Building Connections, Creating Belonging

Starting fresh in a new community can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our Social Integration Program is designed to help you connect with people, traditions, and activities that make settling in more meaningful. From cultural events and community gatherings to networking opportunities, you’ll find spaces where you can share, learn, and build lasting relationships that make your new home feel truly yours

Our Approach to Community Connection

We provide a streamlined approach to help you feel integrated and connected. Our assistance focuses on guiding you through the critical areas of community life.

  • Community Events & Activities: We help you find local events, festivals, and workshops that allow you to explore your new city and meet people with shared interests.
  • Local Groups & Clubs: We provide guidance on how to join local clubs, sports teams, or special interest groups to turn your hobbies into friendships.
  • Volunteering Opportunities: We connect you with volunteer positions that allow you to gain Canadian experience, contribute to your community, and meet like-minded people.
  • Family & Children Programs: We provide resources for finding parent-and-child programs, after-school activities, and community centers where your family can connect with others.
  • Cultural & Religious Connections: We offer information on finding cultural centers, places of worship, and community associations that can help you maintain your heritage while building a new life.
Connect and Belong

Build connections and feel at home through engaging social integration programs

Our Support

Essential Resources to Get You Started

Building friendships, joining community life, and feeling at home in Canada takes time. These programs, services, and networks can help newcomers connect socially, culturally, and emotionally.

1. Community Matching & Mentoring

  • Canada Connects — Volunteer befriending program pairing newcomers with locals to build friendships and learn about community life.
  • Community Connections (IRCC) — Brings volunteers and newcomers together for intercultural exchange, networking, and practical settlement help.

2. School & Family-Centred Supports

3. Local Welcome Hubs & Settlement Agencies

  • Find Free Newcomer Services Near You — IRCC Tool — Search for local settlement agencies, welcome centres, and integration programs.
  • YMCA Newcomer Information Centres — In-person help, social groups, and workshops for newcomers in many cities.
  • Achēv Newcomer Information Centre — One-on-one referrals, employment help, and community events.
  • S.U.C.C.E.S.S. BC Newcomer Services — Large settlement hub offering social, language, and cultural programs.
  • Centre for Newcomers (Calgary) — Offers settlement, integration, and cultural community events.

4. Libraries, Neighbourhood Houses & Everyday Social Spaces

5. Targeted Social & Cultural Programs

6. Events, Festivals & Cultural Engagement

7. Quick Help & Service Directories

  • Dial 2-1-1 — Free helpline and directory for community programs, volunteer opportunities, and clubs (available in many languages).
  • Open Directories & Service Finders — Provincial and local listings for newcomer and volunteer programs.
  • IRCC Settlement Services

 

8. Mental Health & Peer Support

Ready to Start Your Journey? Let’s Make It Easier, Together

Starting fresh in a new place can be challenging, but you don’t have to navigate it by yourself. Whether it’s settling into your community, accessing key services, or finding the right support, we’re here to make the transition smoother and more meaningful.

Contact Us
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