The Community Connections Program is designed to help you settle into the community through different activities and supports.
Community Connections has programming for government-assisted refugees and for all newcomers.
For All Newcomers
Community Connections Matches
We match you with a volunteer from the community. You meet once a week for two hours for at least 6 months. We try to match you with a volunteer who has similar interests and is the same gender.
We provide Community Connections Matches to:
- offer social support and introduce you to your new community
- help you practice skills for daily family activities
- practice English conversation
- share a home-cooked meal
- introduce you to people and places in the community (historical sites, community centers, parks, other places of interest to you)
- exchange knowledge about their traditions and customs with you
- exchanging ideas, information and resources
The first meeting takes place at ISANS or in your home with the program coordinator. Weekly meetings take place at a time and place that is convenient for you and your volunteer match.
For Government-Assisted Refugee Families
Volunteering in Canada
We connect GARs who are beginner to intermediate EAL learners with volunteer opportunities in the community. You will:
- gain Canadian workplace experience and references
- meet new people
- learn new skills
- give back to your new community
Recreation Programs for Families
We help GAR families access funding for recreation and social programs for children and youth, and connect individuals to community activities, like:
- summer camp opportunities for children and youth
- fireside knitting group (Keshen Goodman Library)
- St. Andrew's Sewing Circle
- recreation programs for children and youth (ex. swimming, gymnastics, girl guides, etc)
- Bike Safety and bike donation program
- cooking and conversation groups
- group field trips to community events