The Host Program is a friendship program designed to help newcomers overcome the stress of moving to a new country by matching them with volunteers who are familiar with Canadian ways. The volunteers will help newcomers learn about available services, practice English, develop network, and participate in community activities.
Eligibility:
For Volunteers:
- Permanent residents or Canadian citizens who are well established in the community
- Must be over 18 year old and fluent in English
For Newcomers:
- Permanent residents of Canada or Convention refugees
- Must live within Northeast quadrant of Toronto
Are you a CANADIAN or established permanent resident who would like to
- Volunteer your time to build a better community;
- Share your knowledge or your experience;
- Learn more about different ethnic groups
Are you a NEWCOMER who is looking for a chance to
- Practice English;
- Meet friends and develop a social network;
- Learn more about your community
If YES, then you should join the Host Program.
Each match is expected to meet for 1-2 hours a week, for a minimum period of 6 months. CICS is offering the following type of matches to suit the different needs of newcomers:
Type of Host Matches
1. Friendship Circle
- Friendship support for activities such as shopping, sport events, restaurant dining, interest classes or movies;
2. English Conversation Circle
- Assist newcomers practice conversational English in a relaxed social setting;
- Conversation circle can take place at a local library, community centre, or at a mutually agreed location.
3. Mentorship
- Job search strategies, resume writing, professional accreditation guidance;
- Volunteer acts as mentor to provide guidance and motivation to newcomers. If available, we will try to match newcomers with volunteers in their same profession.
Form of Match
- One-to-One
- One-to-Many
- Many-to-Many (e.g. Family -to-Family)
Commitment of a Volunteer/Newcomer:
- Newcomers and volunteers are expected to meet for 1-2 hours a week, for a period of 6 months to a year
- Both newcomers and volunteers must complete the initial application/pre-screening process
- Both newcomers and volunteers must complete the exit interview to help CICS evaluate the Host Program.
- Volunteers are strongly encouraged to attend different volunteer training sessions throughout the year and criminal background check is mandatory.
How to Get Involved?
Contact: Rose Chiu at 416-293-4565, ext.117 or rose.chiu@cicscanada.com.
For More Information
Click here to download a Newcomer Information Pamphlet
Click here to download a Volunteer Information Pamphlet