In our Community Connections programs, volunteers contribute to the settlement and well being of immigrants and refugees to Canada. Other than traveling to another country, there is no better way to gain cross cultural awareness and understanding. 

CANADIAN MATCHING

A volunteer is matched with a newcomer for community and cultural orientation as well as English practice. Activities may include: visiting, sightseeing, grocery shopping, taking the bus, etc. The volunteer’s friendship and support provides the newcomer with invaluable assistance with settling in their new home.
The volunteer goes to the newcomer's home once a week, on a day and at a time that is mutually convenient. Volunteers are asked to commit for 6 – 12 months. Any newcomer refugee family is eligible.

COMMUNITY HOST MATCHING

Volunteers are matched with newcomers who speak the same language and are from the same ethnic community, shortly after the newcomer’s arrival to Saskatoon. Volunteers help welcome the newcomers, introduce them to their ethno-community and provide cultural orientation.
The volunteer goes to the newcomer's home once a week, on a day and at a time that is mutually convenient. Matches typically meet once a week for approximately 6 weeks.All newcomer refugee families are eligible.

YOUTH STUDY GROUP 

Volunteers work together to assist newcomer high school youth with their schoolwork and with cultural orientation. Volunteering occurs after school, at various high schools in the city. The volunteer schedule follows the school year.

COMMUNITY GARDEN

Provides garden space for immigrants, refugees and community residents living in the Meadowgreen neighbourhood. Garden space is allotted to interested individuals and families to grow affordable and nutritious food. This program provides opportunities for residents of the community to come together in a familiar environment and get to know each other as neighbours. It is located at Fred Mendel Park and is only open to residents of Meadowgreen.

CONVERSATION CIRCLES

Adult, youth and child newcomers (minimum of 4 participants) gather to practice the English language and learn about Canadian culture. Led by volunteers, the circles run year-round in various locations in the community.  This is available to any newcomer who is a permanent resident. Held at Open Door (247 1st Ave N location) as well as in the community.

Mobile Conversation Circles provide the opportunity for participants to practice the English language and learn about Canadian culture within participant's homes. Often a group of friends or families that are comfortable being in each other's homes are participants in these types of circles. Circles are held in both the evenings and in the afternoons.

DISCOVERING CANADA STUDY GROUP

An 8-week, specialized conversation circle where participants discuss things such as the geography, history, and the politics of Canada. This circle is held 3 times per year and space is limited, so please register early.

TRANSLATORS AND INTERPRETERS 

Volunteers provide interpretation and translation services, as well as  to government agencies,Saskatoon Health Region, schools, social services and other organizations. Scheduling depends on the particular situation, need and volunteer availability.

VOLUNTEER CONNECTIONS PROGRAM

Assists immigrants and refugees to find volunteer opportunities outside Open Door and within the city of Saskatoon to broaden their networks, practice their language skills and gain work experience. Any newcomer with permanent residence is eligible.

For more information, please click here or contact us