Community Connections
Being in a new place is hard especially when language is a barrier. The Community Connections Program helps to integrate Newcomers into Canadian lifestyle, providing them with social supports to ease the transition. Through a variety of group activities, Newcomers can:
- practice English
- learn about the community
- meet people from around the world
- share stories & even recipes
- attend an informative workshop
- go to an event
- be part of a walking group
- receive support in finding a job here in Canada
Are you:
- A Protected Person: Convention Refugee
- Economic Class: Skilled Worker, Business Immigrant, Live-In Caregiver
- Family Class: Newcomer connected by close kinship to family members in Canada
English Conversation Circles
The Conversation Circles give Immigrants an opportunity to practice their English in a comfortable, welcoming environment. They learn about Canadian culture with the help of Community Connections volunteers. Newcomers from all over the world and at different levels of language capability are brought together to discuss a variety of topics, have questions answered, share stories, and so much more!
Conversation Circles take place all across Durham Region, allowing Newcomers the chance to access groups in their area. Below is a list of Circles available:
Networking Group
The Networking Group provides a forum for Newcomers to interact with each other, providing support in their search for work in Canada. At times, job search can get frustrating and especially confusing to Newcomers who don't fully understand the job market, sectors, interview techniques, and job qualifications. Community Connections volunteers work with the group to facilitate discussion on the above topics and aid them in attaining their career goals.
The Networking Group meets every Tuesday night 6:00-8:00 pm at The Ajax Public Library. Every session is unique because the clients are constantly changing as they move on to find employment. If you are interested in sharing your employment search challenges and/or are willing to offer support to others, contact us!
Newcomer Community Kitchen
Can you think of something that brings people together, that all cultures have in common? FOOD! Most cultures pride themselves on their unique cuisine and are enthusiastic to share with others. By gathering to cook and eat we build a sense of community.
The Newcomer Community Kitchen is a client centred cooking class held at The Ajax Welcome Centre. Twice a month we get together to learn, cook, and share recipes from around the workld. Participants work together as a team to create new dishes, make new friends, practice English, and most importantly create a sense of community.
If you are interested in being a part of this group, contact us to register.
Click here for a collection of recipes from our past sessions
Walking Group
(Seasonal Activity)
There's nothing better then going for a stroll with your closest friends, enjoying the scenery, and chatting along the way. Well what if your new to Canada and have no one to walk with?
The Walking Group is similar to our Conversation Circles, but instead of sitting...you WALK! Community Connections volunteers arrange groups in different neighborhoods and Newcomers are welcome to join at anytime, weather permitting of course. The group practices their English, can meet new members of their community, and become more familiar with their surroundings, all while exercising!
Interested in becoming a Community Connections Volunteer?
Volunteers participating in the program are as diverse as the Newcomer clients. The Volunteers are an essential part of running our social programming. If you are a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident who is established and knowledgeable about your community, you could be a volunteer! You should also be open to learn about a variety of diverse cultures and willing to share your own cultural background and experience of Canadian society.
* All our volunteers must undergo orientation, training, provide references, and obtain a police clearance.
Volunteer Application Form
For more information or to register for any of our programs:
Contact us 905-686-2661