Mark* has a passion to learn. He received his education in business from a college, but he taught himself to use computers and navigate the internet. When he comes to the Dr. Peter Centre as a participant in the day health program, he makes use of a lot of the services offered, including working out in the gym three times a week. But the first stop he makes is at the computer station in the living room on the second floor. He doesn’t have a computer at home and so the access here is his connection to the world, in more ways than one.

“When I was without a phone, it was the only way for me to communicate with my doctor and social worker,” says Mark. “It also helps me keep in touch with my family in Africa. I was even able to see photos of my nephew's wedding in Southern Africa.”

Now that he has a phone, Mark has grander ambitions for his computer time. He wants to build a web page. Enter Emilie. As a volunteer at the Dr. Peter Centre, she spends her shift offering computer skills to centre participants like Mark.

“I am happy to share my knowledge about computers. I find it really helps break down barriers for people, either because they are learning new skills or because they are able to communicate in different ways,” states Emilie. “It’s interesting though, while I am here to teach, I always learn something. There is a lot of support and camaraderie between the clients here, that’s something we can all take a lesson from.”