Immigration Partnership Highlights | |
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June 26, 10 AM - 1 PM - Online - Free
ON WEDNESDAY! - Join us for session three of the Brown Bag Lunch Learning Series!
This learning series is for front line staff of immigrant and other community service organizations. This session will provide insight into critical topics related to temporary residents, refugee claimants, international students, and people without status in Canada. Through engaging presentations, interactive information sharing, and live Q&A sessions, we're committed to giving you the edge to truly make a difference in the lives of newcomers.
Please share your challenges supporting clients in these areas and the questions you would like speakers to address here: Access to Services in WR Regardless of Immigration Status : Questions for Speakers
Feel free to share this invitation with colleagues or individuals who may be interested in attending.
Thank you for helping us spread the word! If you're unable to attend the webinar, we encourage you to register. Registrants will receive the recording of the session and resources afterward, ensuring you won't miss out on valuable insights.
Register Now!
Resources and Recordings from past Brown Bag Lunch Learning Series Session are available here: Brown Bag Lunch Learning Series
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We are excited to share the Waterloo Region Immigration Partnership's 2023-2024 Annual Report. This report is an important step in our goal to make Waterloo Region a stronger and more welcoming place through immigration. It marks the fourth year of our five-year plan and shows our ongoing commitment to building a vibrant community.
This report is a tribute to our amazing community partners and the growing immigrant community that makes Waterloo Region better. It highlights the diverse people and organizations in the WR Immigration Partnership and shows how we are working together to build a stronger and more inclusive community through immigration.
We invite you to read the report and celebrate the progress we have made together. Our shared efforts are helping Waterloo Region become a better place for everyone.
Learn more and share: Immigration Partnership Annual Report 2023 - 2024
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Introducing our new brand 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 djoya@regionofwaterloo.ca
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Immigrant Survey Results & Snapshots | |
The Immigration Partnership conducted the Waterloo Region Immigrant Survey in June 2023, providing almost 1,700 immigrants the opportunity to share their experiences of living, working or studying in Waterloo Region and impact organizational and community change. Check out the reports released to date. | |
Submissions to Federal & Provincial Government | | |
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The Waterloo Region Immigration Partnership recently contributed a submission to the Federal Government outlining recommended federal investments in Budget 2024 across ministerial portfolios to meet the needs of immigrants and address the pressing issues faced by a fast growing population.
Read here: Submission to Government of Canada’s 2024 Pre-Budget Consultation
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Waterloo Region faces pressing challenges that limit the wellbeing of immigrants and others in our community. In setting Budget 2024, the Immigration Partnership urged the Ontario Government to increase investment in programs and services that empower immigrants to reach their full potential and contribute to a thriving community for all.
Read here: Ontario_Budget_Consultation_2024
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Public perceptions of immigration vary widely and are subject to deep fluctuations. They influence the experiences and successes of immigrants, and their desire to stay and contribute to a thriving, prosperous community. While opinions about the impact of immigration in Waterloo Region tend to be fairly positive, less favourable perceptions are held by a significant minority of the population. This report provides the highlights from local data.
Read the full report here: Public Perceptions of Immigration 2023
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Waterloo Region is set to grow to almost 1 million residents in the next 20 years, largely through immigration. This regional immigration forecast up to 2030 is a tool to support strategic, investment and service decision making and planning, to proactively meet the needs of a growing and changing population
Read the full report here: Forecast 2023 - 2030
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Immigration Partnership Resources | |
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Make your organization accessible to over 10,000 residents who don’t speak English or French by providing interpretation.
Use the "Interpretation Best Practices Checklist" here: Interpretation Checklist
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Explore antiracism resources and join our campaign at: www.racialequitywr.ca | |
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Get insights into recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and integrating the best immigrant talent with this new resource created with World Education Services.
Explore the Playbook: Waterloo Region Employer Playbook
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New to Waterloo Region? Our partners can help! | | |
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June 26, 5 - 8 PM, 466 Queen St S, Kitchener - Free Event
Eid Mubarak
Celebrate Eid at Schneider Haus! Join in fun activities like henna, a live Oud performance, light refreshments, and so much more!
Learn more
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June, different dates & locations - Free
Senior Month - Activities & Events
The City of Cambridge is offering different events and activities for Seniors Month. Join them and take part in the many FREE ways to stay active and stay healthy this June.
For more information visit: Recreation and Programs - 50+ - City of Cambridge
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Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s online survey on immigration levels is now open!
Your input matters! Share your views before June 30, and help build a stronger, more inclusive Canada.
Find the survey here and please, share it with your network: IRCC survey on immigration levels / Sondage d’IRCC sur les niveaux d’immigration
Available in English and French
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Building the future of hospital care, together!
Your input matters! Grand River Hospital and St. Mary's General Hospital are joining to Build the Future of Care Together. Provide your input about how a merged hospital can better serve the communities of Waterloo - Wellington.
Find the survey here and please, share it with your network: Building the Future of Hospital Care, Together
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November 25 -27, Hyatt Regency Hotel Vancouver - Hybrid
Pathways to Prosperity 2024 National Conference
The Main Conference will include plenary sessions, workshops, roundtable discussions, poster presentations, and enhanced opportunities to network with colleagues.
Learn more: Pathways to Prosperity 2024 National Conference
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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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Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) announces 2024 funding application deadlines
OTF has published the 2024 deadlines for their Capital Grant and Youth Opportunities Fund, as well as their Seed and Grow grants.
Deadlines to submit applications:
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Applications are open for the Enabling Accessibility Fund!
This funding opportunity aims to make communities and workplaces across Canada more accessible for persons with disabilities. It will fund projects that create more opportunities for persons with disabilities to take part in community activities, programs and services, and access employment.
Virtual information sessions will be hold to provide an overview of the application process for organizations interested in applying for funding.
Submit your application by: July 23, 2024
Learn more: Enabling Accessibility Fund – small projects
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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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Navigating the Ontario Healthcare System toolkit
The Navigating the Ontario Healthcare System toolkit is a youth-driven resource tailored for newcomers to Canada settling in Ontario. It is meant to help youth who have newly come to Canada and are living in Ontario understand how to get healthcare.
Explore the toolkit here: Navigating the Ontario Healthcare System Toolkit - N4 - National Newcomer Navigation Network
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La Communauté en Français | | |
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Le lancement de uMetropolis approche à grands pas
uMetropolis est une plateforme d'apprentissage en ligne visant à relever les défis actuels et futurs liés à la migration, à l'intégration, à l'inclusion et à l'histoire du Canada. uMetropolis est accessible, permettant aux utilisateurs de s'engager dans la plateforme de n'importe où et à n'importe quel moment.
Découvrir le catalogue: uMetropolis FR - ACS Metropolis
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26 Juin, 11 h - Online - Free
Régime canadien de soins dentaires
Ce webinaire est conçu pour soutenir les praticiens qui travaillent dans les services aux immigrants et aux réfugiés. Il sera organisé par la communauté de pratique nationale en ligne: Réseauetab.org et présenté par le personnel de Service Canada. Au cours du webinaire, vous en apprendrez davantage sur le nouveau Régime canadien de soins dentaires et ses critères d'éligibilité. Nous sommes également disponibles pour répondre à vos questions lors de la séance questions-réponses.
Inscrivez-vous ici
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New episode! - Behind the Business podcast
The Behind the Business Podcast is a weekly podcast created by the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce that highlights the important people and issues in Waterloo region and in our community. Business and community leaders share their thoughts on the issues that affect the region and business community.
Don't miss the latest episode with Brian Bazely, Co-Founder of Driverseat: Behind the Business Podcast
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June 25, Online - Free
Startup Business Basics
Starting a new business venture? Learn the necessary steps to start your business! Learn how the Waterloo Region Small Business Centre can help you. The information in this webinar is focusing on starting a business in Waterloo Region and will be covering provincial and municipal regulations. You can still benefit from this webinar if you plan to start your business outside of the Waterloo Region.
Register Now
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June 27, 1 - 2:30 PM - Online - Free
Business Plan 101
Learn why a business plan is important for your business success and the steps to complete your own! Why have a business plan? A business plan is a roadmap for your business that outlines goals and details how you plan to achieve those goals.
Register Now
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June 26, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM, In-person & Online options - Free
Grand Valley Construction Association Path to Employment Program - Information Sessions
Grand Valley Construction Association Path to Employment Program will provide job seekers with an enriching five-week hands-on training series, followed by a four-week work placement in the construction industry.
Register here to attend in person
Register here to attend the virtual session
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Grow your Skills with Google Career Certificates!
Scholarships are now available for Google Career Certificates! No experience required – just your passion and ambition!
Scholarships are available upon application – first-come, first serve – until 30 September 2024.
Learn more: Grow with Google - First Work
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National Newcomer Navigation Network (N4)
July 24, 1 PM - Online - Free
Unlocking Nurse Retention Success: Strategies for Internationally Educated Nurses
Join an engaging session to explore the new national nurse retention toolkit. Get essential guidance tailored to the unique considerations faced by nurses who received their education outside of Canada. Don’t miss this opportunity to transform nurse retention in your organization.
Register Now
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June 27, July 10 & 25 & August 8 & 15, at sunset, Waterloo Park Bandshell - in-person - Free
Movies in the park
Movies in the Park return to Waterloo Park for summer 2024! Bring a blanket and your favourite snacks and join these fun and free outdoor movie nights.
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June 29 & 30, 11 AM - 4 PM, outside 44 Gaukel, Kitchener - in-person - Free
Indigenous Art Market
Over 60 Indigenous vendors together in one place! Find a mix of beadwork, jewelry, prints, paintings, apparel, books, candles, stickers and more!
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July 1st, 4 - 10 PM, Waterloo Park West (near the bandshell) - In-person - Free
Community Picnic
Spend the afternoon on the west side of Waterloo Park with local artists, food trucks, giant games and more at the July 1 Community Picnic. At 10 p.m. a spectacular LED drone show will light up the sky to finish off the night.
Learn More
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July 12 - 14 - Waterloo Park
Kultrun World Music Festival
This festival is a free, family-friendly event that attracts both visitors and residents alike. The purpose of the festival is to bring together top talent from around the world to help celebrate diversity.
Learn more
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July 28, 120 Shade St., Cambridge
Emancipation Day 2024
Join Rhythm & Blues Cambridge for and unforgettable day filled with music, joy, and community spirit. Celebrate freedom, unity, and culture!
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SAVE THE DATE - August 23 & 24
Caribana Ignite
Join the Caribbean Canadian Association of WR (CCAWR) to experience the tradition and rick tapestry of the Caribbean heritage right in the heart of Kitchener.
Stay tuned!
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Thursdays until August 29, 7 - 11 PM, 75 King St S, Waterloo - Free
Salsa in the Square
Enjoy free lessons, live music and dancing. All ages and ability levels are welcome, no partner or experience needed!
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June 27 & July 25, 10AM - 1 PM, 150 Main St., Cambridge - In-person - Free
Strategic Resume Writing Workshop
Suitable for seasoned professionals, new immigrants, or if you already have a resume. This workshop will dive deeper into systems used to shortlist resumes and tailor them to stand out.
Register Now
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July 9, 10AM - 1 PM, 20 Weber St. East, Kitchener - In-person - Free
Strategic Resume Writing Workshop
Suitable for seasoned professionals, new immigrants, or if you already have a resume. This workshop will dive deeper into systems used to shortlist resumes and tailor them to stand out.
Register Now
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July 15 - 18, 4 - 7 PM, 85 Queen St. North, Kitchener - In-person - Free
Let's Talk Summer Camp
Free program for newcomer youth ages 14 -21 focused on career guidance.
For more information contact: letstalk@kwmulticultural.ca
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Mondays, until August, 6 - 8 PM - 645 Westmount Road E, Kitchener - In-person - Free
Tutoring Program for Grade 3-12
Muslim Social Services of KW in collaboration with Camino are offering tutoring for a variety of subjects such as Math and English.
Register Now
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August 12 - 16, 1 - 5 PM, 85 Queen St. North, Kitchener - In-person - Free
Let's Talk Summer Camp
Free program for newcomer youth ages 14 -21 focused on career guidance.
For more information contact: letstalk@kwmulticultural.ca
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From September - October - In-person - Free
We Belong – Introduction to Photography for Newcomer Seniors
In this introductory photography program, newcomers 55+ will learn basic photography skills and capture what belonging means to them through a camera lens.
For more information visit: Central Library: Introduction to Photography for Newcomer Seniors
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