Joey’s remarkable journey with Frog Hollow is one of creativity, community, and giving back. As an active participant in the seniors’ programs, she has found a welcoming space where her passion for knitting has flourished into something much greater than simply a hobby. Through the Seniors’ Knitting Group, she has not only rekindled her love for crafts but also become a key figure in Frog Hollow’s upcoming Adopt a Frog Fundraiser. Her story illustrates how curiosity and passion can bring great joy to the community.

‍

Born and raised in Guangzhou, China, Joey immigrated to Canada in 1983 to join her husband in pursuit of new beginnings. Adjusting to a new country came with challenges, but she embraced the opportunity to build a fresh start. It wasn’t until 2016 that Joey discovered Frog Hollow through a friend, who encouraged her to join various seniors’ programs offered, such as the Seniors’ Dance Group and Art in the Park. As she became more involved, she developed an increasing sense of belonging at Frog Hollow, forming lifelong friendships with others who share similar interests.

‍

Joey has played a crucial role in Frog Hollow’s upcoming Adopt a Frog Fundraiser, set to take place from May 4-10 to coincide with 2025 Neighbourhood House Week. The fundraiser will offer the first 100 donors who contribute $50 or more an adorable, knitted froggie keychain, lovingly crafted by the Seniors’ Knitting Group! As the lead of this knitting project, Joey was the first to create the original frog plushie and keychain designs—an instant favourite in the community! Her designs have since inspired the rest of the group, who have been crafting their own froggie keychains through her guidance and direction.

‍

Joey maintains a resourceful outlook on knitting, as she views it as an opportunity to turn unused materials into something valuable. Initially, she focused on garments like scarves and hats, but over time, her curiosity led her to experiment with new items, namely, plushies and keychains. She pays close attention to the textures and qualities of different yarns, and rather than letting lower-quality ones go to waste, she finds creative ways to repurpose them, such as turning unused red yarn into watermelon keychains. Impressed by her many creations, Frog Hollow staff eventually suggested knitting frogs, resulting in her now iconic frog keychains featured in the fundraiser!

‍

One of Joey’s favourite memories of volunteering with Frog Hollow was tabling at the Harvest Festival. What she expected to be an ordinary day of displaying and selling her knitted creations took a delightful turn when a little girl spotted one of the adorable, frog plushies on display. Bursting with excitement, she dragged her mom over, exclaiming that she needed one of those cute frogs. After some convincing, her mom finally agreed, and the little girl’s face lit up with the widest smile. For Joey, seeing the pure joy her work brought others in that moment, reaffirmed the meaning and value behind her craft.

‍

“Knitting is more than just a pastime—it’s a way to connect with others and support the community,” Joey shares, looking back on her knitting and volunteer journey. She firmly believes that genuine curiosity and passion drives commitment, which is evident in the care and dedication she puts into her creations. Joey is incredibly appreciative of Frog Hollow for the friendships and connections she has built, the problem-solving moments (like working with others to figure out how to knit the frog’s eyes), and the shared joy of giving back.

‍

What Joey values most about Frog Hollow is the warmth and kindness of all the staff and fellow participants. Through the seniors’ programs, she has found an inclusive space where people from all walks of life can come together to create something meaningful. Her contributions to Adopt a Frog and the Seniors’ Knitting Group have enabled her to continuously support her community and make a lasting impact—all while spreading joy to neighbours and community members.