Paul Clarke is not only the dedicated Ride for Refuge Coordinator but also served with distinction as the Executive Director of Action Réfugiés Montréal from 2013 to 2021. Action Réfugiés Montréal has been a beacon of hope for refugee individuals in Montreal since 1994, offering compassionate, personalized support. He calls upon readers to make a difference—by donating, attending educational and social events to understand the plight of refugees better, or by getting involved in the Ride for Refuge event in Verdun on October 5. Engage directly and become part of a community that stands in solidarity with those seeking a safer, more dignified life.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
Action Réfugiés Montréal has been accompanying refugeed people in the Montreal area since 1994. I led the organization through a period of growth and increasing media presence. I have continued to be involved in fundraising after I retired.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Asylum seekers and sponsored refugees benefit by receiving compassionate support from the society to which they have moved. Action Refugies provides accompaniment in a personalized way.
When did you start/join it?
I became aware of the organization when I worked as a bank branch manager, and learned of issues related to refugeed people. I was hired as the director in 2013.
What made you want to get involved?
I wanted to bring my expertise developed through the business world to come to the aid of others. I wanted to help nightmares go away. I wanted to welcome the stranger.
What was the situation like when you started?
In 2013 refugee rights were under pressure in Canada. There had been restrictive legislation enacted. Many Canadian residents didn’t really know about the issue of refugees, their needs, their rights, and their contribution to Canadian society.
How has it changed since?
In 2015 most Canadians extended a helping hand to refugees from Syria. This enabled my organization to have a stronger voice in society, and we were able to increase public awareness, receive more funding, and accompany many more refugees.
What more needs to be done?
Much still needs to be done: asylum seekers have long wait times to have a hearing or interview. Refugees need quicker access to work permits and employment opportunities.
How can our readers help?
Readers can donate to our organization, or attend learning/ social events to become more aware of refugee rights
Do you have any events coming up?
On October 5 we are holding the Ride for Refuge in Verdun. People can participate, volunteer, or donate
Where can we follow you?
Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
I also love the West Island Mission and Montreal City Mission
