CVIMS - Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society

Summer Sports Club
2025-07-16 15:00 - 17:00, 2025-07-23 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Vancouver) | Wellington Secondary School, 3135 Mexicana Rd, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9T 2W8, Canada
Looking for a fun summer activity to do with friends? Come hang out at the school gym and join our Summer Sports Club!
Stay active this summer, make new friends, hang out with old ones. Play volleyball, basketball, badminton and more! No experience required, all skill levels are welcome!
Youth ages 12 – 18.
REGISTER: https://forms.office.com/r/6Xf3tUNWX5
At Wellington Secondary School Gym – July 9, 16, & 23
At Departure Bay School Gym – August 6 & 13

Interview Preparation
2025-07-16 16:30 - 17:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Join us for a workshop that will leave you with essential knowledge and skills to land the right job for you! Whether this is for your first job in Canada or you are looking to work on your interview skills, there is something to takeaway from this session!
This workshop will focus on:

Understanding the interview process – from how to prepare for the interview to the follow up post-interview.
Mastering common interview questions – learn what are some common interview questions and how to approach the answer to them
Some common tips and tricks for the interview jitters

Do not miss the opportunity to better your job search skills and succeed in the Canadian job market.
Make sure to REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org

SWIS Kids Camp
2025-07-17 09:00 - 13:00, 2025-07-18 09:00 - 13:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Looking for a fun and active way for your kids to spend part of their summer? Our SWIS Kids Camp is packed with exciting activities designed to keep children ages 8 to 10 engaged and entertained while making new friends in a supportive, multicultural environment.
From creative crafts and sports to games, dancing, and more — each day brings something new and fun! This camp is a great space for newcomer children to build confidence, connect with peers, and explore their creativity.
Register today – space is limited!Email: SWIS@cvims.org$20 refundable deposit required to secure your spot.

Art Therapy - Youth
2025-07-17 17:00 - 19:00 | Bastion CVIMS, 103 - 235 Bastion Street, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9R 3A4, Canada
Join us for a safe and welcoming space where creativity meets healing! Explore themes of Resilience and Growth, whether you are a seasoned artist or new to the creative process, no previous art skills are required – just an open mind and a desire to explore.
In this session you will have the opportunity to create, reflect, and heal, using art as a tool to navigate emotions and promote personal growth. Take this time to connect with yourself, tap into your creativity, and share with like-minded individuals. A guided therapy session with a registered art therapist.
Ages: 19 – 25
Register HERE

Library Youth Club
2025-07-21 17:00 - 19:00, 2025-07-28 17:00 - 19:00, 2025-08-11 17:00 - 19:00, 2025-08-18 17:00 - 19:00, 2025-08-25 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 May 12 – August 25
Time: 5:00 – 7:00pm
Location: Creative Commons – Nanaimo Harbourfront Library.

Workplace Culture
2025-07-24 12:00 - 13:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Are you navigating the Canadian job market and seeking to understand the workplace culture in your new country? Join us for an informative workshop focused on clarifying the expectations, norms, and dynamics of Canadian workplaces.
Workshop Overview:

Cultural Expectations in Canadian Workplaces: Explore the values, attitudes, and behaviors that shape the workplace culture in Canada, including concepts such as professionalism, collaboration, and diversity.
Employer Expectations and Norms: Gain clarity on what Canadian employers expect from their employees, such as communication styles, work ethic, punctuality, and teamwork, to ensure a smooth transition into the workforce.
Understanding Workplace Environment: Learn about the typical structure and dynamics of Canadian workplaces, including organizational hierarchies, team dynamics, and office etiquette, to adapt effectively to your new work environment.
Rights and Responsibilities: Understand your rights as an employee in Canada, including workplace safety, fair treatment, and protection against discrimination, as well as your responsibilities in upholding these rights.
Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity: Explore the importance of cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in Canadian workplaces, and how to contribute to a diverse and inclusive work environment that values and respects all individuals.
And More!

For more information & registration: workshops@cvims.org
Join us for this enriching session and embark on a successful career journey in your new home.

SWIS Pre-Teen Camp
2025-07-29 09:00 - 13:00, 2025-07-30 09:00 - 13:00, 2025-07-31 09:00 - 13:00, 2025-08-01 09:00 - 13:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
The SWIS Pre-teen Camp is the perfect summer opportunity for children ages 10 to 12 to explore new interests, build friendships, and have a ton of fun in a safe and inclusive space!
Campers will take part in a variety of exciting activities like games, sports, music, crafts, and team-building challenges — all designed to support confidence, creativity, and community. Looking to connect with others and enjoy a fun-filled summer experience, JOIN US NOW!
Limited spots available – register early!Email: SWIS@cvims.orgA $20 refundable deposit is required to reserve your spot.
Dates: July 29 – August 1

Summer Sports Club
2025-08-06 15:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-13 15:00 - 17:00 | Departure Bay School, 3004 Departure Bay Road, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9T 1B4, Canada

Cedar Weaving
2025-08-08 12:00 - 15:30 | British Columbia
Join us for a fun day filled with knowledge! Come to Saysutshun Island and participate in this hands-on experience led by knowledge keeper, David Bodaly. Learn about the culture and history of the land and its people through the materials and technique of Cedar Weaving. Traditional cedar weaving was and still is an important practice for Coast Salish Peoples. It is used to create various items like baskets, mats, and clothing, connecting people to their cultural heritage.
Transportation and activity are FREE for CVIMS clients!
SPACE IS LIMITED and PREREGISTRATION IS REQUIRED, no later than August 6th.
Date: Friday, August 8th, 2025
Time: 12:00 – 3:30pm
Register: workshops@cvims.org

VIU Pathways to Postsecondary
2025-08-12 17:00 - 18:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Join us for this information session on this program for anyone who needs to take Adult Basic Education (ABE) or English Language Learning (ELL) to get into VIU programs. A great program for those looking to upgrade their skills and succeed in Canada’s in-demand sectors!
You tell us what VIU program you want to take, and we help you make it happen!
REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org
Date: Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Time: 5:00 – 6:30pm
Location: In-person or Zoom

CRA Tax Clinic
2025-08-19 10:00 - 15:00, 2025-09-17 10:00 - 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

Workplace Safety
2025-08-27 16:00 - 17:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Join us for an information session on what you need to know about being safe at work! This session will cover essential knowledge and skills to ensure workplace safety in Canada, empowering you with the necessary tools to recognize and address potential hazards in the work environment.
Learn about safety rules specific to the workplace in British Columbia, who is responsible for those rules and employees safety, the right to refuse unsafe work, accidents at work and how to report them.
Don’t leave it to guess, learn from Helen Chandler, Industry and Program Specialist WorkSafeBC.
Register: workshops@cvims.org
Date and time: Wednesday, August 27, 2025 from 4:00 to 5:00pm

Family Lounge
2025-09-10 16:30 - 17:30, 2025-09-17 16:30 - 17:30, 2025-09-24 16:30 - 17:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
For parents and children ages 4 – 7 years old .
Join the SWIS team each week for an afternoon filled with fun! Enjoy crafts, games, music, and lots of fun!
Please REGISTER: swis@cvims.org
Every Wednesday, from September 10 – 24.
4:30 – 5:30pm

Resumes - Employment Workshops
2025-09-11 11:00 - 12:30 | 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

REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org

Youth Art Therapy Session
2025-09-18 17:00 - 19:00 | Bastion CVIMS, 103 - 235 Bastion Street, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9R 3A4, Canada
Come join this safe and welcoming space where creativity meets healing! Whether you are an experienced artist or new to the creative process, you can be part of this session where you will have the opportunity to create, reflect, and heal through art. Navigate emotions and promote personal growth, connect with yourself and like-minded individuals.
No previous art skills are required – just an open mind and a desire to explore.
Ages: 19 – 25
Date: Thursday, September 18
Time: 5:00 – 7:00pm
REGISTER: HERE

Art Therapy
2025-09-19 09:30 - 12:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
This 10-week workshop is designed to help you explore and express your emotions through creativity in a safe and supportive environment. The Art Therapy workshop is a safe group 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.
Time: 9:3 0am – 12:00 pm
Interested? REGISTER HERE

September 19 – Goals and Visions
September 26 – CVIMS Closed, no workshop
October 3 – Stress Management
October 10 – Healthy Boundaries
October 17 – Anger Management
October 24 – Communication Skills
October 31 – Grief & Loss pt. 1
November 7 – Grief & Loss pt. 2
November 14 – Self Care
November 21 – Courage & Resilience
November 28 – Cultivating Community
December 5 – Exploratory

Cover Letter - Employment Workshops
2025-09-25 11:00 - 12:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Our employment workshop series is back for another time!
Are you looking to start a new career? Need help with the application process? Have never written a cover letter? Join our employment workshop – Cover Letters 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 Cover Letters 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 or cover letter

To Register: workshops@cvims.org
