Services
The Network offers online workshops addressing issues identified by private sponsors. In addition, we are developing new services, including a monthly online Lunch & Learn series around sponsor-identified topics to provide an opportunity for information-sharing.
Since 2016, we have offered over 15 workshops chosen to meet immediate needs around issues of culture, housing, health and wellbeing, employment, education, ESL, and citizenship barriers and incentives, among others. Participants appreciate the practical tips, expert advice and counsel, and input from individuals with lived experience. They come to the workshops with questions and leave with information to better support those they sponsor. They learn about pitfalls to avoid, and access new ideas and new resources.
Registration opens 30 days prior to a workshop date.
Our 2022 series of workshops include:
Saturday, February 26, 10:00 am — 12:00 noon
Addressing settlement challenges in small and/or rural communities
- Two-hour online workshop focused on generating new thinking around problem-solving
- Learn more about how to find solutions and link to broader resources
- Explore issues such as housing, transportation, ESL and employment
- Join a breakout room following the workshop to connect, learn and share
Saturday, May 14, 10:00 am – 12 noon
Affordable Housing for Newcomers
- A two-hour online workshop focused on how to search for and secure housing that is financially viable for sponsorship groups in the first year and sustainable for newcomers at Month 13 and beyond
- Explore new and alternative solutions
- Join a breakout room following the workshop to connect, learn and share
Saturday, September 24, 10:00 am – 12:00 noon
Financial Planning for Newcomers
- A two-hour online workshop focused on helping newcomers become financially confident
- Learn best practices for financial management
- Understand how to provide guidance when funds are limited, while recognizing personal autonomy
- Acquire the tools to open the conversation around creating and managing family budgets
- Identify community resources for preparing tax returns
- Join a breakout room following the workshop to connect, learn and share
Saturday, November 12, 10:00 AM – 12:00 noon
Addressing Cultural Issues in Parenting Styles
- A two-hour online workshop focused on better understanding the culture and the legal implications of parenting in Canada
- Learn how to remain respectful of newcomers’ parenting styles while helping them understand child protection in Canada
- Acquire tools to open the conversation about family dynamics
- Join a breakout room following the workshop to connect, learn and share
Information-sharing
We share specific information with Network participants through regular emails. When you have something that might benefit others, you are encouraged to send it to info@refugeesponsornet.ca, and we will pass the information along to members. We send you information of interest as often as we receive it, highlighting upcoming events or the latest research.
Problem-solving
If you are looking for a mentor, or someone who has direct experience with a specific challenge you are facing, let us know by sending an email to info@refugeesponsornet.ca. We will do our best to connect you with a member who can help.