Immigration Partnership Highlights | |
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Last week, Immigration Partnership team members, together with partners from YMCA Immigrant Services, participated in the national Pathways to Prosperity (P2P) conference, an event dedicated to shaping evidence-based settlement and integration policies across Canada. It began with a keynote address by the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and included more than 60 workshops and panel discussions over the course of four days, with more than 1,000 attendees.
We are proud of the role played by two team members in sharing Waterloo Region experience. Dan Vandebelt, together with other Local Immigration Partnership (LIP) representatives, shared insights on the potential for mutual learning among LIPs. This included initiatives such as the Immigrant Survey and other surveys, providing perspective on the importance of research for community capacity building, and in sharing and leveraging results. Abiha Syed facilitated a meaningful workshop entitled "Rural LIPs: Building Capacity from Within", providing her expertise during the panel discussions from collaborations across Waterloo Region’s rural and urban communities and organizations.
We had a great opportunity to network and engage in meaningful conversations about our past and ongoing work., and are excited to apply the knowledge gained to continue building community through immigration.
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We are excited to invite you to the 7th Annual Waterloo Region Migration Film Festival #WRMigFest. This free Festival includes a curated series of films to reflect on global migration, a topic that continues to attract the attention of media, governments and communities around the world.
The 2023 Festival will kick off on Friday, December 1, 2023, with in-person and virtual options. Many of this year’s films address themes of conflict, forced migration and other difficult topics. Resources are being arranged to support the wellbeing of organizers and participants.
For more information on the films, directors, hosts and screening dates, visit www.immigrationwaterlooregion.ca/wrmigfest, or follow us on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn and share with your family, friends and networks. Stay tuned!
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Meet this Year's Newcomer Landlord Award Recipients
The 2023 Newcomer Landlord Award was proudly presented on November 22 as part of the Region of Waterloo’s National Housing Day Celebration, acknowledging the outstanding contributions of four recipients. Nominated by the community and selected by a committee comprising past awardees and community partners, the winners were honoured for their impactful role in assisting the newest members of our regional communities in finding a home.
The honorees for 2023 include Armando Camarata, Bill Hall, Zain Valani and Nancy Morales. You can explore their inspiring stories of generosity here: 2023 Newcomer Landlord Award Stories
Congratulations to all the honorees! Thank you for the crucial work you undertake in fostering a welcoming community where everyone can truly feel at HOME!
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Please Reply! The 2023 Immigration Partnership Partner Survey is CLOSING TODAY!
We want to hear from you! This Annual Partner Survey is your opportunity to share feedback and insights on the impact of the Immigration Partnership’s collective work, progress implementing our Community Action Plan, your engagement and emerging issues.
As a region-wide partnership of community service organizations, governments, employers, funders, ethno-cultural groups and individuals we have been working together since 2009 to ensure immigrants are able to reach their full potential and contribute to creating and sustaining a thriving, prosperous community for everyone. In 2024, we will work together to develop our 2025-2030 strategic plan and input from this survey will help to inform that process.
Share your feedback: IP Annual Partner Survey 2023
Please complete the survey by November 27, 2023.
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Introducing Our New Branding to Partners, Organizations and the Community
We are excited to present you with some updates about the Waterloo Region Immigration Partnership. In our constant drive to improve and evolve, we have recently undertaken a subtle but significant transformation of our brand. We believe that a fresh, contemporary look reflects the innovation and forward-thinking spirit that defines the Waterloo Region Immigration Partnership.
Partners and organizations collaborating hand-in-hand with us, we're excited to offer you access to our refreshed branding. Please reach out to Diana Carrillo at [email protected]
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In 2022, the Immigration Partnership Council invested more than $1 million in initiatives supporting Ukrainians fleeing war, Afghan and other refugees and other immigrants in Waterloo Region. Funding was made available through generous donations to the Immigration Partnership Fund for Immigrant and Refugee Initiatives and a Region of Waterloo Equity Fund investment.
The investments created space for Ukrainians fleeing war to receive support, create social connections, reduce isolation, learn about their heritage in Canada and more, and provided internship opportunities for East African youth to hone their leadership skills.
Learn about the impact of these investments here: IP-Funds-Grant-Outcomes-2023-09.pdf
DONATE - Your donation will help build community through immigration by positively impacting the lives of newcomer families in Waterloo Region: wrcf.ca/immigrationpartnership
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Immigration Partnership Resources | |
Community Partner Highlights
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On November 1, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Announced the 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan
Following the trajectory of the 2023-2025 Plan, Canada aims to welcome 485,000 new permanent residents in 2024, 500,000 in 2025 and plateau at 500,000 in 2026. According to IRCC, “This plan prioritizes economic growth, and supports family reunification, while responding to humanitarian crises and recognizing the rapid growth in immigration in recent years.”
LEVELS PLAN: Notice – Supplementary Information for the 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan - Canada.ca
This week IRCC also launched it’s report "An Immigration System for Canada's Future". The report outlines what was heard from more than 17,500 voices during the open consultation earlier this year, and sets out the future directions for the development of immigration and settlement policy and infrastructure in Canada. Access it here: An Immigration System for Canada’s Future: Strengthening our communities - Canada.ca
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Region of Waterloo Strategic Plan 2023-2027
The 2023-2027 Strategic Plan is designed to guide the Region of Waterloo as it grows in the coming decades. The new Strategic Plan focuses on “Growing with Care,” supporting a long-term vision of a compassionate community that cares for all people, stewards the land for future generations and gives everyone the opportunity to live a good life. Strategic Plan 2023-2027 - Region of Waterloo
Region of Waterloo 2024 Plan and Budget
The Region of Waterloo is developing its 2024 Plan and Budget. Your input matters. You can:
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Delegate at Region of Waterloo Council public input sessions: November 29, 6PM. Register to speak (in-person or on Zoom) or submit a presentation.
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November 28, WMRC Community Pavilion, 101 Father David Bauer Drive, Waterloo - Free
Help shape the City of Waterloo's first Reconciliation, Accessibility and Equity Strategy
The City of Waterloo’s Reconciliation, Equity, Accessibility, Diversity, and Inclusion (READI) team is working with an external consultant to develop the City’s new Reconciliation, Accessibility and Equity Strategy and Implementation Plan. Your input are invaluable as they work together to address many of the challenges, barriers, and gaps in services that the team has identified through their work.
Register Now - Nov 28
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Refugee Integration Updates | |
Visit www.immigrationwaterlooregion.ca/ukraine to learn how residents of Waterloo Region can support the Ukrainians coming to Canada. In addition, visitors will find helpful information and tools shared by the federal government specifically for Ukrainian individuals and families such as service access instructions, welcome to Canada checklist, SIN for Newcomers, etc. | |
Initiatives & Funding Opportunities | | |
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Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) Grant Program
Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) is a grant program (2023-24) that will provide access to business development training, culturally responsive and tailored business coaching, networking opportunities, and a one-time grant of $10,000 to support Indigenous, Black and other racialized entrepreneurs.
For more information visit: RAISE 2.0 (gov.on.ca)
Applications must be submitted by December 8, 2023
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Applications being accepted for Kitchener’s 2024 community grant funding
These grants are offered to organizations that provide services in the areas of arts and culture, special events, community support and development and minor sports or recreation.
For more information visit: Community grants - City of Kitchener
Applications must be submitted by December 11, 2023
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Volunteer Service Awards 2023 -Deadline Extended to December 15
This award recognizes volunteers for providing committed and dedicated service to an organization.
Learn more about eligibility here: Honours and awards: volunteering | ontario.ca
Submit your nomination by December 15, 2023: Ontario's Honours and Awards
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Canada Cultural Spaces Fund
The Canada Cultural Spaces Fund (CCSF) supports the improvement of physical conditions for arts, heritage culture and creative innovation. The Fund supports renovation and construction projects, the acquisition of specialized equipment and feasibility studies related to cultural spaces.
The CCSF receives applications on an ongoing basis. For more information visit: Canada Cultural Spaces Fund - Canada.ca
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Regional Development Program Opening Soon!
The Regional Development Program provides support for projects and investments to businesses, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations for economic development in Ontario, by region.
Application opening: December 7, 2023 - January 11, 2024
Deadline: January 25, 2024
Learn more: Southwestern Ontario Development Fund
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The System Innovations Grants Application Period Opens Soon!
Collaboratives interested in applying for a System Innovations grant need to be focused on identifying opportunities for improvement within a specific system and creating thoughtful strategies for change. Projects need to help create improved experiences for the following young groups: Youth between the ages of 12-25 with diverse identities and lived experiences who are facing systemic barriers, youth between the ages of 12-29 living with special needs and/or disabilities, or youth between the ages of 12-29 living with mental health needs and/or addictions.
Application period opens: December 4, 2023
Deadline: March 6, 2024
Learn more: System Innovations Grant | Ontario Trillium Foundation
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What Does it Mean to Be a Host
WR Grassroots Response is always looking for people in Waterloo Region willing to open up their homes to Ukrainian fleeing the war. The number of Ukrainians seeking shelter is not slowing and there are new requests for help every day.
If you are interested in becoming a host, there are several ways you can help.
Learn more about how you can become a host and support the Ukrainian community:
Provide Housing | WRGR (wrgrassrootsresponse.ca)
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Front-end Processes for
Refugee Claimants
Front-end processes for refugee claimants are rapidly changing as applications are digitized and government seeks new efficiencies. This infographic has been designed to assist service providers in
keeping up with these changes.
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Un Guide Pour Tous
GuideMoi est une application mobile gratuite dédiée spécifiquement aux immigrants francophones qui souhaitent ou viennent de s’installer en Ontario. Cette application est un guide intuitif qui accompagne l’immigrant et l’oriente tout au long de son parcours d’intégration.
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Find a Mentor to Help you Become a Licensed Health Professional in Canada
Mentor Me aims to assist internationally educated health professionals (IEHPs) in obtaining licensure in Canada. It provides a simple solution by connecting unlicensed IEHPs with licensed IEHPs for personalized peer mentorship.
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La Communauté en Français | |
Jeudi 30 Novembre, 1 PM - Webinar - Gratuit
Comprendre les Habitudes des Nouveaux Arrivants en Médias et Technologies
Joignez-vous à Réfugié 613 et à L’OTM Nouveaux arrivants pour explorer les habitudes des nouveaux arrivants en matière de médias et de tech.
Register Now
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8 Janvier - 29 Mars 2024 - Gratuit
Favoriser l'intégration canadienne des professionnels de la santé formés à l'étranger (PSFE): De l'apprentissage à l'action
L'Institut de leadership transformatif de l'Université Saint-Paul, en partenariat avec N4, a élaboré ce programme pour aider les professionnels de la santé formés à l'étranger (PSFE) à acquérir les compétences non cliniques nécessaires pour réussir dans les emplois du secteur de la santé au Canada.
Learn more: 2024 winter - N4 - National Newcomer Navigation Network
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Engage Region of Waterloo: Waterloo Economic Development Strategy - Have Your Say!
Round two of engagement for the Waterloo Region Economic Development Strategy (WREDS) and Talent Plan is now open!
Whether you are employed, unemployed, or looking for work have your voice heard!
Check out the Workforce Survey, which captures the strengths, challenges, and opportunities in Waterloo Region's talent and job search ecosystem. Please fill out the survey: Workforce Survey
Deadline: November 30, 2023
Are you an employer in the Region?
Check out the Business Survey, meant for business owners, managers, and those with operational knowledge of their businesses. Have your voice heard by sharing your needs, strengths, and challenges with respect to attracting and retaining talent here: Business Survey
Deadline: November 30
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Temporary Workers, Temporary Growth? How a Slowdown in the Recent Migration Surge Could Exacerbate Canada’s Downturn
By Marc Desormeaux, Principal Economist
See the full publication in PDF: canada-migration-oct-18-2023
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November 29, 2 - 3:30 PM - Webinar - Free
Are Soft Skills the New Hard Skills?
This is an online training for frontline staff working with jobseekers and learners. Learn the key soft skills identified by employers in high-demand industries like Construction, Manufacturing, and Retail, and how addressing these gaps can benefit businesses.
Register Now
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December 5, 12 PM - Webinar - Free
Knowledge & Action Speaking Series: Women's Homelessness in Cambridge - Service Providers Insights
During this event will be discussed the intersects of gender-based violence and women's homelessness in Cambridge and what can be done to support women in the community. This event builds on knowledge from the recently published report by YWCA Cambridge on Women's Homelessness in Cambridge.
Register Now
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December 6, 12 PM - Berlin Room, Hampton Inn, 55 Benjamin Road, Waterloo - Free
Unlocking the Power of A Diverse Workforce : Strategies for Building Inclusive Teams
Join WIN's upcoming employer workshop where guest speaker, Ayo Owodunni, a seasoned management consultant, will provide actionable strategies for building inclusive teams.
Register Now
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December 13, 1 PM - Webinar - Free - Employer Series
The Internationally Trained Physician (ITP) Licensure Journey: What's New and the Importance of Advocacy
This webinar will review the free resources available and advocacy of Internationally Trained Physicians of Ontario (ITPO) and why it is important to continue to advocate for system-level changes. There will be a general overview of the licensure pathway.
Register Now
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November 30, 1 PM - Webinar - Free
Understanding Newcomer Media and Technology Habits in 2023
Join Refugee 613 & MTM Newcomers to learn more about the media consumption patterns and communications habits of newcomers to Canada.
Register Now
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November 30, 6 PM - Idea Exchange - Old Post Office, 12 Water Street South, Cambridge - Free
Conversations for Community Care: Black Men's Mental Health
Join Porchlight and Rhythm and Blues Cambridge for an information session and conversation on the topic of Black Men's Mental Health.
Register Now
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December 1, 7 PM - Victoria Park Pavilion, 80 Schneider Avenue, Kitchener
Rising from Colonialism
An evening of solidarity celebrating culture and resilience of Indigenous communities in Palestine and Turtle Island, on the occasion of UN International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. Join an evening of drumming circle, poetry, storytelling and discussion panel of community elders.
Register Now
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December 3, 1:30 PM - KPL, 85 Queen Street North, Kitchener - Free
Art from the Art Processing "X-press" Yourself Event
Join Rhythm and Blues Cambridge to explore the powerful and healing benefits of self expression through art and movement therapies in a safe and welcoming space!
Register Now
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December 7 - 10, 10 AM - Kitchener City Hall and Carl Zehr Square, Kitchener - Free
Christkindl Market
More than 80 vendors will be on hand, offering arts and crafts, clothing, jewelry, Christmas and home decor and bath and body products, along with a wide range of food and drinks to gift, take home or enjoy at the market.
Learn More
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February 21, 1 PM - Webinar - Free
Youth Settlement in Action: How Sectors Can Build their Capacity to Support Newcomer Youth
In 2021, the Centre For Newcomers presented a five-year project called WRAPCAP, to the Pathways to Prosperity audience. The initial design of the project was to build organizational capacity within sectors through implementation of the delivery model.
Register Now
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Nov. 27, 2 - 4 PM -Kitchener Public Library, 85 Queen St. North, Kitchener - Free
Basic Computer Skills for Newcomers
The Kitchener Public Library is offering this 2-session workshop for newcomer to learn about how to use computers. This sessions will focus on beginner computers skills. The workshop is geared towards newcomers/immigrants. Registration is required.
Register Now
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Mondays, until Nov. 27, 6 - 7:30 PM - 800 King St. W (1st floor), Kitchener - Free
Family Language and Learning
The YMCA of Three Rivers, in partnership with United for Literacy, offers a tutoring program that provides homework support, tutoring, and language development to newcomer children and teenagers.
Register Now
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Nov. 27, 2 - 3 PM - Webinar - Free
Get Hired! Interview Skills Workshop
This program is part of the "Get Hired" series hosted by YMCA of Three Rivers Employment Services. Learn how to make a good impression on your next job interview, and explore how to change your interview style for a successful interview.
Register Now
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Tuesdays, until Nov. 28, 3:30 - 5 PM - Victoria Hills Community Centre, 10 Chopin Drive, Kitchener - Free
International Youth Group
Camino Wellbeing created an in-person group for youth to connect through games, art, play, and conversation. Explore a wide range of issues that are important to you and explore new ways to connect with others! Open to newcomer youth ages 10-13 who have refugee or protected person status.
Register Now
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Wednesdays, until Nov. 29, 5:30 - 7 PM - 800 King St. W (1st floor), Kitchener - Free
Citizenship Support Group
YMCA of Three Rivers is offering this sessions to help Permanent Residents prepare to take the Canadian Citizenship Exam, studying key concepts of Canadian history, identity, government, and people.
Register Now
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Wednesdays, until Nov. 29, 4:15 - 5:15 PM - Forest Heights Community Centre, 1700 Queen's Blvd, Kitchener - Free
Fabulous Kids
Join Camino in he Fabulous Kids Program! Play games, read books, create together, and learn ways to care for yourself. Open to newcomer youth, 6-9 years old who hold refugee or protected person status.
Register Now
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Thursdays, until Nov. 30, 1 - 3 PM - 480 Charles St. E, Kitchener - Free
Growing Stronger Adult Trauma Group
A safe space for individuals with similar experiences to learn about how trauma affects the body and brain and learn strategies to help manage current symptoms of trauma and improve mental health and wellbeing.
Register Now
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Thursdays, until Nov. 30, 3:30 - 5 PM - 480 Charles St. E, Kitchener - Free
Standing Strong Newcomer Girls Group
Discuss issues that impact young women’s daily lives; promote self-esteem, self-love and self-care; develop life skills to thrive; and learn to see and create opportunities for getting involved in your community. Open to high school students who identify a female and have refugee or protected person status.
Register Now
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Thursdays, until Nov. 30, 6 - 7:30 PM - 480 Charles St. E (room 208), Kitchener - Free
Tea and Talk
Join this free women’s group that supports and promotes holistic wellbeing and belonging in the community. Learn about resources and activities in the community, and connect with other women in a relaxing environment.
Register Now
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Dec. 4, 1 - 2:30 PM - Online - Free
Newcomers Employment Workshop: Canadian Communication Skills
Learn about what it means to be polite in Canadian English: making and receiving polite requests, levels of formality, and written vs verbal communication.
Register Now
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Wednesdays, until Dec. 6, 10 - 11 AM, Kitchener Public Library, 85 Queen St. North, Kitchener - Free
Practice your English
Practice your English in a small group setting with a trained volunteer from home! All newcomers welcome. This virtual program requires registration each session, email, and access to a tech device.
Register Now
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Thursdays, until Dec. 7, 10 - 11:30 AM, Kitchener Public Library, 85 Queen St. North, Kitchener - Free
Women's English Conversation Circle
A space to practice speaking English in a relaxed and comfortable environment with other women. Meet new friends, share stories, and learn about life in Canada. All newcomer women are welcome.
Register Now
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Dec. 11, 1 - 2:30 PM - Online - Free
Newcomers Employment Workshop: Preparing for Job Interviews
Learn how to prepare and practice for a Canadian job interview. Practice common questions and get feedback.
Register Now
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Tuesdays, until Dec. 12, 10 - 11:30 PM - Online - Free
Online Citizenship Support Group
YMCA of Three Rivers is offering this sessions to help Permanent Residents prepare to take the Canadian Citizenship Exam, studying key concepts of Canadian history, identity, government, and people.
Register Now
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Until Dec. 14, Cambridge, Kitchener & Waterloo - Free
English Conversation Circles
YMCA of Three Rivers is offering English Conversation Circles to help newcomers improve their English, make new friendships, and build confidence. You can attend as many as you would like!
Register Now
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Mondays, until Dec. 25, 6 - 9 PM, 65 Hanson Avenue, Kitchener
Tutoring Program
This program, offered by the Muslim Social Services of KW, is designed to provide academic support for students of all ages. The tutors offer assistance with homework, exam preparation, and skill development in various subjects.
Register Now
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Wednesdays, until Dec. 27, 5 - 6 PM, Country Hills Community Centre, 100 Rittenhouse Road, Kitchener
Community Safety and Wellbeing Program with Police
Muslim Social Services of KW in collaboration with the Waterloo Region Police Service, are offering this program that focuses on educating individuals and families about important safety measures, crisis management, and community resources.
Register Now
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January 8 - March 29, 2024 - Free
Fostering Canadian Integration for IEHPs: From Learning to Action
Saint Paul University’s Institute for Transformative Leadership, in partnership with N4, has developed this program to help Internationally Educated Healthcare Professionals (IEHPs) gain the non-clinical skills necessary to be successful in healthcare jobs in Canada.
Pre-Registration is Open Now!
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Tuesdays, until June 25, 2024, 5:30 - 7:30 PM - 1700 Queen's Boulevard, Kitchener
Healing through Art for Kids and Parents
Muslim Social Services of KW is offering this program which provides a safe and supportive environment for children and parents to engage in therapeutic art activities that can help in emotional healing and bonding.
Register Now
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Canada increases support for asylum claimants from Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada Newsroom, Nov. 24, 2023
International education in Canada requires direction, funding and limits from The Record, Nov. 23, 2023
A digital bank that wants to help newcomers from The Record, Nov. 22, 2023
Region announces 2,350 affordable houses are in development or occupied from CityNews, Nov. 22, 2023
Smart Waterloo Region Innovation Lab receives $100,000 to make youth ideas happen from Region of Waterloo News and Public Notices, Nov. 21, 2023
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Feel free to send us any suggestions or information about relevant events and resources to include in the Immigration Waterloo Region Weekly by emailing:
Diana Carrillo Joya ([email protected])
We encourage you to add your own events to share with our readers at Calendar - Immigration Waterloo Region
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