2 min read

Ayush's Story: Compassion for Community

Ayush's Story: Compassion for Community

“Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.” Ayush came across this Chinese proverb in high school, but didn’t experience the power of these words until he came to Mission Possible. He shares, “Here, I witnessed this proverb in action—but with a unique twist. At Mission Possible, they not only teach you how to fish, but they also provide support along the way, empowering you to become a skillful, self-reliant fisherman. They make sure you have what you need until you’re ready to thrive on your own.”

Born and raised in India, Ayush made the move to Canada in August of 2023 for his studies. He attended the New York Institute of Technology in Vancouver, but he found it difficult to find work and access opportunities. He heard about MP while volunteering at a drop in center in the community, and within two weeks of working at MP, Ayush started applying for additional work. "The support I received through the ERP program was invaluable. From coaching sessions and mock interviews to housing and employment assistance, Mission Possible provided me with every tool I needed," he shares.
 
While on the Clean Team, Ayush often offered to work the team’s busiest routes. Though initially he was concerned that it might be a challenge for him to work in the Downtown Eastside (DTES), often around people who use substances, he experienced a shift in perspective at MP, sharing, “It was a myth, honestly. People here just need love and compassion. With love everything can be changed.” Ayush made it his goal to apply for our Neighbour's team, where he could continue to give back to his community and gain valuable experience towards achieving his dream career of becoming a police officer. 

In April, Ayush was successful in his application and became an MP Community Navigator. He was familiar with many locations serviced by his team from his time volunteering in the DTES and on the Clean Team, so he was no stranger to the struggles faced by many in the area. While on the Neighbour's team, he quickly realized that there was hope all around and people willing to help. He felt stronger feelings of compassion towards his community members and decided to make it a new goal to get First Aid training so that he can help in as many ways as he can. He shares, "My six months with the Clean Team and Neighbours were nothing short of transformative."

Today, Ayush has finished his contracts with MP and recently graduated from his cyber security Master's program. He continues to volunteer at many local organizations and now works full-time as a Security Officer, where he uses his recent experience to keep his community safe. He is also interested in pursuing a job as a Community Support Worker to continue learning more about community engagement. In celebration of Ayush's success in the Employment Readiness Program and in his career outside of MP, he received a Momentum Award at our 16th Annual Mission Possible Gala.

His dedication, compassion, and positivity pushed him through many challenges, and to express his gratitude for the support he received, Ayush shared this sentiment with the staff and donors at MP:

Mission Possible is so much more than a non-profit. It’s a lifeline for individuals like me who are facing barriers such as unemployment, homelessness, poverty, addiction and mental health issues. This organization brings hope and a renewed sense of purpose to people, enabling them to rebuild their lives and work towards self-sufficiency. Mission Possible doesn’t just provide immediate help; it creates lasting change and dignity through meaningful work. I am honored to be one of the many lives Mission Possible has transformed.

To all the donors and well-wishers of Mission Possible—thank you. Every penny you contribute is helping to create hope, stability, and opportunities for individuals like me.

Ayush still visits MP to donate outreach supplies for our Neighbour's team as part of one of his new roles and is working on applying for his permanent residency. We can't wait to see where his ambitions take him!

Grimm's Story: Community, Food, and Creating Change

Grimm's Story: Community, Food, and Creating Change

Grimm was born in Alert Bay, a small island off the coast of Port McNeil, but he spent much of his life moving back and forth between Alberta and BC....

Read More
A Loved One's Perspective: Dale's Gala Reflection

A Loved One's Perspective: Dale's Gala Reflection

The Mission Possible Annual Gala brings together Mission Possible associates, their loved ones, caring community leaders, and dedicated supporters in...

Read More
A Warm Meal to a Life Changed: Gordon's Story

A Warm Meal to a Life Changed: Gordon's Story

Gordon was born in Lac La Ronge, located in Saskatchewan, and home to one of the largest First Nation Reserves in the province. In 1977, he was sent...

Read More