Emarieta’s journey with ActionDignity began by chance — but it quickly became something meaningful. Born in 1959 and a proud grandmother of four, Emarieta brought her children to Canada in 2004 for the grade 12 programs while she shuttled back and forth between her country to provide financial support. With over 35 years of experience as a human resources and administrative professional across industries such as oil and medical services, and a law degree to complement her work, she retired in 2018 with a strong desire to remain active and engaged in the community.
One day, while strolling with a friend near the Prospect Building, Emarieta’s path crossed with ActionDignity. “My friend knew I was looking for a job and suggested we stop by,” she recalls. From the moment she stepped into the office, she felt welcomed. After meeting the volunteer coordinator at ActionDignity and learning about ActionDignity’s mission, Emarieta knew she had found a place where she belonged. “I knew they were the kind of people I should work with,” she shared.
Emarieta officially joined ActionDignity as a volunteer in October 2025 and began volunteering in November. In her role, she supports event set-up, registration, form collection, note-taking, documentation, and food service. She also makes it a point to carry ActionDignity’s flyers with her, believing that face-to-face conversations are one of the most powerful ways to help people understand the organization’s work. “Talking to people in person matters,” she says. “It helps them truly connect with what ActionDignity does.”
What has stood out most to Emarieta is the organization’s commitment to equity and dignity. “The team accepts me without bias. They see me as a human being,” she explains. “When I ask questions, they are always kind and willing to share.” Two moments in particular left a lasting impression. During her first visit for volunteer training, despite the coordinator working remotely, the receptionist ensured she felt cared for — offering her tea, a comfortable space, and arranging her online training. Another meaningful experience came during a signature event, where staff from ActionDignity patiently and clearly explained every detail, making her feel trusted and valued as part of the team. Through volunteering with ActionDignity, Emarieta has gained a deeper perspective on inclusion and belonging. “I learned to look at people without bias,” she reflects. Having supported several major events, she strongly believes that no one should be left behind when they arrive in a new place. This learning has strengthened her work as a volunteer at other organizations as well, including the Alex Community Centre and the Hope Mission, where she supports vulnerable people in the communities.
For Emarieta, ActionDignity’s work is essential to community wellbeing. “If you don’t have the knowledge to settle down, it’s very hard,” she says. “ActionDignity is in the right direction — educating people, helping them understand their rights, and supporting vulnerable populations to have their voices heard.”
When asked what she would say to someone considering volunteering with ActionDignity, Emarieta doesn’t hesitate. “This is the right place to be if you believe in equity and social justice,” she says. Her advice to new volunteers is simple but powerful: stay focused, work as a team, help spread the word about ActionDignity’s work and feel confident sharing your ideas and suggestions.
Looking ahead, Emarieta hopes to continue growing with ActionDignity. She already sees herself as an ambassador, sharing her experiences and encouraging others to get involved. “I hope ActionDignity will be known not only in Calgary or Alberta, but nationally,” she says. “Helping people address their challenges and build better lives.”
Emarieta’s story is a reminder that sometimes, the most impactful journeys begin with a simple step through an open door — and are carried forward by dignity, care, and a shared commitment to equity and social justice.