Moments of Joy: A thank you from the Rengifo family

At ISANS, client feedback affirms that our dedication and effort are recognized, reinforcing the meaningful impact of our work and inspiring us to continually improve. Such feedback not only boosts morale but also fosters a strong sense of belonging and connection, emphasizing that we’re part of a shared journey rather than merely providing a service. We are especially proud of our community connections team members Lani Poce and Melissa King, whose dedication was heartfeltly acknowledged by Darwin Rengifo and his family, highlighting the positive difference they make in their lives.

“I write to you from the deepest part of my heart. I on behalf of my wife Wendy, and our sons Cleber and Dylan want to thank Lani and Melissa— not only for making this camping experience possible for my family, but for what your actions truly meant to us. Before this weekend, I was carrying a heavy weight — the weight of disappointment, of distrust, of struggling to adapt in a new land, far from what was once familiar,” Darwin Rengifo shares heartfelt gratitude.

“But something changed during this camp. I witnessed sincere kindness, a human warmth I didn’t expect. The people who welcomed us — Canadian adults of various ages, full of experience, patience, and an admirable willingness to help — treated us with so much dignity and respect. That deeply moved me.

And something even more beautiful happened: even though we didn’t speak the same language, we understood each other. The support was felt in every gesture, every look, every act of help freely given. We communicated from the heart. And for us, that means so, so much. It showed us that you don’t need to speak perfectly to feel included, to share, to live something meaningful.

Receiving the “Learn to Camp” certificate with my wife and children, being called to the front, touched something in us. My wife cried — not out of sadness, but from the emotion of being seen, accepted, and included. I almost cried too. It was more than a certificate. It was a moment of healing.

This weekend reminded me that there are still wonderful people in the world. That connection, that peace, that pure joy of being part of something without judgment — it opened something in me that had long been closed. And that was thanks to you.

Thank you for believing in us, for creating this opportunity, and for reminding us that there are still good people — people who care, who listen, who create safe spaces where families like mine can breathe again.

From the bottom of my heart, and on behalf of my entire family Thank you. You’ve planted something good in our lives. We will never forget it.”

Each year, ISANS partners with the Nova Scotia Parks Learn to Camp Program, and this year, camping took place at Graves Island Provincial Park on July 19-20. The camp brought together 30 participants of various ages and backgrounds, offering all necessary equipment and expert guidance to create an inclusive outdoor experience that promotes new engagement with nature and camping skills.