When Mercy speaks about the CSI Summer Learning Enrichment Program, her passion and gratitude are evident. Mercy’s story is not just one of a leader shaping young lives but also of a life transformed by the opportunities CSI and BGC Winnipeg have provided.

Mercy’s journey with BGC Winnipeg began in 2007 when she was introduced to the program while pursuing her education and raising her children.  

“When my youngest child turned five, I made the decision to return to school full-time. During that time, I met another student, Marjorie White, who was taking summer courses. She encouraged me to apply for a summer school teaching position – an opportunity I eagerly pursued.”

As a newcomer to Canada, she understood firsthand the challenges that families face – loneliness, isolation, and the struggle to build a future in an unfamiliar environment.When the opportunity arose to work with CSI during the summers, she embraced it, driven by a desire to give back.  In 2010, Mercy became a Teacher Coordinator for CSI, a role she held until 2015. Reflecting on her commitment, she shares, “Many times other teachers would ask me, ‘Don’t you miss your summers?’ But my answer was always no, because I saw the value – the incredible impact CSI has on children and families.”

The CSI Summer Learning Enrichment Program is much more than a summer camp. It provides children with academic support, social development, and meaningful connections. Mercy describes the program’s holistic approach: “We run CSI like school – with expectations, academic levels, and curriculum alignment. But we also make learning fun. Kids who couldn’t read by the end of summer would leave loving books. Children afraid of water would confidently play in the shallow end. That’s what CSI does for kids.”

For newcomer families, the impact is even more profound. Mercy recounts stories of children who arrived with no English, leaving five weeks later more confident, connected, and prepared for the school year. The program also eases parents’ burdens, offering meals and a safe, engaging environment for their children while they focus on employment or education.

One of the most rewarding aspects of CSI for Mercy is witnessing the long-term impact on children and leaders. She recalls Ian, a shy student who blossomed into a confident mentor by the end of the program. Years later, Ian returned as a teacher, inspired by his experience at CSI.

The program also shaped Mercy’s own career. Her leadership at CSI helped her develop skills that propelled her to roles as an EAL teacher, guidance counselor, and eventually a school principal. “CSI gave me wings to fly,” she reflects.

As she looks back on her journey, Mercy is deeply grateful to BGC Winnipeg and the donors who make programs like CSI possible. “They’ll never know the depth of lives they’ve changed,” she says. “CSI works – in all dimensions. It changes children, leaders, and the future.”

For Mercy, giving back is a lifelong commitment. Her mantra says it all: “I am giving back what I have received.” She encourages everyone to support CSI, knowing the difference it makes. “We need more agents of change,” she says. “Together, we can give hope to families and build a brighter future for our community.”