Are there any volunteer programs for newcomers?

There are many volunteer programs in Calgary. Many of them are specifically geared towards newcomers. These programs are designed to help immigrants and refugees integrate into a new society, make friends, improve their English language skills, and gain work experience that will be useful in the future.

Goals of volunteer programs for newcomers

The main goal of volunteer programs for newcomers is to facilitate the adaptation process. These programs help newcomers in many aspects of life in a new country, including

  • Get to know the culture and customs of Canada.
  • Develop language skills. Many programs offer opportunities to communicate in English, which is important for integration.
  • Meet people from different cultures and nationalities and build friendships.
  • Many programs provide the opportunity to gain practical experience in various fields, which is very useful for future employment.

Volunteer organizations

There are several key organizations in Calgary that offer volunteer programs for newcomers:

  • Immigrant Services Calgary provides a wide range of services for immigrants, including volunteer programs. They offer opportunities to participate in various projects that facilitate the integration of newcomers into society. Programs include training, job search support, and social activities.
  • Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS)** supports immigrants and refugees by offering volunteer programs that help people find their place in a new country. Volunteers work in a variety of areas, including language instruction, cultural activities, and administrative support.
  • The Calgary Public Library also has programs for newcomers, including language clubs and cultural events. Volunteers help to organize these events and also participate in English language learning programs.

Types of volunteer programs

Volunteer programs for newcomers differ in format and content:

  • Language support programs usually include language clubs or English classes where newcomers practice their communication skills with native speakers. Volunteers act as mentors or assistants to help participants improve their pronunciation and grammar.
  • Social events and cultural exchanges are designed to introduce new residents to Canadian culture. These include festivals, dinners, excursions and other similar events. Volunteers help to organize these events, which allows them to get involved in the local community.
  • For those who have certain professional skills, there are programs that allow them to use these skills for the benefit of the community. This can be working for non-profit organizations or participating in projects related to your profession. This way, you will also gain local experience, which will be a great addition to your resume.

How newcomers can join volunteer programs

Becoming a volunteer is very easy:

  • Contact local organizations such as Immigrant Services Calgary or CCIS to find out about available opportunities. You can do this by phone or by filling out applications on their websites.
  • Many organizations hold information sessions for newcomers to learn more about volunteer opportunities.

If you want to quickly integrate into the local society, have free time and want to help the community, volunteering is the best option for you. Thanks to the numerous programs and organizations that support immigrants and refugees, everyone has the opportunity to find their place in a new country and contribute to the development of the community.