Are there support groups available for immigrants?

Immigration often comes with a bunch of emotional challenges: culture shock, language barriers, losing social support, needing to make new connections, and adapting to unfamiliar norms. In this context, support groups play an important role by providing immigrants with a safe space to share experiences, reduce feelings of isolation, and find practical advice. There are a number of organizations in Calgary that offer various formats for such groups, from themed meetings to long-term psychological support. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the available programs, their features, formats, and recommendations for those seeking to find their community.

1. Why support groups are important

Support groups for immigrants serve several purposes:

  • Social integration: they help people make new friends and expand their circle of friends and acquaintances in a new city.

  • Emotional support: participants can openly discuss the difficulties of adaptation, which reduces stress levels.

  • Resource sharing: practical advice on finding a job, learning the language, registering with institutions, or finding housing.

  • Cultural comfort: meetings in native languages help people feel understood and accepted.

2. Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS)

CCIS is one of the largest non-governmental organizations in Calgary specializing in the integration of immigrants and refugees.

Main programs:

  1. Building Bridges home meetings
  • Format: groups of 10–12 people, meetings every two weeks.
  • Topics: adapting to Canadian culture, communication skills, career development.
  • Languages: English with interpreter support, Ukrainian if needed.
  1. Women’s Circles
  • A special group for immigrant women.
  • Topics: balancing family and work, women's health, mutual support.
  1. Youth Leadership Program

  • For teens and young adults aged 15–24.

  • Includes leadership training, volunteer projects, and mentoring meetings.

Contacts: Website: https://ccis-ab.org Phone: +1 403-536-8238

3. Immigrant Services Calgary (ISC)

ISC provides comprehensive support to immigrant families in Calgary through a range of group programs.

Key groups:

  • Café Connect

  • An informal gathering with snacks, coffee breaks, and conversation about everyday challenges.

  • Weekly meetings in coworking spaces or libraries.

  • Job Readiness Circles

  • Camps and meetings focused on job search: resume preparation, interview training, networking.

  • Newcomer Peer Support

  • A mentoring program where experienced immigrants help newcomers.

  • Meetings twice a month, combining group and individual sessions.

Contacts: Website: https://immigrantservicescalgary.ca

Phone: +1 403-265-1120

4. Calgary Counselling Centre (CCC) — group therapy

Although CCC is primarily known for individual counseling, it also runs support groups for immigrants who have experienced trauma or adjustment stress.

Programs:

  1. Trauma Recovery Groups
  • 8–12 weeks of therapy, EMDR and cognitive-behavioral therapy models.
  • Several subgroups are formed based on language, including for Ukrainian-speaking clients.
  1. Adjustment & Settlement Groups
  • Monthly meetings with a psychologist and social worker.
  • Support in resolving legal, domestic, and socio-economic issues.

Contacts: Website: https://calgarycounselling.com

Phone: +1 403-691-5991

5. Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association (CIWA)

CIWA specializes in supporting immigrant women as they adapt and find themselves in a new environment.

Groups and programs:

  • Women’s Wellbeing Groups

  • Topics: stress management, support during pregnancy and the postpartum period, motherhood in the diaspora.

  • Language Café

  • Free language meetings with volunteers, practical English lessons, discussion of cultural topics.

  • Peer Support Circles

  • Women's mutual support circles where experiences and strategies for overcoming difficulties are shared.

Contacts: Website: https://ciwa-online.com Phone: +1 403-263-4414

6. Ukrainian Canadian Social Services (UCSS)

UCSS Calgary works with the Ukrainian diaspora, offering support in Ukrainian:

  • Psychological support groups for migrants and refugees.
  • Cultural meetings: combining psychological practices (meditation, art therapy) with Ukrainian traditions (embroidery, folklore).

Contacts: find through Ukrainian communities and social networks.

7. Online groups and Meetup

7.1 Meetup.com

  • Calgary Newcomers Network – Regular online meetings and live events.
  • Global Friends Calgary – A social club where immigrants from different countries share their stories of adaptation.

7.2 Facebook Groups

  • Ukrainians in Calgary – A group for sharing advice and announcements about support meetings.
  • Calgary Newcomers Support – Formal and informal events, meetings on Zoom and in coffee shops.

8. How to choose the right group

  1. Audience: check if the group is targeted at your demographic (women, youth, families).

  2. Format: online or offline; frequency of meetings.

  3. Language: important for immigrants – make sure there is support in Ukrainian or English with translation.

  4. Cost: most programs are free or have a minimal fee; check before participating.

  5. Area of focus: psychological support, social integration, language practice, or career guidance.

9. Tips for effectiveness

  • Be open: share your stories and problems — this helps others and you understand that you are not alone.
  • Be consistent: attending meetings at least once every two weeks enhances the effect.
  • Use home practices: relaxation exercises, journaling, sharing resources with participants.
  • Network: socialize after events, exchange contacts and practices.

Support groups for immigrants in Calgary create a friendly environment where everyone can find understanding, support, and helpful advice. By using the organizations and platforms listed above, you can choose the format that best suits your needs and build a social network that will help make your adjustment easier and more enjoyable.