Financial Literacy
2024-06-28 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Vancouver) | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Join us for this informative workshop to get a better understanding of your finances. Achieve FINANCIAL FREEDOM through the knowledge and strategies that will be available to you in this workshop.
World System Builder is a community of financial professionals looking to educate individuals about their own finances and how to manage them. Our two guest speakers, Sedina Mensah & Yamila Franco, financial educators, are looking to share their knowledge with you!
In this workshop you will learn about:

Building a solid financial foundation
Setting financial goals
Managing debt
And so MUCH MORE!

Do not miss out on this opportunity to learn more about how to navigate the world of your personal finances.
Make sure to register: workshops@cvims.org

Women's Resilience Group
2024-06-28 13:00 - 15:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Join us for an upcoming opportunity to support and empower the women in our community! The Women’s Resilience Group offers a safe and supportive space where All women can come together to explore, heal, and grow.
Discover strategies for resilience and connect with other women in a welcoming environment filled with various engaging activities such as art, meditation, group walks, journaling, crafts, and much more. Whether you’re navigating personal challenges or simply seeking connection, this group is here for you.
Let’s uplift and empower each other as we navigate life’s journey together!
For questions or more information, please reach out to our Community Engagement Team at edi@cvims.org

Bastion Tour
2024-07-10 10:30 - 11:30 | Bastion Tour, 100 Museum Way, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9R 5J8, Canada
Nanaimo’s oldest building and most recognizable landmark.
Come with us to this guided tour of The Bastion building! Learn its history, its importance and its meaning for the Nanaimo area. Do not miss the chance of learning more about Nanaimo’s history, to see the Bastion building inside and out!
Meeting point is in front of the Nanaimo Museum entrance (100 Museum Way).
Make sure to REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org

How to - Canadian Citizenship
2024-07-11 17:00 - 18:00, 2024-09-18 17:00 - 18:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Are you ready to take the next step in your journey in Canada? Is applying for Canadian Citizenship overwhelming? We understand that the process can be stressful and confusing, join us for this Information Session on How to Apply for Canadian Citizenship! Get answers to all your questions, get all of the information required to make this process go as smooth as possible.
In this information session, you can expect to learn about:

Eligibility and requirements – are you eligible to start this process? What requirements might you be missing to start? You might be eligible and it is time to start this process.
Procedure – What is the process to achieving your Canadian Citizenship? Find out where to start, what to expect during this process, and what to do at each stage.
Studying for the Citizenship test – You have completed the application, now you need to ace that test! Find out how to study for this test, where to get some resources to better prepare yourself.
Preparing your documents – Learn about all the documents that you need to have ready in order to get it right from the beginning, to have enough time to gather them all, and to make sure you are not missing anything!
Fees – Find out about what the costs involved with the application.

Make sure you REGISTER for the session: workshops@cvims.org

Poverty Advocacy Nanaimo
2024-07-17 12:00 - 13:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Do not miss this chance to find out more about the non-profit organization that is making resources more easily available to those who will benefit the most! Find out about some of what these organization does, but more importantly, find out about resources out there that are available for you!
Poverty Advocacy Nanaimo (PAN) seeks to help people with low income/challenges by connecting them with available government resources, local programs, and other opportunities that could improve your standard of living.
In this information session you can learn about resources available to you, such as:

food
education
health
housing
and so much more!

This session will be facilitated by our special guest speaker, Sarah Pump, PAN Executive Director and Founder!
Make sure to register: workshops@cvims.org

Museum Tour
2024-07-19 10:30 - 11:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Are you familiar with the history of Nanaimo? Would you be interested in finding out more about this beautiful place we live in? Join us for this guided tour at the Nanaimo Museum where we will be learning about Nanaimo’s history, the Snyneymuxw people (Indigenous people from the Nanaimo region), and experience Coast Salish art in all its forms! Do not miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of this place!
Meeting point will be at the front of the Nanaimo Museum (100 Museum Way, Nanaimo, BC).
Make sure to REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org

Walk-In CRA Tax Clinic
2024-07-23 10:00 - 14:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Join us for an informative Walk-in CRA Clinic where clients can receive assistance and answers to their questions regarding the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Whatever your questions might be regarding the CRA, come join us and get some guidance and support.
What to Expect:

Taxes: Get clarity on tax filing requirements, deductions, credits, and deadlines, ensuring compliance with CRA regulations while maximizing your tax benefits.
Government Benefits and Credits: Learn about available government benefits, such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), GST/HST credits, and other income support programs, and how to apply for them.
GST/HST Guidelines: Understand the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) requirements for businesses and individuals, including registration, filing, and remittance procedures.
Pension Plans and Retirement Savings: Explore pension plan options, including the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs), and how they impact your financial future.
CRA My Account Assistance: Receive assistance with setting up and navigating your CRA My Account, a secure online portal where you can manage your tax and benefit information conveniently.

No registration required! Simply drop by during the clinic hours to speak with our knowledgeable CRA experts.
For further information please contact workshops@cvims.org

Scavenger Hunt
2024-07-26 10:00 - 13:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Let’s discover Nanaimo!
Join us for a day of fun, mystery, and excitement while we take on this scavenger hunt that will let you explore the Downtown Nanaimo area! Meet local establishments, enjoy some fun-spirited competition, discover some new favorite hidden treasures! Stay until the end to wrap up the fun with a potluck; we will all come together and enjoy some good laughs and food!
All ages are welcome!
Make sure to REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org

Five Acre Farm
2024-08-02 10:30 - 12:00 | Park Avenue Farm, 933 Park Avenue, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9R 4J3, Canada
Join us for a field trip filled with family fun!
Paired with Nanaimo Foodshare, come join us to this urban farm site in Nanaimo! The Five Acre Farm has been described as an educational urban farm and community classroom. Come with us and explore this community!

Learn about soil & wetlands
Learn about planting, farming, and growing your own food
Filled of hands-on activities for everyone in the family
Meet the bees
Enjoy some of the tasty harvest

For more information or to REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org
Transportation support is available!
Date: Friday, August 2nd, 2024
Time: 10:30am – 12:00pm
Location: 933 Park Avenue, Nanaimo, BC

Women's Health
2024-08-06 13:00 - 14:30 | BC, Canada
Join this information session to have your questions answered about health related questions that are women specific. Special guest – a professional and specialist in women’s wellbeing. This will be a safe space for women to ask questions they might have about health related issues and have access to information that is of crucial importance for overall wellbeing.
Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions!
REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org
Date: August 6, 2024
Time: 1:00PM
Location: Room 21, CVIMS office

Wildwood Ecoforest
2024-08-09 10:30 - 12:00 | Wildwood Ecoforest, 2929 Crane Road, Ladysmith, British Columbia, V9G 1C8, Canada
Come join us on this fieldtrip for the entire family!
Learn about the principles and practices of ecoforestry. In this fun and engaging trip you will learn about the work being done by the Ecoforestry Institute Society (EIS) and the property of Wildwood. Check out the nature, plants, forest animals and more!
More information or to REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org
Unfortunately, transportation is not provided for this event.
Date: Friday, August 9, 2024
Time: 10:30am – 12:00PM
Location: Wildwood Ecoforest – 2929 Crane Road, Ladysmith

Education Pathways
2024-08-14 17:00 - 18:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Are you a newcomer looking to upgrade your skills to succeed in Canada’s in-demand sectors? Are you looking to get hands-on experience or apply to a VIU Program?
This information session is for you! Join us and learn about VIU Pathways for Newcomers Program. Find out more information about what the program offers, if it is the right program for you, what are the requirements, and more!
VIU Pathways for Newcomers is for those who are looking to upgrade their skills to get into VIU Programs. Participants will learn career skills, get hands-on experiences, and will help you succeed in your journey.
REGISTER or more information – workshops@cvims.org
Date: Wednesday, August 14, 2024
Time: 5:00 – 6:30PM
Location: Room 21, CVIMS Office

Walk-In CRA Tax Clinic
2024-08-21 10:00 - 15:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Whatever your questions might be, come join us to receive guidance, assistance and answers to your questions regarding the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) in our Walk-In Tax Clinic
What to Expect:

Taxes: Get clarity on tax filing requirements, deductions, credits, and deadlines, ensuring compliance with CRA regulations while maximizing your tax benefits.
Government Benefits and Credits: Learn about available government benefits, such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), GST/HST credits, and other income support programs, and how to apply for them.
GST/HST Guidelines: Understand the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) requirements for businesses and individuals, including registration, filing, and remittance procedures.
Pension Plans and Retirement Savings: Explore pension plan options, including the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs), and how they impact your financial future.
CRA My Account Assistance: Receive assistance with setting up and navigating your CRA My Account, a secure online portal where you can manage your tax and benefit information conveniently.

No registration required! Simply drop by during the clinic hours to speak with our knowledgeable CRA experts.
For further information please contact workshops@cvims.org

Women's Health Info Session
2024-08-23 13:00 - 14:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
An information session about a new Women’s Mental Health Program!
This program is designed FOR YOU, BY YOU!
This will be a safe and welcoming space for you to share your thoughts and ideas, we want to hear them. Joining us, will be Amelie Blanchard & Pauline Goh, registered counsellors.
REGISTER: info@cvims.org
Date: Friday, August 23, 2024
Time: 1:00PM
Location: Room 9 at CVIMS

Family Sponsorship
2024-08-29 12:00 - 13:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Join our information session and learn about the Family Sponsorship program. Find out the eligibility requirements , the application process, and more.
If you are considering about being an sponsor for your family, learn about what the responsibilities are of an sponsor.
For more information or to REGISTER – workshops@cvims.org
Date – Thursday, August 29, 2024
Time – 12:00 – 1:00pm
Location – Room 21, CVIMS

Child Tax Clinic
2024-08-30 10:00 - 12:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Do you have questions about filling the Canada Child Benefit form? Do you know what the Child Benefit is? Do you have any other tax related questions?
Join this workshop and learn about the Canada Child Benefit, how to fill out the form. Also get answers to your tax-related question from a professional, a person from Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Special Guest – Lance Vaillancourt
REGISTER: info@cvims.org
Date: Friday, August 30, 2024
Time: 10am – 12pm
Location: CVIMS Office

Employment Standards
2024-09-11 16:30 - 18:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Come join this information session and learn about the Employment Standards Act (ESA). If you are a worker in BC, this session is for you!

Learn about your rights and responsibilities as an employee – overtime, vacation time, getting fair pay, statutory holidays
Familiarize yourself with the ESA – what is the act for, who is it for, how does it apply to you
Learn about fair treatment and fair working conditions

Come to learn more!
REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org
Date: September 11, 2024
Time: 4:30 – 6:00PM

Refugee Claim Process
2024-09-18 12:00 - 13:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Join us for an informative workshop designed to guide you through the process of claiming Refugee status. This session offers valuable information into the steps, requirements, and expectations involved in becoming a refugee.
What to expect:

Introduction to Refugee Status: Learn about the legal framework and definitions surrounding refugee status, understanding your rights and obligations.
Eligibility Criteria: Explore the criteria and conditions necessary to qualify for refugee status in Canada, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding of your eligibility.
Documentation Requirements: Gain clarity on the essential documents and evidence needed to support your refugee claim, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the application process.
Navigating the Application Process: Receive guidance on how to complete the refugee application, understanding the procedures, timelines, and potential challenges along the way.
Q&A Session: Have your questions answered by our knowledgeable facilitator

Date: September 18, 2024
Time: 12:00 – 1:00PM
More information and registration: workshops@cvims.org

Back 2 School
2024-09-20 11:00 - 13:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Children are not the only ones that need to get ready for the new school year. If you are a parent and need some guidance on navigating the Canadian school system, or maybe are looking for ways to help your child succeed in their academic life, this is the workshop for you!
Our Back2School session will give you all the information you, as a parent, will need to understand the school system in Canada. Learn about parent-teacher conferences, homework, school closures, bell schedules, report cards, and so much more!
This will also be a great opportunity for you to get to know some tools and strategies on how to help your child succeed in their learning! From our special guest, Shaina from Literacy Central Vancouver Island, learn about some tools and strategies on how to help your child succeed in their learning!

REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org
Date: Friday, September 20
Time: 10:30am – 1:00pm
Location: Room 10, CVIMS Office

CRA Tax Clinic
2024-09-25 10:00 - 16:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Whatever your questions might be, come join us to receive guidance, assistance and answers to your questions regarding the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) in our Walk-In Tax Clinic
What to Expect:

Taxes: Get clarity on tax filing requirements, deductions, credits, and deadlines, ensuring compliance with CRA regulations while maximizing your tax benefits.
Government Benefits and Credits: Learn about available government benefits, such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), GST/HST credits, and other income support programs, and how to apply for them.
GST/HST Guidelines: Understand the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) requirements for businesses and individuals, including registration, filing, and remittance procedures.
Pension Plans and Retirement Savings: Explore pension plan options, including the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs), and how they impact your financial future.
CRA My Account Assistance: Receive assistance with setting up and navigating your CRA My Account, a secure online portal where you can manage your tax and benefit information conveniently.

REGISTER workshops@cvims.org
APPOINTMENTS LIMITED

Intro to Canadian Government
2024-09-27 10:00 - 12:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Do you know what the difference is between the Provincial and the Federal government? Are you confused about what their roles are?
Come to our information session and learn what you need to know about how the Canadian government works. Understand the different roles they have and what their responsibilities are. You will also gain some knowledge on the different services that are provided by each sector of the government. Have your questions answered.
REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org
Date: Friday, September 27, 2024
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Location: Room 10, CVIMS office

Women's Support Circle
2024-10-04 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-10-11 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-10-18 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-10-25 10:00 - 12:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Join us for a heartfelt Women’s Support Circle where we invite you to share your unique experiences through the lens of photography. This workshop offers a safe and supportive space to connect, reflect, and express your journey.
In this interactive circle, participants will have the opportunity to showcase their own photographs and share the stories behind them. Whether it’s a moment of triumph, a challenge overcome, or simply a snapshot of daily life, each image tells a story worth sharing.
No prior photography skills are necessary—just yourself and your life stories.
Come as you are, and let’s celebrate our journeys together.
We look forward to creating a warm and inspiring space for all women to connect and share!
REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org

Pathways to Permanent Residency
2024-10-04 14:00 - 15:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Join us for an informative session on Pathways to Permanent Residency in Canada!
Whether you are just getting the process started or are looking for some useful tips on navigating the immigration process, this session is for you!
We are excited to welcome a special guest, an experienced immigration lawyer who will provide expert insights into various immigration options available to individuals and families. From Express Entry to provincial nominee programs. This session will cover essential information and answer your questions.
This is a fantastic opportunity to gain clarity on the process, understand eligibility requirements, and learn about the resources available to support you on your journey to permanent residency in Canada.
Don’t miss out! Reserve your spot today!
REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org

CRA Tax Clinic
2024-10-15 09:00 - 16:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Whatever your questions might be, come join us to receive guidance, assistance and answers to your questions regarding the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) in our Tax Clinic
What to Expect:

Taxes: Get clarity on tax filing requirements, deductions, credits, and deadlines, ensuring compliance with CRA regulations while maximizing your tax benefits.
Government Benefits and Credits: Learn about available government benefits, such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), GST/HST credits, and other income support programs, and how to apply for them.
GST/HST Guidelines: Understand the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) requirements for businesses and individuals, including registration, filing, and remittance procedures.
Pension Plans and Retirement Savings: Explore pension plan options, including the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs), and how they impact your financial future.
CRA My Account Assistance: Receive assistance with setting up and navigating your CRA My Account, a secure online portal where you can manage your tax and benefit information conveniently.

REGISTER workshops@cvims.org
APPOINTMENTS LIMITED

Healthy Smiles
2024-10-16 17:30 - 18:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Join us for an informative session on everything you need to know about the Canadian Dental Care Plan! We understand the importance of access to essential services and that navigating this might be challenging; in this session, we will try to answer your questions as much as possible and make sure you understand the application process, eligibility, and other important facts.
What to expect:

Eligibility: find out what the criteria is to be eligible to apply for coverage.
Understanding coverage: Learn about the what services are covered under this new plan
Application Guidance: Find out the process on how to apply for the benefits and services provided under the CDCP.
Available CDCP providers: Learn where and how to find dental care providers that provide care under the Canadian Dental Care Plan.

Do not miss the opportunity to gain valuable information for a brighter, healthier SMILE 🙂
Also, you will not want to miss the opportunity to have MP Lisa Marie Baron give a more in-depth explanation on what this new program entails.
Make sure to REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org

Diwali Celebration
2024-10-19 14:00 - 16:00 | Vancouver Island Regional Library, 90 Commercial Street, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5G4, Canada
Come join us for an afternoon filled with dance, crafts, and fun!
Celebrate with us the Festival of Lights, a Hindi tradition that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and marks the start of new beginnings. This event is open to everyone, all ages are welcome!
