Canada Connects
What is Canada Connects?
- One-on-one and family matching in an informal setting.
- Needs-driven support for newcomers to help them understand the social, political, cultural, and economic context of their new community and become fully engaged in Canadian life.
- Cross-cultural interaction and learning to provide essential guidance early in the settlement process and enable volunteers to learn about the newcomer experience.
What are the areas of activity?
- Personal exchanges based on needs, interests and hobbies, including:
- Providing general orientation and support;
- Explaining how to navigate systems and public services;
- Developing life skills and offering advice to improve overall well-being;
- Attending or participating in a cultural or sporting event together.
- Informal language learning to practice and improve English and French skills, including:
- Building language skills outside an organized group, classroom or workplace;
- Dialogue focused on everyday interactions
- Personal assistance with pronunciation and grammar
Key Information
Time Commitment:
Recommend meeting schedule: 2 hours per week
Duration:
3 months to 1 year
Qualification:
Canadian Language Benchmark 4 or higher (written and spoken)
Have been in Nova Scotia for at least 18 months
Contact:
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Become a Volunteer with ISANS
At the General Orientation, you will learn about available volunteer roles, and the next steps to get started volunteering.
ISANS offices are wheelchair accessible, have barrier free washrooms, and a scent-free policy. If you have any questions about accessibility, please contact us at volunteer@isans.ca.
Please note: some of the ISANS volunteer roles require an intermediate to advanced English language level. This is because the roles support:
- newcomers with beginner English levels who wish to be matched with someone who can help them practice their English
- newcomers with a wealth of experience who seek insight into the Canadian workplace and community culture
We do have some opportunities for beginner English language speakers as well!
Volunteers must be 18 years of age and older to volunteer. For those under 18, and enrolled in a high school co-op program, there may opportunities work placements at ISANS.