Volunteer Spotlight – Capturing the Heart of Community with Len Chan
Let’s meet Len Chan, our dedicated volunteer whose story embodies resilience and a commitment to the community. From behind his camera lens, Len has spent years documenting Calgary’s vibrant cultural scene—showcasing the energy and warmth that immigrant communities bring to the city. His journey with ActionDignity has been about celebrating diversity, breaking down barriers, and building understanding. With each shot, article, and interaction, Len has shown the beauty in diversity and helped shift perceptions about Calgary’s immigrant communities.
For Len, this journey began long ago, inspired by his own family’s experiences. “My grandparents were affected by the 1923 Chinese Exclusion Act, and my family has lived through some harsh realities in Canada,” he recalls. Growing up, Len saw discrimination firsthand, which gave him a deep understanding of the challenges newcomers often face. “Seeing what my family went through, I knew I wanted to contribute and uplift others.”
Driven by this sense of purpose, Len started volunteering in Calgary’s cultural events over a decade ago, beginning with the Caribbean festival, Carifest. At that time, there was very little media coverage of cultural celebrations beyond major events like the Chinese Lunar New Year or the Dragon Boat Festival. Motivated to fill this gap, Len joined the St. Vincent & Grenadines Association and began covering events for The Jamaican Gleaner, a newspaper based in Toronto. Through his articles, he showcased positive stories from immigrant communities. “It felt important to show the real, beautiful side of these communities,” he explains.
In joining ActionDignity, Len found a place that aligned with his values. “ActionDignity’s mission to help immigrant communities navigate challenges resonated deeply with me,” he says. “I knew that being part of this organization meant I could help people feel less alone and more connected.” Over the past years, Len has stayed involved in the organization’s media efforts, photographing and writing about ActionDignity’s work and giving it greater visibility within the community.
(At ActionDignity’s 2023 Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. Len is the first one from the right)
One of Len’s most fulfilling experiences has been serving as part of ActionDignity’s casino volunteer team, where he’s helped raise essential funds for the organization. “The casino events are so much more than a fundraiser,” he shares. “They allow ActionDignity to continue its incredible work, from community workshops to cultural events. Knowing I can contribute to that in a hands-on way is deeply rewarding.”
Being part of the ActionDignity team, Len finds motivation in the small wins and successes he sees along the way. “I love seeing our events and workshops attract people from all backgrounds,” he reflects. “It feels like we’re breaking down walls with each gathering, showing people that they’re not alone and that their culture is valued.” His efforts have helped foster connections and understanding, making people feel seen and appreciated within their community.
(The photo taken by Len Chan at 2023 Leadership Recognition Awards event, featured in the Filipino Newspaper Mabuhay)
Looking to the future, Len hopes ActionDignity will continue to expand, empowering more communities and standing strong against racial injustices. “I want to see ActionDignity keep growing and engaging with community members, bringing us all closer together,” he says. “There’s so much power in an organization that listens, learns, and unites people.”
We’re honored to have Len Chan on our team. His story reminds us of all the power each of us has to uplift, celebrate, and support our communities. Thank you, Len, for sharing your journey. Your dedication shows that when we come together, we can create a more inclusive, understanding world.
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