Calgary Catholic Immigration Society

10/15/2026

The spirit of Stampede isn't just for July! 🤠🐎

Our Skills Elevate program students recently had a unique opportunity to explore Calgary's rich Western heritage through a special CS-101 presentation by The Calgary Stampede Community Projects and Development Committee.

Students learned about the history, values, and traditions of the Calgary Stampede, along with the many ways to experience Stampede events and activities throughout the year. The presentation also highlighted affordable and accessible ways to connect with one of Calgary's most celebrated traditions.

The experience came to life with rodeo equipment, Western attire, and interactive props that gave students a hands-on look at Stampede culture. To make the day even more memorable, Harry the Horse, the official Calgary Stampede mascot, joined the fun alongside 2026 Calgary Stampede Princess Sarah O'Brien, creating plenty of smiles, photo opportunities, and meaningful connections.

It was wonderful to see our students engaged, asking questions, and learning more about an important part of Calgary's cultural identity.

A heartfelt thank you to the Calgary Stampede team for bringing the spirit of Western hospitality and community to CCIS!

Learn more about our Skills Elevate program and other services: https://ccisab.ca/skills-elevate/

10/15/2026

We’re Hiring!

CCIS is looking for passionate individuals to join our team and support newcomer communities in Southern Alberta.

👉Client Support Worker for Temporary Foreign Workers (TFW) - Apply by Friday, October 30th, 2026

Learn more on how to apply, here: https://ccisab.ca/work-with-us/

Discover Career Paths Tailored for Newcomers at CCIS. Be part of an organization that's making a difference in the lives of refuges.

10/14/2026

Ready to shake off the stress and have some fun? 🎶💃

Calling all migrant workers! Join us for Dance for Wellness, a fun and welcoming space to get active, enjoy a free meal, and connect with others in the community.

Whether you're trying Belly Dance for the first time or love moving to the upbeat rhythms of Zumba, everyone is welcome!

🩰All fitness levels welcome
🩰No experience needed
🩰Free to attend
🩰Light meal provided

📅 October 20 – Belly Dance | 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
📅 November 17 – Zumba | 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

📍 Pioneer Room, Banff Public Library, 101 Bear Street, Banff

Register today: By scanning the Qr code 🤳

Let's move, connect, and celebrate wellness together! 💃

10/14/2026

“I learned a lot from the CCIS STEM Workshop, and the knowledge and skills I gained helped me successfully secure a job. I also had the opportunity to meet wonderful people who were always willing to support and help one another while expanding my professional network.” — Alexander Aguirre.

If you're an internationally trained STEM professional looking to grow your career in Canada, the CCIS CS-STEM Workshop can help you build the skills, confidence, and connections needed to navigate today's job market.

This free, 4-week program will help you:
✅ Develop a personalized career action plan
✅ Learn how to market your transferable skills
✅ Strengthen your LinkedIn profile and networking strategy
✅ Explore how AI is reshaping the job market and job search process
✅ Prepare for interviews in industries beyond oil and gas

Delivered in a hybrid format, the workshop combines online flexibility with in-person support from professionals who understand both the STEM sector and the newcomer experience.

📅 Next Info Session: October 29, 2026
🚀 Next Cohort Begins: November 2, 2026

For more information or to register:
Vesna | [email protected] | 403.290.5121 | https://ccisab.ca/career-supports-for-newcomer-stem-professionals/

10/14/2026

Last week, our Senior Connections Program welcomed approximately 90 participants to a Full-Day Information Session at the Calgary Public Library - Central Location in recognition of National Seniors Day.

Throughout the day, attendees heard from specialists on seniors' benefits, housing options, scam prevention, Calgary Police Service (CPS) safety information, and chair yoga. Participants also had the opportunity to connect with community resources and one another while learning about supports available to older adults in the community.

The strong turnout and engagement throughout the day highlighted the importance of creating spaces where seniors can access trusted information, ask questions, and connect with local services. It was encouraging to see so many community members come together to learn, share experiences, and build new connections.

Learn more about our seniors services: https://ccisab.ca/senior-connections-program/

10/13/2026

We were proud to see CCIS staff presenting at the Canadian Ethnic Studies Association (CESA) Biennial Conference in Banff.

Drawing on their experiences working alongside newcomers and diverse communities, our team shared insights, promising practices, and lessons from the settlement sector. Their presentations sparked meaningful dialogue and brought community-based perspectives to conversations taking place across the conference.

A special shoutout to Ricardo Morales, Bozana Sljuka, Mohammed Yusuf Idriss, Lisa Degenstein, Dr Sinela Jurkova, Fleeha Ahmad, Jena Chamy, Jingzhou (Jo) Liu, Nkeiruka Azozie, Marion Christensen and Sabita Basnet for representing our organizations and the communities we serve. Thank you for sharing your expertise and helping advance conversations that matter to newcomers across Alberta.

Discover how we're helping newcomers build connections, access opportunities, and thrive in communities across Alberta. Visit:

https://ccisab.ca/

10/13/2026

🍁🍂 Gratitude was in full bloom at the Britannia Building during our Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) Program Thanksgiving celebration! 🧡💛🤎

Our LINC students created colourful autumn trees decorated with gratitude leaves and shared what they are thankful for as they build new lives and connections in Canada.

Learn more about our LINC program: https://ccisab.ca/language-instruction-for-newcomers-linc/

10/09/2026

As Thanksgiving approaches, please note that CCIS offices will be closed on Monday, October 12, 2026, and will reopen on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

This time of year offers an opportunity to slow down and appreciate the connections that support us through life's journey. Across our programs and communities, we are continually inspired by the determination of newcomers, the generosity of volunteers, the dedication of staff, and the many partners who help make our work possible.

Wherever and however you celebrate, we hope the long weekend brings time to recharge, connect with family and friends, and enjoy moments that matter most.

Wishing you a safe, restful, and happy Thanksgiving from all of us at CCIS. 🍂

10/09/2026

The Alberta Referendum is coming up, and understanding the questions on the ballot is an important part of making an informed decision.

We've put together a quick guide highlighting key information about the referendum, voting eligibility, and important dates: https://files.constantcontact.com/7d49c4fd901/46979cb9-87b2-4ccd-9ec5-59435f435b09.pdf?rdr=true

Read through to learn more and visit elections.ab.ca for official information.

10/09/2026

to a vibrant celebration of Chilean culture in Banff! 🇨🇱

Our CCIS Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) team, in partnership with Bow Valley Latin Community, the Town of Banff, and local donors, helped bring the community together for a day filled with traditional food, music, dance, and connection.

The celebration featured a traditional Chilean lunch and Cueca folk dance demonstrations, followed by a cultural festival with live performances, empanadas, completos, and plenty of community spirit.

More than 550 people participated throughout the day, including many new and existing TFW clients. One of the highlights was welcoming participants who travelled from Calgary, Whistler, and even Toronto to join the festivities.

We are grateful to our partners, supporters, and everyone who attended for making this celebration such a success. Events like these help create connections, celebrate cultural traditions, and strengthen community ties.

Learn more about our TFW services: https://ccisab.ca/temporary-foreign-workers/