge between cultures, helping older adults learn about Korea while she practices her English and navigates American life.
Yoon Mi’s journey is a reminder that volunteering is more than just giving time—it’s about connection, learning, and making a difference in each other’s lives. By stepping out of her comfort zone, Yoon Mi found a community that welcomes her, appreciates her contributions, and supports her growth.
We are so grateful for volunteers like Yoon Mi who show us that giving back can be a journey of personal growth and cultural exchange. If you’re interested in volunteering, no matter your background or skill level, we encourage you to join us. Together, we can create a community where everyone feels at home.
I can’t wait to try Kimchi,
Michelle Puzzo, Executive Director
860-430-4557
info@urcommunitycares.org
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