The Community Connections Program connects newcomers with their community as an important step in the settlement process by establishing social and professional networks so that they are engaged, feel welcome and at-home in Canada. Our programs are open to those who are Permanent Resident, Convention Refugee, on a special Minister´s Permit or possess an eligibility letter for Permanent Residence from IRCC.
For more information about any of our Community Connections programs, please contact Ian Sandie, Community Connections Lead, 519-255-1127 x224 / isandie@themcc.com
Community Engagement (Speaker) Series
Our Community Engagement Series provides participants with the opportunity to directly engage with members of the community representing a variety of organizations and resources. We invite guest speakers to introduce their areas of specialty and how they can help newcomers. Most of the time is dedicated to conversation and the chance for participants to ask questions and comment. Eligibility: Newcomers Location: 7651 Tecumseh Road East (MCC East End)
Our Community Engagement Series provides participants with the opportunity to directly engage with members of the community representing a variety of organizations and resources. We invite guest speakers to introduce their areas of specialty and how they can help newcomers. Most of the time is dedicated to conversation and the chance for participants to ask questions and comment.
Eligibility: Newcomers
Location: 7651 Tecumseh Road East (MCC East End)
Newcomer Youth and Children Groups
The Newcomer Youth and Children Groups provide a safe, fun and active environment in which children can develop new skills, self-esteem and friendships. Activities vary from week to week and are designed to be age-appropriate. Some of the activities include arts and crafts, group games, field trips, etc.
In addition to weekly social activities and games, the youth groups include:
- Homework Club – daily academic support, enrichment and recreation activities
- Employment Support for Youth – resume writing, job search, and interview practice
- Summer Group – learning new skills in a safe and nurturing environment
- Leadership Development- the Rotary Interact Club of the MCC in partnership with the Rotary Club of Windsor (1918).
- Field trips, guest speakers and community projects
Eligibility: Newcomer Youth
Location: 7651 Tecumseh Road East (MCC East End)
Women’s Arts & Crafts Group
The Newcomer Women’s Arts and Crafts Group provides skills development and language training through arts and crafts sessions, including basics of sewing, knitting, and quilting, and field trips connecting them to community resources or local services. In addition to the social and emotional benefits of this program, the newcomer women are able to make new connections, learn new skills, improve language ability, and gain self-confidence.
Eligibility: Newcomer Women
Location: 7651 Tecumseh Road East (MCC East End)
Time: Wednesday: 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Seniors’ Group
Every Friday afternoon, seniors gather at the MCC for an hour-long conversation circle session, where they make friends and learn about each other, Canadian culture, and health awareness, among other things. These sessions give seniors the opportunity to share their experiences with one another and escape the stress and pressure of settlement and social isolation. Based on the principle of lifelong learning, we consider the individual needs and interests of each participant and help them achieve their goals through senior-specific teaching methods to build seniors’ confidence and language skills.
Eligibility: Newcomer Seniors
Location: 7651 Tecumseh Road East (MCC East End)
Time: Friday: 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Lunch ‘n’ Learn
The Conversation Circle Lunch ‘n’ Learn provides an informal way for newcomers to practice English conversation skills. Our clients attend the group sessions to meet new friends, share ideas, develop the language and cultural understanding they need for their successful integration into Canadian society.
Eligibility: Newcomers
Location: 7651 Tecumseh Road East (MCC East End)
Time: Wednesday: 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Canada Connects
Canada Connects is a volunteer-based matching program that helps immigrants overcome the stress of moving to a new country. Volunteers familiar with Canadian ways help newcomers learn about available services and how to use them, practice official language, get contacts in their field of work and participate in the community. At the same time, Canadians learn about new cultures, other lands and different languages and they make new friends and strengthen community life.
Eligibility: Newcomers and Canadian Citizens
Location: Online/In the Community
Time: Partners set their schedule (flexible)
In partnership with:
