CVIMS - Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society

Art Therapy
2025-01-17 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Vancouver) | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
This workshop is designed to help you explore and express your emotions through creativity in a safe and supportive environment. The 8-week Art Therapy workshop is a drop-in group that is open to all skill levels. There will be a new theme explored each week with the guidance from Amélie Blanchard, a Registered Art Therapist and Pauline Goh, Clinical Counsellor.
Dates: Fridays from January 17 to March 7, 2025
Time: 10am – 12pm
Interested? REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org
Look at the themes for each week:

January 17: Goals and Visions
January 24: Stress Management
January 31: Boundary Setting
February 7: Anger Management
February 14: Couples Communication
February 21: Grief and Loss
February 28: Self -Care
March 7: Women’s Wisdom Circle

Youth Art Club
2025-01-16 17:00 - 19:00, 2025-01-09 17:00 - 19:00 | Bastion CVIMS, 103 - 235 Bastion Street, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9R 3A4, Canada
Come join us to this fun and safe space where you can explore your creative side. The Youth Art Club is a great way for you to spend your free time, make some new friends, get creative, and enjoy some free snacks and drinks!

🎨 Art Fun: Enjoy drawing, painting, and crafting. We have all the supplies you need!

🎲 New Friends: Meet new people with similar interests

🎬 All Welcome: Whether you are a pro or a newbie, all skill levels are welcome!

🕹️ And More: We also have special events and activities. You will always find something new and exciting!

REGISTER: https://forms.office.com/r/6Xf3tUNWX5
Day: Every Thursday from January 9 – March 27, 2025
Time: 5 – 7pm
Location: 235 Bastion Street, Room 205

CRA or Service Canada?
2025-01-16 10:00 - 12:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Do you know the difference between the Canada Revenue Agency and Service Canada?
Come to our information session and learn what is the difference between these service providers. Understand the difference between the roles and responsibilities each organization has to better navigate the Canadian government.
Topics include:

Introduction to Service Canada – services related to employment, pensions, insurance, social programs.
Overview of the Canada Revenue Agency – taxes, benefits, enforcement
Understanding which agency to contact for specific services
Practical tips on navigating both agencies

Make sure to REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org
Date: Wednesday, January 15, 2024
Time: 5-7pm

Career Cruising
2025-01-15 17:00 - 18:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Thinking about the future? Are you unsure of what you want to be when you grow up?
Come to out Youth Lounge designed to introduce you to different professions and help guide you into the future that YOU want and is right for you! This lounge will feature weekly meeting with special guests that will talk about their own career paths.
To register SWIS@cvims.org
Open to youth grades 7 – 12.

Library Youth Club
2025-01-13 17:00 - 19:00, 2025-01-06 17:00 - 19:00 | Vancouver Island Regional Library, 90 Commercial Street, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5G4, Canada
Are you looking for a fun way to spend your free time? Join our Library Youth Club and dive into a world of creativity, games, and movies!

🎨 Art Fun: Enjoy drawing, painting, and crafting. We have all the supplies you need!

🎲 Board Games: Play cool board games with your friends. We have many games to choose from!

🎬 Movies: Watch movies with us. We have the latest films and classic favorites!

🕹️ And More: We also have special events and activities. You will always find something new and exciting!

REGISTER: https://forms.office.com/r/6Xf3tUNWX5
Day: Every Monday, from January 6 – March 24, 2025
Time: 5 – 7pm
Location: Creative Commons – Nanaimo Harbourfront Library.

CRA Tax Clinic
2025-01-07 09:00 - 15:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Taxes? Got questions? Make an appointment to attend the CRA Tax Clinic and get one-on-one guidance, assistance and answers to your questions regarding taxes and the Canada Revenue Agency.
Get assistance on:

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.

Contact your Settlement Worker to REGISTER
APPOINTMENTS ARE LIMITED

Family Winter Fest
2024-12-23 13:00 - 15:00 | Nanaimo Ice Centre, 750 Third Street, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9R5S5, Canada
Looking for an activity this winter for the whole family to enjoy? Join us for the Family Winter Fest, an event filled with activities and fun for all ages. This a FREE event for all of those interested.
Make sure to save your spot!
Activities include ice skating, wreath making, ginger bread house, dancing, and arts & crafts, and so much more!
REGISTRATION FULL…! Space is limited for this event, at this time we are not taking more registrations.
Any further questions, reach out to SWIS@cvims.org

Artful Masterminds
2024-12-18 17:00 - 18:30, 2024-12-11 17:00 - 18:30, 2024-12-04 17:00 - 18:30, 2024-11-27 17:00 - 18:30, 2024-11-20 17:00 - 18:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Join us in this interactive workshop for youth ages 11 – 14 where participants will get the chance to explore creativity, build meaningful connections, and grow together in a supportive and fun environment!
In this workshop, you will have the opportunity to let your imagination flow through various activities while also having creating a safe space to have open conversations on some key topics such as managing anxiety, building positive peer relationships, practicing self-compassion, using positive self-talk, and learning effective time and stress management.
No experience required, for newbies and experts alike, this workshop welcomes everyone.
Come for the art, stay for the conversations, and leave feeling inspired and connected.
To REGISTER: swis@cvims.org

Library Youth Club
2024-12-16 17:00 - 19:00, 2024-12-09 17:00 - 19:00, 2024-12-02 17:00 - 19:00, 2024-11-25 17:00 - 19:00, 2024-11-18 17:00 - 19:00 | Vancouver Island Regional Library, 90 Commercial Street, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5G4, Canada
Are you looking for a fun way to spend your free time? Join our Library Youth Club and dive into a world of creativity, games, and movies!

🎨 Art Fun: Enjoy drawing, painting, and crafting. We have all the supplies you need!

🎲 Board Games: Play cool board games with your friends. We have many games to choose from!

🎬 Movies: Watch movies with us. We have the latest films and classic favorites!

🕹️ And More: We also have special events and activities. You will always find something new and exciting!

REGISTER: https://forms.office.com/r/6Xf3tUNWX5
Day: Every Monday, from September 16 – December 16, 2024
Time: 5 – 7pm
Location: Creative Commons – Nanaimo Harbourfront Library.

Hockey Game Night
2024-12-14 19:00 - 21:00 | Frank Crane Arena, 2300 Bowen Road, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9T 3K7, Canada
Join us for a FREE Hockey Game Night for an unforgettable night where you will experience the thrill of a live hockey game! Come with us on cheering the Nanaimo Clippers vs. Victoria Grizzlies!
Catch all the action, excitement, and fun! Whether you are a fan of the sport or you have not experienced the game before, this is an unforgettable experience.
SIGN UP REQUIRED – Do not wait, spots are LIMITED!
Click here to SIGN UP
📅 Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Frank Crane Arena – 2300 Bowen Road
🎯 Ages: 12-18 years old

VIU Education Pathways
2024-12-11 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 for hands-on experience or apply to a VIU Program? This information session is for you!
Join us to learn about VIU Education Pathways. Find out more information about what the program offers, the requirements, and more! VIU Pathways is a great program for those looking to upgrade their skills, learn new career skills, get hands-on experience, and want to succeed.
REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org

CRA Tax Clinic
2024-12-10 09:00 - 15:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Whatever your questions might be, come join us to receive one-on-one 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

Pathways to Permanent Residency
2024-12-04 17:00 - 18:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Are you looking into making your stay in Canada more permanent? 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 Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant 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

Hockey Game Night
2024-11-30 19:00 - 21:30 | Frank Crane Arena, 2300 Bowen Road, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9T 3K7, Canada
Join us for a FREE Hockey Game Night for an unforgettable night where you will experience the thrill of a live hockey game! Come with us on cheering the Nanaimo Clippers vs. Penticton Vees!
Catch all the action, excitement, and fun! Whether you are a fan of the sport or you have not experienced the game before, this is an unforgettable experience.
SIGN UP REQUIRED – Do not wait, spots are LIMITED!
Click here to SIGN UP
📅 Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Frank Crane Arena – 2300 Bowen Road
🎯 Ages: 12-18 years old

Financial Workshops - Credit History and & Bureau
2024-11-29 10:00 - 11:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
The financial world can be confusing and daunting. NO MORE! Join this informative workshop to improve your financial literacy knowledge. In this workshop, we will breakdown what credit history and the credit bureau are, so you can make better informed financial decisions.
In this workshop, you will:

Understand what the credit bureau does and why it is important for you.
Find out why your credit score matters and how it affects you financially.
Learn what factors influence your credit score.
Get tips on how to build and establish a strong credit score or improve it.
Learn about interest payments, how to manage your credit wisely to keep interest charges low.

This workshop is for you if you are looking to understand credit better and take charge of your financial future.
Make sure to REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org

Art Therapy Sessions
2024-11-28 17:00 - 19:00, 2024-11-21 17:00 - 19:00 | Bastion CVIMS, 103 - 235 Bastion Street, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9R 3A4, Canada
Are you 19-25 and seeking meaningful connections with others? Our art therapy sessions are the perfect place to meet peers who share your desire for creativity and personal growth!
Why Join Us?
✨ Connect with Peers: Build genuine relationships with others in your age group who are navigating similar life transitions. Share experiences and support one another through creative exploration.
✨ Collaborative Creativity: Engage in group art activities that foster teamwork, communication, and empathy. Discover the joy of creating together and learning from each other’s perspectives.
✨ Safe and Supportive Environment: Our sessions provide a welcoming space where you can express yourself freely and connect on a deeper level, all while developing valuable social and emotional skills.
✨ Fun and Relaxation: Enjoy creative exercises designed to relax and rejuvenate while strengthening bonds with fellow participants. Art becomes a bridge to deeper connections and shared experiences.
Why Art Therapy for Building Connections?
Art therapy is more than a creative outlet—it’s a powerful tool for forming meaningful relationships. Through collaborative projects and group discussions, you’ll enhance your social skills and build a network of supportive peers.
REGISTER: https://forms.office.com/r/6Xf3tUNWX5
SEATS ARE LIMITED!
Language Requirements: Sessions are held in English. There are no specific language requirements, however CLB Level 6 or higher is recommended.
Location: Unit 205 – 235 Bastion Street, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 3A4

Winter Driving in BC
2024-11-27 16:00 - 17:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
As winter approaches, it is important to be prepared for the unique driving conditions that presents in Vancouver Island. This session is for you whether you are new to Canada, new to winter driving, or just want a refresher on winter driving.
What to expect:

Understanding winter conditions – learn about the typical winter weather in BC and how these conditions might affect your driving experience.
Driving laws and regulations – everything from winter tire requirements and safe driving practices
Emergency preparedness – know what to do in case of an emergency on the road, what essential items to keep on your vehicle, and more.
Practical tips and resources – valuable tips for winter driving, such as how to manage skidding, proper braking techniques, and best practices for driving in snow and icy conditions. We’ll also share resources for further learning.

This information session will provide valuable information to everyone who wants to feel more confident driving during the winter months.
Make sure to REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org

One In Spirit Festival
2024-11-23 10:00 - 15:00 | VICC, 101 Gordon Street, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9R5J8, Canada
Celebrating unity in diversity. Experience, Learn, Connect.

Join the Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society for the “One in Spirit Festival,” a celebration of diversity, equity, anti-racism, and culture. This event offers a fantastic opportunity for the community to explore various cultures, ask questions, enjoy traditional dances, and create art together. CVIMS believes that by coming together, we can break down barriers and foster a deeper understanding of our differences, ultimately working toward a future free from racism.
This free festival will feature live music, dance performances, a community art project, interfaith dialogue, and a Global Village Fair, where different groups will share their stories, games, art, and cultural artifacts. Come be part of this enriching experience!
This is a community event. Everyone is welcome!

Book your FREE ticket here

Resumes - Employment Workshops
2024-11-22 13:00 - 14:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Are you looking to start a new career? Need help with the application process? Have never written a resume ? Join our Resume employment workshop and learn all you need to know to stand out to employers in the Canadian job market.
In this workshop you can expect to:

Learn what Resumes are and what information to include to target the job you are applying for.
Learn tips and tricks to make you stand out
Get feedback on your own resume

There is the option to attend this workshop remotely (via Zoom) or in-person. Make sure you specify your preference when registering.
REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org
