Our Volunteers
Whether helping set up for a special community event, mentoring a student who needs support, or teaching seniors how to work with technology, volunteers can make valuable contributions to our programs and events.
We are thrilled to introduce you to the incredible individuals who make up our volunteering team and share with you the meaningful contributions they make to us. Click here discover how you can join us in making a positive impact in our community!
Meet our Shining Rocket Stars
Sandy Tang
Digital Specialist
Sandy Tang
Digital Specialist
I am a digital marketing professional with over 15 years of experience in multinational corporations. My expertise lies in user experience, digital and social media engagement and marketing analytics. I led several website & mobile app revamp projects that ultimately brought new customers and value to the businesses.
I treasure the chance to volunteer at Connections Community Services. Not only because I can do what I love but also help others by doing what I am good at. With my diverse background in business, I hope to bring a fresh way of communicating with the organization’s stakeholders.
Outside work and volunteering time, I enjoy hiking and camping with friends to embrace the beautiful nature.
Alison Xu
Team Lead - Volunteer & Leadership Management
Alison Xu
Volunteer & Leadership Management
From elementary to university educations, I had one goal, finish at least a Bachelor degree, and find a career that I can move up, more salary, higher job titles. Now, I’m 40 years old, with vice president from my last work title, with almost $200K salary. I am still feeling empty. Apparently, I have placed my self worth on external elements, work, money, cars, plus a lot of just things. Self worth is internal. The fact that I was born, I am worthy all along. This is exactly what I should model to my daughter, Abby. Thus, I decided to make a huge change in my life, quit my corporate position, take a break and give back to the community, while enjoying the simplicity of life and loving the real me. By modeling simple life, I hope it will guide Abby to fully embrace the process of life, without the burden of searching for self worth. Thus, happiness is naturally within her. Hopefully, during this personal change of loving ‘me’, I may inspire a few more individuals to do the same for themselves.
A little fun fact about me
- Love to sleep – it doesn’t always love me back though!
- Love nature and love skiing – it is a very graceful moment whenever seeing the enormous mountains, reminding me how little I’m and how amazing powerful nature is.
Cherry Chun
Team Lead - Volunteer & Leadership Management
Cherry Chun
Volunteer & Leadership Management
Hello all! My name is Cherry, a local Richmond resident. I have volunteered with CCSS for a little over a year and deeply appreciate the values that the organization upholds – one of which is connecting people from diverse backgrounds to one another.
I am currently working as a technical writer in the aviation industry. One of my favourite things about my line of work is being able to formulate complex subject matter into content that the layman can understand – increasing accessibility. I hope to bring some of my skills and hone new ones by contributing in whatever way I can to help our organization reach and help many more people to come!
Connie Chiu
Human Resources Support
Dennis Tsang
Program Photographer
Dennis Tsang, the founder of the venture, established one of the three largest online photography clubs in Hong Kong, his hometown. Over a decade, the club amassed around 3,000 members at its peak. Throughout this period, the photography club curated more than 150 events, including seminars, competitions, and exhibitions. Dennis possesses a keen eye for capturing the essence of nature in his daily life and the intense emotions of athletes. With a 20-year partnership with Marathon Photos, a global sports stock photography firm based in New Zealand, Dennis has served as the coordinator for the designated photography service of the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon. Volunteering as a photographer for CCSS, Dennis is driven by his passion to capture meaningful moments for program participants. He finds fulfillment in contributing to charitable causes and assisting those in need, guided by the belief that “it is more blessed to give than to receive,” a principle underscored in the teachings of the Bible.
Cora Lai
Lead Coordinator - CVITP
Cora Lai
CVITP Coordinator
Hi, this is Cora, I came to Vancouver in 2022 from Hong Kong. I love Vancouver summer, landscape and good Chinese food. I have been working in the banking & finance industry for years because I enjoy so much meeting people from all walks of life. As Banking industry is so dynamic, I am a flexible & fast learner but will easily get stressed. I will do dancing, yoga to get balances on my mind & body. During yoga, I’m completely free from the work stuff but only high concentration on my body. More important is Having a big feast after exercise is always therapeutic. I’m looking forward to meeting more new friends here as CCSS volunteers, in fact I have met some great wonderful ones.
A little fun fact about me
I can sing in SABT choir & pop karaoke. Singing in SABT always reminds me the good old days at high school that exposed me to diverse genres and styles of music & has enhanced my performance confidence.
Dennis Tsang
Program Photographer
Connie Chiu
Human Resources Support
With over a decade of dedicated experience in human resources, I’ve cultivated a profound understanding and appreciation for the intricacies of human relations. My journey in HR has been more than just a profession; it’s been a passion-driven exploration of connecting with people, understanding their needs, and fostering environments where individuals thrive.
Outside of work, I find joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly in shared experiences of good food and great company. My love for exploring restaurants and savouring diverse cuisines speaks to my belief in the power of connection over a shared meal. Whether enjoying an intimate gathering with close friends or a bustling evening in a lively restaurant, I cherish every opportunity to create memorable moments and deepen bonds.
I am thrilled to be joining CCSS as a volunteer, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to meet and connect with diverse individuals. Together, we can extend our support to the community, making a positive impact and fostering meaningful connections along the way.
Jason Tian
Program Support - Intergenerational Connect
Jason Tian
Program Support Leader (Intergenerational Connect)
Hey! I’m Jason, a high school student in Richmond. I have a bit of experience with hosting events, as I run many clubs at my school which involves a ton of organization and engaging in community service. My days are filled with homework and I am constantly stressed out with AP exams.
When I’m not in school mode, you can find me unwinding with friends, playing games of badminton, or lining up the perfect shot in billiards. I find joy in blending my hobbies with meaningful work at Connections Community Services, where I support seniors in need. I’m keen to expand my skill set through the opportunities presented by my current role.
Joei Yiu
Coordinator - Public Speaking
Joei Yiu
Public Speaking Coordinator
Joei Yiu is a careful and persistent individual that has volunteered for CCSS for over six years. His perceptiveness and willingness to assist have helped CCSS with many projects. Even while working as a security monitor and a freelance writer/editor, he has taken large portion of his free time to volunteer and help with CCSS. Joei is always looking to expand his knowledge and help others in need.
Having an interest in writing, he has developed his skills in academic, business, literary, and creative writing, allowing him to understand and figure out the best way to write different pieces of work to match the situation presented.
Juno Chan
IT System Engineer & Analyst
Juno Chan
IT System Engineer & Analyst
Graduated in The University of Hong Kong, Juno has been designing, developing, implementing and supporting equity trading systems from back to front office, and sitting beside traders for around 16 years. Juno has experience in organizing youth summer camps, taking care of youth fellowships and leading church band composing hymns in church for over 20 years. Juno loves Japanese comics, animations, watching NBA basketball games and enjoys singing.
Kenneth Wan
Program Coordination Support
Kenneth Wan
Program Support
Hello all, I am Kenneth and I am currently a high school student in Richmond, I have accumulated a lot of experience in holding events and programs in the past few years via multiple opportunities both in and out of school. Diligence and effective communication are some strengths of mine and I wish to hone them even more in the years of adventure to come.
With my volunteering opportunities here at Connections Community Services, I can help the ones in need with my thinking and action. Moreover, I can provide my colleagues with invaluable information regarding the youth’s opinions, which would further facilitate the quality of our overall service.
Megan Chen
Social Media Marketing Support
Megan Chen
Social Media Support
Hello all, I’m Megan Chen, currently a high school student in Coquitlam. Over the past few years, I’ve actively engaged in various activities aimed at enhancing my communication and leadership abilities. I would like to major in business in the future. Therefore, through this volunteering opportunity, I aim to not only apply my knowledge to assist others with taxes and social media management but also to gain expertise in the accounting field.
I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to volunteer at Connections Community Services. I’m eager to contribute what I can to the community’s development in the long run.
Sammi Mok
Accounting Support
Sammi Mok
Accounting Support
Hello everyone, I am Sammi. Two years ago, I embarked on a new chapter of my life by relocating to Canada. As a newcomer, I am eager to fully immerse myself in and explore the local community. Joining Connections Community Services fills me with excitement as it offers me an opportunity to actively engage with and contribute to the community. For me, volunteering is about making a positive impact in the lives of others. I strongly believe that even helping out with the smallest tasks can make a real difference to those in need.
With a passion for accounting, I am constantly seeking opportunities to enhance my knowledge and skills in this field. Volunteering in accounting support serves as the perfect avenue for me to learn and grow while also giving back to the community.
In my leisure time, I enjoy playing table tennis and watching movies.
Sherry Yang
Administration Support
Sherry Yang
Office Administration
Hey, this is Sherry. I recently started volunteering in March, so I’m still quite new to it, haha! Being an international student, volunteering opens up a window to the local community for me. It not only gives me a sense of fulfillment from helping others and completing tasks but also provides valuable local and social experiences. It’s something I treasure a lot. Plus, it’s refreshing to gain energy and meet new people outside of the school environment.
On a lighter note, let me share how I unexpectedly became a cat owner. One evening, I found a kitten downstairs near my house. I’d heard stories of people accidentally adopting pets, but I never imagined it would happen to me. She was just a month and a half old, abandoned by a family earlier that day. My neighbor discovered her and explained the situation to me. He couldn’t take her in due to having too many cats, so I agreed to adopt her almost instantly. With no prior experience owning a cat, I embarked on a crash course in pet care. She brought countless moments of joy into my life, and although we’re apart now, I miss her dearly.
Simon Leung
Event Coordination Consultant
Simon Leung
Event Coordination Consultant
Born in Macau, Simon Leung began his career as a program director at Macau Radio Villa Verde in the 1980s, where he produced numerous large-scale programs such as the Industrial Exhibition and Carnival, the Chinese Song Karaoke Contest, and the Voice of Peace Singing Contest.
In the 1990s, he was invited to join the Cultural and Recreation Department of the Macau Municipal Council as a program producer. During his tenure, he produced the Macau Chinese Song Contest and countless other programs of various genres.
After immigrating to Vancouver in 1994, he joined the local Fairchild TV as a PR and Special Project Manager, overseeing large-scale events such as the Vancouver New Talent Singing Contest and the Miss Chinese Vancouver Pageant for several years.
Upon his return to Macau in 2004, he assumed the role of Production Director for a multitude of events. These encompassed the inauguration ceremonies of esteemed establishments such as the Golden Dragon Hotel and Casino, the Grandview Hotel, and the Ponte 16 Resort. Additionally, he played an integral part in orchestrating the World Tourism Economic Forum from its inaugural edition to its eighth iteration. Moreover, he contributed significantly to the Festivities Commemorating the 15th Anniversary of the Macau Handover. The Macau Ceremony of Welcoming the Buddha’s Relic and Offering Prayers.
Meet our Rising Stars
Aaron Z.
Mentor-Tutor
Aaron Z.
Volunteering means giving up personal time, effort, attention, and care for the benefit of other people who need it. Volunteer is meaningful to me because some simple act of giving can not only help people in need but also help ourselves grow and become more resilient, responsible and caring.”
Fun Fact!
- I like cooking
- Steak is my favorite food
Anthony Y.
Mentor-Tutor
Anthony Y.
Volunteering in this capacity means providing support and guidance to seniors as they navigate the digital world, whether it’s learning how to use computers Microsoft, phones, or iPads. It allows me to make a positive impact in the lives of older adults and their families, ensuring they feel empowered and included in today’s digital society.
Fun Fact!
- I have extensive experience as a project programmer, having worked in the field for many years.
Eric W.
Mentor-Tutor
Eric W.
Volunteering means helping my community no matter how big or how small that contribution is. It is meaningful because I know that I am helping my community which feels good.
Fun Fact!
- I play competitive basketball
Let's hear what volunteer says...
Daniel has been one of the most influential figures in my life. Although we have not worked together for an extensive period, he has changed my life immensely. When I was 16, he was the first person who I felt like really believed in me. He gave me opportunities and trusted me with great responsibilities even though I had little experience in a leadership position. With his support, I started to gain my confidence and continued to learn. His constant support allowed me to fail and learn from my mistakes from a young age. I always knew that he had my back and that he would support me through anything. It is so rare that you see an adult trust a young kid and believe in him so much. I believe that every kid could benefit from having a figure like Daniel in their lives. He will never scold you but will give you advice and help through your whole journey. His leadership and generosity were always shown through his actions and his words to the ones that matter to him. His selflessness was recognized by all. Today, I am a young adult and I always tell people that I credit my success to Daniel. He was the first person who believed in and supported me. He gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams and gave me the mindset that I was good enough to do anything I put my mind to. Although we do not always keep in touch, Daniel is someone that I will never forget and that I will forever be grateful for. I know that the lives he changes each and every day mean more to him than anything else. That further reinforces my ideal of Daniel as the best, most selfless leader.