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www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver, Friday March 28, 2008 - 23 Marketing executive finds safe haven here By Doug MacPherson YMCA OF OAKVILLE VOLUNTEER M oving family and home brings many challenges, particularly if it is to a foreign been a great outlet in helping him and his family cope with the difficulties associated with a job search. Now an unofficial spokesperson for the YMCA of Oakville, Jose said, "I am so grateful to the YMCA and recommend all my friends to join." For information on the YMCA of Oakville, or to make a donation to the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign, call the Y at 905-8453417 or go to www.ymcaofoakville.com or www.ymcastrongkids.ca . The YMCA of Oakville is a charitable association open to all, dedicated to providing life-long opportunities for health enhancement and personal growth. -- Submitted by the YMCA of Oakville country. Dedicated to building a caring community, the YMCA reached out to Jose Tuccio and his family in helping them become established in Oakville. Forced to leave Peru because of threats to his life, Jose chose Canada because he was able to secure employment here prior to his arrival. Despite his strong attachment to Peru with its beauty and cuisine, Jose faced some major challenges if he continued to live there. As the managing director for the Peruvian operation of a global supplier of consumer cleaning and health products, Jose was the victim of a kidnapping. After the ordeal was over and Jose was safely returned to his family, he realized he had no choice but to leave Peru. The police advised him, "To leave it (the kidnapping) alone." For his safety, and that of his family, and in the interest of looking for better opportunities, he started "looking over the world for work," and was offered a position as a sales and marketing manager in North America for a company based in Mississauga. He moved here on Jan. 9, 2004. Soon after his arrival, the company went into a downsizing mode and Jose lost his job after just two and a half years. He adores Canada because of the security he and his family have found and the friendliness and acceptance of the Canadian people. As he said, "Everybody respecting everybody." Unfortunately, Jose faces the predicament of many immigrants, whose lack of Canadian experience makes finding work difficult. Recommended by friends in Oakville, Jose went out to check on the facilities at the Y and wanted to become involved immediately. He attributes his fast decision to join to the front reception staff who make all feel welcomed and remains impressed by them since he is always greeted when entering. As well he said that facilities are "high tech" and well maintained. Jose pointed out that the YMCA of Oakville helped him and his family in becoming Canadian and dealing with his lack of employment. Without the financial assistance program provided by the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign, Jose realizes that they would not have been able to enjoy the physical and social advantages of Y membership. As well, he said that the YMCA has