Immigration Partnership Highlights | |
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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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2023 Newcomer Landlord Award Recipients to be Announced This Week
On November 22, the Waterloo Region Immigration Partnership will announce the 2023 Newcomer Landlord Award Recipients at the Region of Waterloo’s 22th National Housing Day Celebration. The award recognizes local landlords who have made important contributions to the settling and community integration of newcomers and refugees in Waterloo Region.
Join us in celebrating individuals or groups in our community who have gone above and beyond to support community members to achieve their housing and life goals. This event will be held both in-person and virtually.
Register here
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Please Reply! The 2023 Immigration Partnership Partner Survey is Live
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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City of Waterloo offers interpretation services in over 240 languages
On-demand interpretation services are now available throughout City of Waterloo facilities, in over 240 languages including American Sign Language (ASL), Quebec Sign Language, Cree and Ojibwe. Residents will have the option to use their preferred language when engaging with the city. The live interpreter goes beyond a standard text translation tool by offering essential cultural and sociological context in a friendly and approachable way.
The tool is currently available at service points in Waterloo City Hall, Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex, RIM Park, Albert McCormick Community Centre, Waterloo Service Centre, Moses Springer Community Centre and the Waterloo Museum.
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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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City of Waterloo introduces new resource for reporting and responding to hate incidents
The City of Waterloo has developed a new resource to support residents in navigating and reporting local incidents of hate and discrimination. The resource guide offers clear instructions on where to file a report and outlines what to expect throughout the process. Reporting can help prevent future incidents and provides the city and partners with a deeper understanding of each situation, which then helps to develop more informed, supportive and protective measures for the community.
Learn more: Responding to Hate Motivated Incidents guide
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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 21 & 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 21 or Register Now - Nov 28
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November 22 - Webinar - Free
Towards a Decolonial and Anti-Racist Approach to Volunteer Recruitment
Over the last few years, volunteering rates have been declining in Ontario and organizations are reporting sustained shortages of volunteer labour. ONN's 2023 sector data confirmed that that the volunteer crisis is not over yet, though it is slowing.
This upcoming webinar will ask to consider how organizations can promote Decent Volunteering and foster decolonial approaches to volunteer recruitment and screening.
Register Now!
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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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Submission of Proposals Closing This Week!
This 26th Annual Metropolis Canada Conference will focus on war, violence, human rights abuses, climate change, and how unstable economies continue to displace large numbers of people worldwide. Despite our many challenges, Canada remains one of the planet’s most desirable destinations for migrants seeking a new home. The country is increasing immigration targets to meet domestic economic and demographic objectives as well as respond to humanitarian crises. View the suggested themes and topics for proposals for sessions in the Call for Papers.
Submit your proposal by: November 22, 2023
Submit your proposal here: Metropolis Conference
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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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November
In Response - OCASI's Executive Director Message
Read the article here: In Response | OCASI
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La Communauté en Français | | |
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La soumission des propositions se termine bientôt!
La 26e conférence annuelle de Metropolis Canada portera sur la guerre, la violence, les violations des droits de l'homme, le changement climatique et la façon dont les économies instables continuent de déplacer un grand nombre de personnes dans le monde entier. Malgré ses nombreux défis, le Canada reste l'une des destinations les plus prisées par les migrants à la recherche d'une nouvelle patrie. Le pays augmente ses objectifs en matière d'immigration pour répondre à ses objectifs économiques et démographiques, ainsi que pour faire face aux crises humanitaires. Consultez les thèmes suggérés et les sujets pour les propositions de sessions dans l'appel à contributions.
Soumettez votre proposition au plus tard le 22 Novembre, 2023
Soumettez votre proposition ici: Metropolis Conference
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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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Les résultats préliminaires de l’étude sur les expériences des francophones immigrants de l’Ontario
Du 4 au 5 octobre dernier, dans le cadre du forum virtuel de la Stratégie d’attraction et de rétention des immigrants de l’Est de l’Ontario, les chercheures du Collège des chaires de recherche sur le monde francophone de l'Université d'Ottawa ont présenté les résultats préliminaires du sondage ayant pour but de documenter les expériences et les pratiques linguistiques à travers la provincede l’Ontario.
Vous pouvez lire cet article ici: La recherche pour combler les besoins de services en français en Ontario
Il est encore temps de participer au sondage
Si vous êtes francophone, résidant en Ontario et vous n’avez pas encore répondu à ce sondage, il vous reste encore quelques temps pour y répondre.
Cliquez ici pour répondre au sondage: Expériences, pratiques et représentations sociolinguistiques et géographiques des francophones de l’Ontario Survey
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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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November 24, 11 AM - 12:30 PM - 50 Sportsworld Crossing Drive, Kitchener - Free
Employer Discussion: Regarding Retention, Discovering Strategies and Uncovering Challenges
Kinbridge Community Association is facilitating a free networking event for local employers. This will be a constructive conversation to identify challenges and discover practical solutions.
Register Now
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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 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 25, 9:30 AM - 1 PM - 1405 King Street East, Kitchener - Free
The Rockway Christmas Market
Shop from local vendors selling handmade crafts, original artwork, and unique gifts. Bake sale, door prizes and so much more.
Register Now
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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. 20 & 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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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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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 continues humanitarian effort for people in the Americas from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Nov. 17, 2023
Federal, provincial and territorial immigration ministers commit to work together to maximize the benefits of immigration for Canada from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Nov. 17, 2023
Home construction inches forward to half the pace needed to meet Waterloo Region’s housing goals from The Record, Nov. 17, 2023
Report: Canada’s immigration levels will need to rise in the future from CIC News, Nov. 14, 2023
Canada seeking more francophones under Immigration Levels Plan 2024-2026 from CIC News, Nov. 13, 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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