Canada Connect Volunteer

Canada Connects is a volunteer program aimed at helping refugees arriving to Calgary integrate into the community by matching them with well-established local volunteers. The program supports government-assisted refugees in adjusting to life in Calgary by fostering connections with the client for a period of 4-12 months.

Volunteer activities:

• Explore the community together, introducing newcomers to local resources, organizations, and share experiences about living in Calgary
• Engage in cultural exchange, discussing various aspects of life in Canada and the newcomer's home country
• Provide information on Canadian customs, culture, and society
• Spend leisure time with newcomers, engaging in activities and participate in and encourage attendance at fun, free events throughout the city or those organized by CCIS and partners
• Provide moral support and encouragement
• Facilitate informal English language practice
• Requirements:
• Meet with matched newcomer(s) for at least 4-8 hours per month for at least 4-12 months
• Each match is supervised by an assigned Canada Connects Program Facilitator who will support both the volunteer and the newcomer, helping to establish a successful relationship and provide guidance along the way
• The program requires a minimum commitment of 4 hours per month for 4 months to 1 year
• The initial meeting takes place at the client's home under the supervisions of the Program Facilitator. Subsequent meetings can take place in the client’s home or any agreed upon location in the community
• Qualification:
• Must be over the age of 18
• Must have lived in Calgary for 3-5 years
• A desire to get involved and make a positive impact
• Long term Canadian or settled immigrants
• Flexibility, cultural sensitivity, and excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Successful completion of a police check is required (paid by CCIS)
• Creative problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to challenges
• Benefits of the program:
• Gain experience with other cultures and countries while developing cultural sensitivity, flexibility, adaptability, and enhancing cross-cultural communication skills
• Attend a variety of training sessions and learn new skills.
• Network with other volunteers
• Gain satisfaction from supporting those in need within the community.
• Volunteers will gain work experience in a Canadian workplace
• Reference may be provided upon completion of minimum requirements, at the discretion of the assigned Program Facilitator

If you think this opportunity may be great for you, please contact a program manager - Beata Lutaba at blutaba@ccisab.ca/Direct Line: 403.290.5752