Guide to Refugee & Immigrant Serving Agencies Southern Alberta Region

Transcription

1 Guide to Refugee & Immigrant Serving Agencies Southern Alberta Region RESTORING FAMILY LINKS (RFL) Created August 2007

2 - 2 - The Canadian Red Cross Our mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world. The Canadian Red Cross is a non-profit humanitarian organization that provides a wide range of assistance to millions of people through our disaster relief, injury prevention, and humanitarian issues programming. It is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement which includes the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), 183 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent. Restoring Family Links The Canadian Red Cross Restoring Family Links (RFL) Program helps Canadians to re-establish contact with immediate family members after separation due to war, internal conflict, or other humanitarian crises. Similarly, individuals in other countries can place inquiries to find relatives in Canada through the network of over 183 National Red Cross or Red Crescent Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) throughout the world. We work quickly to ease uncertainties while treating all information confidentially. Refugee & Immigrant Serving Agencies Guide Due to the RFL program and familiarity/dealings with the Red Cross in their home countries, refugees and immigrants often turn to the Canadian Red Cross as their first point of contact upon arriving to Canada. However, the Canadian Red Cross does not have programs and services in place that are specific to the needs of these groups. Recognizing refugees and immigrants as vulnerable peoples who face unique challenges, this document is designed to build the capacity of Southern Alberta s RFL caseworkers to knowledgably refer refugees and immigrants to the program, services, and agencies in place for these groups in Southern Alberta (south of and not including Red Deer). Using This Document This guide provides fact sheets for Southern Alberta s immigrant and refugee serving agencies, including general information and comprehensive listings and description of their programming. However you can also use the table of contents to search for agencies by a specific service. Note: this guide is not a full list of all services that are available. Additional information is available at a public website of community, government, health and social services. If you can t find what you are looking for or don t have access to a computer (consider using a CAP sites featuring free computer access) call 211 or talk to a staff member at any of the agencies listed..

3 - 3 - Southern Alberta Refugee & Immigrant Serving Agencies * Listing of agencies south of and not including Red Deer Immigrant-serving agencies provide information and guidance for newcomers after they arrive in Alberta. These organizations help immigrants find the services they need (for example, health care, language training, education, employment, family services or interpreter services). Counsellors at immigrant-serving agencies often speak several languages and many are immigrants or refugees themselves and understand the challenges involved in settling in a new country. You can also find the agencies close to you by calling the Alberta Career Information Hotline toll-free at Services provided by these agencies are generally categorized in the following reference table: (However, agencies may provide services that do not fit in to these specific categories therefore it is best to refer to the services and program descriptions in this guide for a full understanding of what s available to clients)

4 - 4 - Reference Table C Children s Services: Daycare, childminding, child development programs Citizenship Training: Citizenship classes Community Participation & Education: Community outreach, community development, common kitchen/garden promotion of civic participation, Computer Services: Internet/ , computer training, or Community Access Program (CAP) Counselling Services: Individual/family counselling, support groups, first language counselling, professional counselling Cultural Groups Capacity Building Services: Provide support to or help start cultural associations E Employment Services and Skills Training: Vocational or career counselling, skills training, resume preparation, job referrals, employment networking, work placement, workplace orientation, information on professional accreditation F Family Services: Family resource center, parenting programs, family conflict program, family literacy H Health Services: Health promotion health education & mental health counselling and support services I Interpretation and First Language Assistance: L Language Assessment and LINC/ESL Referral Services:

5 - 5 - English proficiency and first language literacy assessment; LINC/ESL eligibility assessment/information/referral services Note: LINC is a federally funded language training program, free of charge for qualified immigrants and refugees. English as a Second Language (ESL) programs are free of charge. Language Training: ESL, job related language training, LINC training, literacy support Legal Assistance: Legal advice from a lawyer on immigration, housing, income maintenance, employment standards, family law R Racism/Discrimination: Diversity issues, human rights; advocacy on issues of access and equity; anti racism workshops; cultural competency awareness Refugee Services: Airport reception, refugee sponsorship, refugee education scholarship, all settlement services Resettlement Services: Reception, information, referral orientation, resettlement assistance, supportive counselling S Seniors Programs: Support services for seniors T Temporary Accommodation and Food Services Translation Services: Certified Document Translation V Volunteer Programs: Volunteer training, volunteer opportunities Y Youth Programs: Individual support and counselling; homework/after school programs; ESL tutoring; summer camp; recreational programs; career planning; employment support

6 - 6 - Table of Contents: ALBERTA (general) : Alberta Association of Immigrant Serving Agencies...Page 10 BROOKS : Global Friendship Immigration Centre (GFIC)...Page 12 Community Participation & Education Counselling Services Cultural groups Capacity Building Family Services Health Services Interpretation and First Language Assistance: Refugee Services Resettlement Services Seniors Programs Youth Programs CALGARY: Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth*...Page 15 *focus on Youth Counselling Services Family Services Resettlement Services Volunteer Programs Youth Programs Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS)...Page 18 Children s Services Community Participation Computer Services Employment Services and Skills Training Health Services Interpretation and First Language Assistance Language Training Resettlement Services Racism/Discrimination Seniors Programs Volunteer Programs

7 - 7 - Calgary Immigrant Aid Society (CIAS)...Page 25 Children s Services Citizenship Training Community Participation Computer Services Counselling Services Employment Services and Skills Training Family Services Interpretation and First Language Assistance Legal Assistance Racism/Discrimination Resettlement Services Senior Programs Translation Services Volunteer Programs Youth Programs Calgary Immigrant Educational Society (CIES)...Page 34 Children s Services Computer Services Employment Services and Skills Training Language Training Resettlement Services Volunteer Programs Calgary Immigrant Women s Association* (CIWA)...Page 36 *focusing On Women Children s Services Community Participation Computer Services Counselling Services Employment Services and Skills Training Family Services Health Services Interpretation and First Language Assistance Language Training Legal Assistance Racism/Discrimination Resettlement Services Volunteer Programs Youth Programs Calgary Multicultural Centre (CMC)...Page 51 *for info on ethno cultural communities

8 - 8 - Community Participation & Education Cultural groups Capacity Building Language Training Volunteer Programs Center for Newcomers (CFN)...Page 56 Children s Services Community Participation Counselling Services Employment Services and Skills Training Family Services Language Training Resettlement Services Racism/Discrimination Volunteer Programs Youth Programs Centre d accueil pour les nouveaux arrivants francophones (CANAF)*...Page 64 *for Francophone Newcomers Computer Services Counselling Services Interpretation and First Language Assistance Resettlement Services Volunteer Programs Ethnocultual Council of Calgary...Page 66 For info on ethno cultural communities Jewish Family Services Calgary...Page 67 Children s Services Computer Services Counselling Services Employment Services and Skills Training Interpretation and First Language Assistance Resettlement Services Senior Programs Translation Services LETHBRIDGE: Lethbridge Family Services*...Page 74 *has Immigrant Services Arm Community Participation & Education Counselling Services Family Services

9 - 9 - Health Services Interpretation and First Language Assistance Resettlement Services Seniors Programs Volunteer Programs MEDICINE HAT: Saamis Immigration Services Association...Page 80 Children s Services Community Participation & Education Computer Services Counselling Services Employment Services and Skills Training Family Services Health Services Interpretation and First Language Assistance Language Training Refugee Services Resettlement Services Temporary Accommodation and Food Services Volunteer Programs

10 ALBERTA: FACT SHEET: Alberta Association of Immigrant Serving Agencies (AAISA) No direct services to clients Information sharing between immigrant and refugee serving agencies Researches and evaluates trends; makes recommendations concerning the needs of immigrants and refugees to Canadian Government Organizes provincial and national settlement conferences yearly (to attend see website for upcoming conferences; past conference reports available online) Organizes consultations (past consultation reports available online) Combats systemic discrimination and advocates on behalf of immigrants and refugees Promotes recognition of settlement/integration work as a profession Main Location : Suite 115 Mailing Address: 3rd Floor Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2S 2T2 Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday: 8:30 am 4:30pm Weekends & statutory holidays: Closed Contact Information: Phone: (403) Fax: (403) contact@aaisa.ca Website:

11 AAISA does not engage in direct service delivery but it does run a Settlement Worker s Training program. Furthermore the Immigrant Sector Council of Calgary (ISCC) is a sub body of the AAISA operating in Calgary (not the greater Southern Alberta region) Immigrant Sector Council of Calgary: Comprised of a group of stakeholders in the immigrant-serving sector; immigrant-serving agencies, funding partners, collateral agencies, and ethno-specific agencies in the city of Calgary. The mission of the ISCC is to "Work cooperatively and collaboratively to facilitate timely and equitable settlement and integration of all immigrants and refugees in Calgary." For information about the Immigrant Sector Council of Calgary, iscc@aaisa.ca Settlement Worker s Training: This program provides standardized training and service delivery for settlement practitioners in Alberta. It has also established a formal accreditation processes. AASIA settlement training is only available to staff of AAISA agencies For information about the Settlement Workers Training Project swtp@aaisa.ca

12 BROOKS : FACT SHEET: Global Friendship Immigration Centre (GFIC) Main Location: 2nd Floor 120-1st Avenue East Mailing address: Box 1742 Brooks, AB T1R 1C5 Hours of Operation: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Wednesday: 9:30 am - 8:00 pm Friday, weekends& statutory holidays: Closed Contact Information: Phone: (403) Fax: (403) info@gfic.ca Website:

13 Community Gardens project: The Community Garden provides all of the citizens of Brooks with an opportunity to participate in growing their own garden and is meant to foster a sense of unity. The garden also promotes permanent food security by encouraging self-reliance, as well as healthy diets and an active lifestyle. The Community Garden is centrally located and is within walking distance from all area of town Cultural Diversity Program: Promotes the valuing of diversity within the communities through community based initiatives at many different levels Family/Youth Program: Facilitates positive family dynamics through social support, programs, and referrals to other services. The Integrated Service program (ISP): Provides resettlement services for government sponsored refugees and independent immigrants and includes the following: Orientation and Information Interpretation and Translation Assistance with Application/Documentation Counselling Family and Individuals Referral to other Community Services Special needs Assessment Assistance for Refugee Claimants Assistance to sponsor family member and relatives ICAMS data entering GFIC Intake data entering Assistance with youth in school and after school Assistance parent, women, and seniors Developing and organizing ethno cultural communities Emergency interpretation and translation at RCMP, Hospital, Court, and women shelter. The Services Program: Services for immigrants and their families include: Multicultural education Sponsorship and family unification

14 Health services Integration services Adult education workshops

15 CALGARY: FACT SHEET: Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth High focus on immigrant and refugee students Currently conducting the Immigrant Children and Youth Pilot Project which is a multi year research project that began in 2004 with a review of services for immigrant children and youth in Calgary (12-20 yrs). This research resulted in the report Conversations for Change: an Overview of Services for Immigrant Children and Youth (June, 2004). Hopes to address the many issues faced by youth whose first language is not English. Main Location: 201, th Avenue N.E. Calgary, AB T2E 5T8 Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday: 9:00 am 5:00 pm Sunday & statutory holidays: Closed Contact Information: Phone: (403) Fax: (403) admin@calgarybridgefoundation.com Website:

16 Family Program The Family Assistance Program is conducted at the homes of immigrant youth. Staff members visit families for two hours per week over a 4-week period. The program works with students to help develop good study skills and assists parents by familiarizing them with community services and discussing cross cultural issues that may arise. The Family Assistance Program reduces the feeling of isolation that many families may encounter in their adjustment to Canada. Homework Club Working in cooperation with the Calgary Public Library, the Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth holds a drop-in Homework Club at several locations in Calgary. Immigrant youth (Grades 1-12) meet at libraries after school to receive help with homework in various school subjects from bilingual staff and volunteers. Students also have the opportunity to interact with other student youth. Locations: Forest Lawn Library; Village Square Library; Thornhill Library; Country Hills Library School Programs In-School Settlement Program Calgary's In-School Settlement (ISS) Program aims to help first-year immigrant families with their settlement needs. Through an assessment, the ISS workers link and connect families with community and school services through various agency referrals. ISS workers proactively to contact each newcomer family to offer them assistance to promote seamless integration into Canada. ISS program services are offered in a culturally competent manner, with language services specific to family needs. Life Skills After-School Program The Life Skills After-School Program runs in various Junior High and Elementary Schools. This program includes exciting recreational activities, arts & crafts, as well as fun and educational activities designed to assist students in the integration process within school and society. Some activities include learning how to access different community services and facilities, discussing the meaning of the Canadian traditions (Christmas, Easter, Halloween, Valentine's Day, etc.); studying Canadian law, banking, nutrition, volunteer opportunities and career exploration.

17 Link Youth Nurture Excellence (LYNX) Project The LYNX Project involves the development and implementation of innovative programming and services for ESL students, both refugees and immigrants, who are several years behind academically, have low literacy skills and may be at risk of not completing high school. This is a joint initiative of the Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth, the Calgary Board of Education and the Calgary Catholic School Board. United Way of Calgary and Area has provided funding for this initiative. Summer Literacy Program The Summer Literacy Program operates at several locations around Calgary for both Elementary and Junior High students. The students participate in vocabulary building, spelling tests, reading and writing lessons. In addition, students have the opportunity to complete fun arts and crafts and participate in recreational activities. Each program includes an exciting fieldtrip. In the past, students have attended Calaway Park, The Calgary Science Center and Heritage Park. See website for locations for any given summer.

18 FACT SHEET: CALGARY CATHOLIC IMMIGRATION SOCIETY (CCIS) In addition to its programs, CCIS hosts a number of career fairs thought the year Main Location: 3rd Floor th Ave SW Calgary AB T2S 2T2 Hours of Operation: All week: 8:30 pm 4:30 pm General Contact Information: Phone: (403) Fax : (403) contact@ccis-calgary.ab.ca Website:

19 CCIS Business, Employment and Training Division Provided to all refugees and immigrants in the areas of pre-employment training, pre-employment counselling and skill building for the long term goal of obtaining self-sufficiency. It also operates an employer and community outreach program and a corporate recruitment program. For more information contact: gradan@ccis-calgary.ab.ca Computer Training Program Classes available in English and Spanish are designed for all adults (Canadian Citizens and Landed Immigrants) to assist in the upgrading of job skills. As the program is subsidized, the fees are subject to change as per student's annual income (include administration fee and all manuals for Computer Classes) Classes: Introduction to Windows XP & Internet/ ; MS Word Foundation; MS Excel Foundation; MS Access Foundation; MS Word, MS Excel, MS Access Advanced; MS Publisher; MS PowerPoint; Front Page - Web Page Design; Keyboarding; MS Project For more information call (403) or hoc@ccis-calgary.ab.ca Employment counselling program: Career planning Labour standards and health safety Resume preparation Job leads/placement Workshops: Career Bridge Workshops (CBW) - Dynamic three-week group programs on Canadian Job Search Techniques for new Canadians seeking employment Immigrant Youth Outreach Project (IYOP): We assist immigrant youth with cultural, linguistic and employment barriers to better integrate youth into Canadian society by providing them with information and support in areas of education, employment skills and life skills training. For more information, visit:

20 Pre-employment skills for work training programs: CCIS, with its partners, provides a variety of training opportunities to meet the demands of the regional labour market Upgrading and Certification for Electricians Program For more information ele@ccis-calgary.ab.ca Engineering and Technology Upgrading Program For more information eng@ccis-calgary.ab.ca The Baking Training Program For more information bake@ccis-calgary.ab.ca Millwright Program - industries such as Pulp &Paper, Steel & Saw, Refineries, Breweries, Chemical Plants For more information mrp@ccis-calgary.ab.ca Drilling Rig-Hand Training - Training opportunities in oil and gas For more information dril@ccis-calgary.ab.ca. Signposts for Youth Program: this new program facilitates the process of integrating immigrant youth into the Canadian workplace. It provides participants with skills in management, job search, and life enhancement, in addition to fostering relationships with volunteer mentors from the community. The program includes a 16-week work wage-subsidy work placement. For more information signposts@ccis-calgary.ab.ca

21 CCIS Community Development & Integration Division The Community Development and Integration Services Division facilities CCIS involvement with the community through voluntarism and community outreach in the areas of multicultural education, sponsorship and family reunification, health, integration services and adult education for families and seniors. For more information dfisher@ccis-calgary.ab.ca Programs Offered: Calgary Host Program Youth Host Program Host Support Program for Survivors of Torture Immigrant Seniors Services Immigrant Seniors Host/Literacy Project Addressing Elderly Needs in a Multicultural Environment Regional Outreach Program Cultural Competency Enhancement Services Legal Workshop Series Notary Services Volunteer Services

22 CCIS Family & Children Services Division Operates The Family Place - a family resource centre that provides general support programs and referral. The Family & Children Services Division facilitates the integration of families, with a heavy focus on the settlement and integration process of children. It also works with Calgary Rocky View Child & Family Services, in order to facilitate and enhance programs and services for newcomers in Calgary. Programs are offered through CCIS s The New Family Place daycare centers & Cross Cultural Children's Centre: For more information call Before & After School programs Offered to school-age children (6-11) and youth (12-16), and includes Academic support Social/recreational activities. Day Care Program*: Offers licensed, high quality care for children 0 to 6 at some of the lowest rates in Calgary (downtown location & subsidies are available) *Can accommodate children with mild to moderate special needs through a Supported Child Care program. Kindergarten program: A low student-teacher ratio with a strong emphasis on language development. Funded by Alberta Learning, this program meets provincial curriculum standards and is free of charge.

23 CCIS Language Instruction Division CCIS offers a range of classes to meet a variety of needs, from prebenchmark to LINC Level 4*, with some literacy support. For more information lc@ccis-calgary.ab.ca Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) Program Students must be referred to LINC through the Calgary Immigrant Aid Society. For an appointment, please call Material is taught to the national standards & ESL teaching staff is accredited by the association of Alberta Teachers of English as a Second Language (ATESL). & the program follows the Best Practices Guidelines as set out by ATESL. English in the Workplace Program Through this program CCIS provides the following courses: English in the Workplace and Skills for Work Programs International and Business Communications Corporate language training for employees

24 CCIS Resettlement and Integration Services Division The Resettlement and Integration Services division of CCIS provides programs to Government Assisted Refugees and other immigrants to facilitate their integration. Services are free of charge. For more information call CCIS s Margaret Chisholm Resettlement Centre (MCRC) at or mcrc@ccis-calgary.ab.ca. CCIS s Margaret Chisholm Resettlement Center (MCRC) is located on 23 McDougall Court NE, Calgary, AB, T2E 8R3 Airport Reception Program This project is organized and facilitated by reception at the Calgary International Airport and provides: Greetings to newcomers, Provision of appropriate clothing during the winter months and Responds to other immediate needs upon arrival Integrated Service Program This ongoing program is provided to all immigrants and refugees upon arrival, up to 3 years being in Canada. Initial assessment, orientation, Current information to start resettlement process, Goal setting, Referrals to existing services, Emergency translation, Interpretation, Housing referrals, Non-therapeutic counselling, Social and recreational activities Follow ups. Resettlement Assistance Program Initial and resettlement services are delivered for Government Assisted Refugees within 4-6 weeks upon their arrival in Canada. Temporary accommodations Initial assessment and the delivery of orientation and information Linkage to other existing services

25 FACT SHEET: CALGARY IMMIGRANT AID SOCIETY (CIAS) In charge of all referrals to LINC/ESL classes Annual Immigrants of Distinction Awards (IDA) in Arts & Culture, Business, Community Service, Distinguished Professional, Organizational Diversity (also, recognizes organizations that have made outstanding efforts in implementing diversity initiatives in the workplace) Award scholarships to immigrant youth Main Location: 1200, 910-7th Avenue S.W. Calgary AB T2P 3N8 Hours of Operation: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 8:30 am 4:30 pm Thursday: 8:30 am 7:00 pm Friday: 8:30 am 1:30 pm Weekends& statutory holidays: Closed Contact Information: Phone: (403) Fax: (403) info@calgaryimmigrantaid.ca Website:

26 CIAS Immigrant Language and Vocational Assessment-Referral Centre (ILVARC) ILVARC is a centralized assessment and referral centre designed to help immigrants and refugees achieve their linguistic, educational, vocational, and career goals. ILVARC is also authorized to determine client s eligibility for the federally sponsored Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Services are provided by appointment only. Location: 1401, 910-7th Avenue S.W (T2P 3N8) For more info call or ilvarc@calgaryimmigrantaid.ca Language and Vocational Assessment-Referral Program Assessment: English proficiency: -The CLBA test assesses Adult English listening / speaking; reading; & writing skills First language literacy: - CLBLA test assesses first language literacy skills (literacy is considered separately from English proficiency. Literacy benchmarks are assigned for reading, writing, and numeracy. - The CLBPT assesses learners in a time efficient manner, providing benchmark results in listening, speaking, reading, and writing) Eligibility determination for the LINC program Information on, and referral to, appropriate LINC or ESL classes Counselling in first language or English regarding education, career planning, accreditation and job search techniques Workshops in English and other languages on career planning, job search strategies, resume writing, interview skills, training workshops, financial resources, and accreditation procedures. Information on, and referral to, support services such as settlement, income support and financial resources Follow up See Index C for ESL Directory (A Directory of ESL Programs and Services for Immigrants and International Students in Calgary)

27 CIAS Mosaic Family Resource Centre The Mosaic Centre offers services to Calgary's immigrant and refugee families with young children addressing health, educational, social, and emotional needs. The Mosaic Centre is located at #520, 910-7th Avenue S.W, T2P 3N8. For more info call or mosaic@calgaryimmigrantaid.ca Children and Parents' Programs Provides preventative and interceptive services for new Canadian families with young children, who require support in accessing health, recreational and social services and early childhood education resources in Calgary. Services are provided both on-site at the Mosaic Family Resource Centre and within the community. Community Access Project Multicultural community-based services for seniors and isolated families. This project is aimed at increasing participation and reducing isolation, as well as developing a supportive network to access community services. Drop - In Monday Family Program Play-based learning activities for children and parents together. Parents are invited to participate in workshops that discuss issues related to health, nutrition, parenting, education and community resources. Family Literacy Program The Family Literacy Program is offered in the north east community for immigrant and refugee parents and children. This program allows parents to participate in literacy activities to improve children's language and help parents to develop skills to support their children's learning. Registration is required. Healthy Start Calgary (Calgary Health Region) Provides pre-natal and post-natal information to immigrant families with children 0-12 months experiencing barriers to health in order to increase their capacity to make healthy choices. There is a drop-in component to support parents and provide advice, milk coupons and bus tickets to attend the program. Workshops are provided to parents about nutrition, post-partum depression, positive discipline and attachment.

28 High Fidelity Wraparound Program Provide a system of care for immigrant and refugee families determined by Calgary and Area Child and Family Services Authority (CACFSA). Guided by the principles of the High Fidelity Wraparound Approach this system of care uses strengths-based, family focused, child-centred and team oriented strategies to meet the needs of immigrant and refugee families in a culturally sensitive manner within the constraints of the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act. Integrated Fathers and Children Participatory Project This project addresses the specific needs of immigrant fathers or male caregivers with children ages 3-6. The target population is multi-barriered immigrant and refugee men and their children who are experiencing poverty, underemployment/unemployment issues, attachment, health issues, trauma, language barriers, cultural isolation and challenges related to integration into Canadian society. The project offers learning activities for fathers and children together, along with parent information sessions for fathers and age appropriate activities for children that will help them prepare for school. Fathers are provided with social interactions and support through spending quality time with other fathers and their children. This is a free 8 - week program runs for 2.5 hours on Saturday, and includes field trips to the zoo, science center, and library. The program also offers workshops on various topics such as the Canadian Education System, Community Services for New Immigrants and Refugees, Children and Nutrition. Men's Program (various dates & times) This program provides an opportunity for immigrant and refugee men to meet and work together in a group setting to discuss anger management, conflict resolution and communication issues. The objective is to help participants successfully adapt to life in Canada. Through workshops, referral services and individual supportive counselling, participants will learn skills for everyday living and working in Calgary. Multicultural Family and Child Training Project Provide targeted multicultural intervention and support for high-risk immigrant and refugee families with children ages 0 to 6. The purpose of the program is to support multi-barriered, hard-to-reach families from underserved ethnic communities who are experiencing parenting difficulties in Canadian society. This play-based learning program prepares children for

29 success in school through social and skill development. Parent groups help educate parents in areas such as positive parenting, communication, community resources, and how to stimulate and interact with children in a developmentally appropriate was. Group support is offered in a variety of community settings such as schools, community resource centres, libraries and family homes. Multicultural Youth Street Smart Program This program is a holistic, culturally sensitive program aimed at educating immigrant youth and their parents about crime prevention and community safety. The program provides support, encourages intergenerational communication and social inclusion for teenage youth and their parents. The program works collaboratively with ethnic communities and provides services at the Mosaic Centre and different community venues. Pre-School Program A play-based curriculum supports the social, cognitive, physical, and emotional and language development of immigrant and refugee children 3-5 years old. Pre-school parents are invited to participate in workshops that discuss issues related to health, nutrition, and parenting, education, and community resources. Parent support program is also available. Fee: $25.00 per 3 month semester Supportive Counselling Parent and Early Childhood Facilitators are available for informal supportive counselling and community resources information. Childcare is provided free of charge during drop-in service Toy & Book Lending Library Families are invited to borrow toys and books from our library to enjoy at home and exchange at a later time.

30 CIAS Skills Centre The skills center is part of the larger Mosaic Family Center but focuses on vocational skill building and counselling (mostly for Immigrant Youth). It is Located on 540, 910-7th Avenue S.W. (T2P 3N8) For more info call or mosaic@calgaryimmigrantaid.ca Youth Industry Internship Program (YIIP) This is a unique skill building program designed to help immigrant youth between obtain employment in industries that are in great demand. The program goal is to increase the skills and marketability of participants, while providing valuable full-time work experience to establish future job security. The program consists of workshops that will cover skills needed for the Canadian workplace, paid job work experience, ongoing career counselling and supportive services, and follow-up services. For more info call the Youth Industry Internship Program Coordinator at The Youth Skills Connection Centre (YSCC) The Youth Skills Connections Centre offers outreach, assessment, referral, and follow-up to immigrant and refugee youth between the ages of 15 and 30 who are having difficulty identifying career goals and who are facing challenges integrating into the Canadian workplace. All our services are provided free of charge by volunteers who can assist in over 72 languages. For more information drop-in to the Youth Skills Connection Centre or call the skills center to book an appointment. Services Include: Outreach: open house, youth fair, orientations, networking breakfasts, ethnic lunches, and celebrations Self Directed Resource Centre: computer and printer access; job search website links; brochures and pamphlets about youth services in our community; employment resource materials Assessment and Referral: free and comprehensive assessment services; individual employment counselling; help in determining most immediate needs; career planning support; referrals to appropriate services and programs; assistance in accessing community supports

31 Career Focus Program The Career Focus Program is intended for post-secondary graduates who are immigrant youth, Canadian youth, or protected persons between 21 and 30. Graduates who are unemployed or do not have significant labour market attachment related to their field of study are given work placement opportunities in a career related field for a 25 week term. Candidates must have an action plan, resume, cover letter, translated diplomas/degrees and educational documents, a job log, and Canadian accreditation or educational equivalencies as well as Canadian Language Benchmark Assessments to be eligible for the program. Candidates must also not have received employment insurance or reach-back in the last 3 to 5 years. Career Pathways Program This is for any member of the Sudanese community. The program will provide workshops and one-on-one employment coaching sessions with clients on a range of issues including communication skills, time management, positive thinking, resume building, interview skills, job seeking skills, and job maintenance skills. Clients will receive support in their development of an action plan, understanding of Canadian work place, and pro-active behaviours.

32 CIAS Settlement Services (& Language Bank) These services respond to the settlement needs of newcomers to Canada. Other services include citizenship classes and an extensive volunteer program. Services are provided in both individual and group sessions in the newcomer s first language or in basic English. Information / Orientation/Referral Program: provides information on community resources, how to access them and link newcomers to resources through referral. Interpretation/Translation These Services are provided by the CIAS Language Bank which is committed to advocating and facilitating equal access for immigrants and refugees to various community services and programs by developing formal partnerships with institutions, service providers, government and the not-forprofit sector. The Language bank also translates documents in order for them to access settlement, employment, education, and counselling services. Located on 1200, 910-7th Avenue S.W. (T2P 3N8). Services may be subject to cost recovery. Interpretation services are available in the following areas: Settlement, Counselling, Employment, and Education Language Bank translators translate documents to and from English including Certificates, Diplomas, Licences, Transcripts, Brochures, Leaflets and Forms For more info call or languagebank@calgaryimmigrantaid.ca Supportive Counselling to Assist Individuals and Families in Crisis Supportive counselling services are provided to newcomers to Canada facing settlement issues. Group Workshops and Orientation sessions Group workshops and orientation sessions on a variety of topics including: immigration law, health concerns, legal services, housing issues and community resources. For more information or registration call

33 Citizenship Classes Citizenship classes prepare immigrants and refugees for the Canadian citizenship exam and help them acquire skills, knowledge and confidence for informed and responsible participation in Canadian society. Various times and locations available For more information or registration call Ext 275

34 FACT SHEET: CALGARY IMMIGRANT EDUCATIONAL SOCIETY All program registration is done in person during office hours, and payment (where required) must be made in cash Main Location: th Street South East Calgary, AB T2A 7Y3 Hours of Operation: Monday to Thursday: 8:30 am 9:00 pm Friday: 8:30 am 4:30 pm Saturday: 9:00 am 3:00 pm Sunday & statutory holidays: Closed Contact Information: Phone: (403) Fax: (403) info@immigrant-education.ca Website:

35 Computer courses: CIES offers computer courses to help immigrants learn the computer skills they need to be competitive in today's marketplace (Calgary businesses are the second highest in the country for Internet usage according to Statistics Canada). Courses include basic computer skills as well as skills for specific software programs (Basic Computer, Power Point and MS Access, Clerical training, Simply Accounting, and Basic Accounting). Citizenship Class: Provides newcomers with the skills, knowledge and confidence necessary for participation in Canadian society. Also, explores Canadian immigration programs, cultural issues, immigration legal services, and other topics. There is a $10.00 fee per person. For more information or registration call Employment services: Our Employment Services provide customized employment and academic solutions as well as a job referral service and one-on-one assistance with resume writing and interview skills. These services are offered free of charge. Language Instruction: Offer courses for all levels including non-literate ESL training, LINC programs, and enhanced language training (ETL). Drop-in ESL courses ($40.00 dollar fee for ESL pre-basic, basic, intermediate and advanced ESL). Scheduling accommodates those with fulltime jobs. Literacy and Basic English courses are designed to help those who cannot read or write English, acquire the essentials of English. Offered free of charge. LINC courses are free for newcomers to Canada and provide a uniform quality of language training across the country. Offer LINC classes every day from LINC level 1 to LINC level 3. Childminding is available, free of charge, to full time LINC students with children between 19 months to 6 years.

36 Information services: Provides information on the accreditation process and the expectations of Alberta employers to Immigrant Professionals who received their training outside of Canada.

37 FACT SHEET: CALGARY IMMIGRANT WOMEN S AGENCY (CIWA) only agency offering all female classrooms, workshops and access to services Main Location: First Street Plaza 200, 138 4th Avenue SE Calgary, AB T2G 4Z6 Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday: 9:00 am 4:30 pm Weekends& statutory holidays: Closed General Contact Information: Phone: (403) Fax: (403) general@ciwa-online.com Website:

38 CIWA Employment Skills Services For further information or for any inquiries regarding specific programs, call ext. 18 or employment@ciwa-online.com Accounting Training This program offers basic accounting skills to immigrant women through a six-week session. The course material includes a general introduction to accounting, payroll accounting and the QuickBooks computer program. Individual Employment Counselling Individual counselling supports immigrant women to identify and discuss employment opportunities, establish realistic employment goals and an implementation plan of action aimed at labour market integration. Individual sessions are provided on topics such as: resume enhancement, cover letter writing, mock interviews and other individualized services. Making Changes Program This course is a pre-employment, life skills orientation program done in partnership with the Making Changes Employment Association of Alberta. Networking Breakfast Meeting Immigrant women have an opportunity to network with various corporate representatives and employment agencies across Calgary. This orientation enables them to learn about the various aspects of networking from resume tips, talking to potential employers, how to make a good first impression and networking in Canada. Pre-employment and Employment Workshops Clients attend group workshops for guidance in areas related to preemployment and employment. Workshop topics include: Canadian Workplace Culture Support for Foreign Trained Engineers Job Search tips Labour Standards Networking First Impressions

39 Communicate with Confidence Job Interview Skills Computer Training for Beginners Accreditation (Immigrant Qualifications Assessment Service) Receptionist Training The main objective of the Receptionist Training is to facilitate labour force re-entry and to build the self-sufficiency of immigrant women, with previous office administration experience. The training provides immigrant women with the necessary upgrading skills and academic knowledge to qualify for entry-level office assistant positions in various organizations and businesses.

40 CIWA Family Services Baby Club An interactive 8-week workshop that enhances the knowledge of child development among immigrant and refugee women with their child at various stages between 0-18 months. It is an opportunity for mothers to meet new friends and provide support to one another in a relaxed and educational environment. It is a free program and covers issues such as nutrition, growth and development, child safety and illness, etc. For more information call ext. 39. Best Beginning partnership (Calgary Health Region) Provides multicultural outreach workers for pregnant women in areas such as health, social, or financial concerns. Please schedule an appointment to see an outreach worker. For further information call ext. 23 or familyservices@ciwa-online.com Cross-Cultural Parenting Program* This is a unique "cross-cultural" parent education program that assists immigrant and refugee parents in facing the added challenge of parenting in a new country and culture. The Cross-Cultural Parenting Program provides practical information on parenting & examines parent/child relationships. This program is delivered at various locations throughout the city to groups and individual families free of charge. Free childcare is also available. * Training workshops for individuals interested in facilitating sessions for the Cross-Cultural Parenting Program are offered. For more info call ext 33 or parenting@ciwaonline.com Crossing the Bridge Project This cross-cultural counselling project is funded by Alberta Children's Services under the prevention of Family Violence and Bullying Community Incentive Fund. Crossing the Bridge aims to decrease barriers to community services for immigrant women and their families who are experiencing conflict/violence situations. Partnerships are established with various ethnic and faith communities to deliver this project successfully.

41 Family Conflict Program Provides help for immigrant refugee women and families who are experiencing abuse and problems in their marital/family life. Free professional cross-cultural counselling is provided during flexible hours in many first languages at CIWA and off-site locations. Assistance is also available for legal issues and social services. The Family Counsellors provide individual and group services that include: assessment, crisis/shortterm counselling, advocacy, referral, outreach, volunteer support and followup for the clients of the program. Services are confidential and free of charge and provided by professional family counsellors. Girl s culture club This club is a school-based program that provides an opportunity for young immigrant women to build friendships, learn more about diverse cultures, explore topics of interest and have fun through activities such as arts & crafts and field trips. It is a supportive group environment where participants discuss issues and brainstorm solutions among their peers. Groups are held in 12 elementary, junior and senior schools in Calgary. Hand-in-hand parent link centre The Parent Link Centre supports parents in their role as their child's primary and most significant teacher. They will also provide parents with links to parenting programs and services through a province-wide network promoting family wellness, child development, and ensures young children get a healthy start to life. The centre is located at th Street NE For more information call ext. 22 Home Visitation Program partnership with Healthy Families Provides long-term support to families with newborns and very young children. It provides information, education, and connects the family to other community support services. Program delivery is throughout the Calgary area covering over 35 different communities. Referrals for this program are made by a qualified health nurse while the child in under the age of three months and will receive services until that child is 5 years old. After that they will refer the child to the proper services.

42 In-Home Support Program In collaboration with Calgary and Area Child and Family Services Authority, CIWA is able to offer in home support to aid immigrant children, youth, and families feel safe and protected and overcome at-risk circumstances such as family violence. Through referrals from Child Welfare this program recognizes the unique needs and challenges families face and are therefore in need of culturally appropriate services in the form of counselling and family support. Summer camp The summer camp runs during July and August and provides an opportunity for young immigrant women to participate in activities such as recreation, crafts, field trips and discussions on youth issues. Participants are exposed to a variety of culture and learn about different tradition, festivals and events and places around Calgary. For more contact the Youth Program at or by at: youth@ciwa-online.com Youth Program Addresses the needs and concerns of culturally diverse women between the ages of years in several locations throughout Calgary in a supportive group environment where participants discuss issues such as self-esteem, racism/harassment, education/career goals, family and peer relationships, ethnic and Canadian culture, leadership/volunteerism, health and safety, and conflict resolution. The young women have the opportunity to build friendships, learn about Canadian and other cultures, and gain information to facilitate life long decisions through group discussions, activities, videos, guest speakers, and field trips. The program has begun outreach to other educational institutions & continues its community outreach and advocacy for young immigrant and culturally diverse young women through participation in local and provincial committees. Individual support and counselling are also available For more contact the Youth Program at or by at youth@ciwa-online.com