What You Will Do
- explore and learn more about your local community by participating in events and activities
- visit local community resources to learn more about Canadian culture, history and government systems
- meet other newcomers
- practice English in informal Conversation Circles
- connect with an ISSofBC volunteer in a social setting to learn about Canadian culture, practice English and develop new friendships
- volunteer in your community to gain Canadian experience
- build confidence and become an active member of Canadian society
“At ISSofBC I have found a sense of belonging. Not only has it been a means for me to gain experience in a field I want to continue in, but I have made friends in the process. It has truly enriched my experience as an immigrant and I expect it to be foundational to my future in Canada.” – Lynn Liu–Tri-Cities
You can join if you are:
- Permanent resident
- Protected Person as defined in S. 95 of IRPA
- Individuals who have been selected to become permanent residents, and who have been informed by a letter from IRCC
- Live-in Caregiver or Temporary Foreign Worker
- Provincial nominees who are still awaiting a letter of approval for permanent residency from IRCC
- Naturalized Canadian citizen
- Priority given to newcomers who have been in Canada five (5) years or less.
Locations Available
Activities
- field trips to learn about community services and activities
- participation in Conversation Circles
- connect with a Settlement Mentor
- access volunteer opportunities
- workshops on various topics
Newcomer Support
Here are a few more resources to support your settlement journey.
Success Story
Volunteer mentor learns listening is what counts
Omar Illsley's understanding of his role as a volunteer settlement mentor was tested during his seven-year mentoring relationship.
Read moreContact us
Vancouver-Richmond:
volunteer.vanrich@issbc.org
Burnaby:
volunteer.burnaby@issbc.org
Coquitlam (Cottonwood):
volunteer.cottonwood@issbc.org
Coquitlam (Lincoln):
volunteer.lincoln@issbc.org
Langley:
volunteer.langley@issbc.org
Maple Ridge:
volunteer.mr@issbc.org
New Westminster:
volunteernewwest@issbc.org