Every year at the Annual General Meeting, a few members are invited to speak about how they became involved with the Community Laundry Co-op, and what it has meant to them. These stories are always moving and inspirational. Nasima Haque’s story – which she shared with the group at this year’s meeting – was no exception.

Haque came to Canada from Bangladesh. Nearly a year ago, she was in search of a part-time job in a non-stressful environment. She found what she was looking for through the Causeway Work Centre (a local community economic development organization that provides employment, educational programs and other supports). Causeway found her work with the Laundry Co-op, and Haque was pleased with the match.

Through the Co-op’s CED Program (where participants are paid for their work on laundry contracts and various other duties around the Co-op), Haque said she developed a range of manual skills, and was also able to earn extra money to pay for medication and a bus pass. She is now a volunteer at the self-service desk.

“I feel comfortable here, it’s a good match for me,” she said.