CVIMS - Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society

English Club
2025-05-07 15:00 - 16:00, 2025-04-30 15:00 - 16:00, 2025-04-23 15:00 - 16:00, 2025-04-09 15:00 - 16:00 (America/Vancouver) | British Columbia
Are you looking for a safe space to practice English? Join our Youth English Club, weekly sessions on Wednesdays!
Enjoy fun games, free snacks, and make new friends while using English.
Wednesdays, from April 9 – June 18, 2025
3:00 – 4:00pm
Room 128, NDSS
To register or for more information, contact Eutah – emizushima@cvims.org

Health In Canada
2025-05-07 13:00 - 14:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Join us for this information session to understand medical services and accessing pharmacies. In this session you will gain valuable insight that will help you understand how the medical system works in Canada and how to access those services, as well as how to access pharmacies.
With a SPECIAL GUEST: Nicole Leung, Associate Owner, Pharmacist, NSL Pharmacy LTD
Wednesday, May 7, 2025
1:00 – 2:15pm.
REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org

Family Fun Soccer Day
2025-05-04 11:30 - 13:30 | British Columbia
CVIMS in partnership with Nanaimo City FC, Volunteer Nanaimo, St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church , and Indigenous Friendship Centres to bring you a day of family fun!
Join us for an afternoon filled with excitement, soccer games, and free lunch!
REGISTER – HERE
For more information, contact: swis@cvims.org

Reality Meets the Screen Opening Night!
2025-05-01 17:00 - 19:00 | Nanaimo Harbourfrount Library, 90 Commercial Street, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9R5G4, Canada
Celebrate the creativity and talent of young new artists in our community!
The Nanaimo Harbourfront Library is hosting an exciting art exhibition showing how young artists interpret and express their identities by the influence of the media. Presented in partnership with Volunteer Nanaimo and CVIMS.
Join us on opening night for an inspiring, family-friendly evening of creativity! Enjoy musical performances, interactive art, artists talks, and more!
For more information, contact emizushima@cvims.org

Volunteer Training with SWIS
2025-04-30 17:00 - 18:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
An 8-week program where you will develop essential leadership and volunteer skills! Join the SWIS team and start your volunteer journey!
In this training program you will get support in creating your resume and cover letter, receive guidance on volunteer placement. The program might be eligible for Grade 12 Elective Credits!
You will also receive:

A certificate of completion
First Aid & CPR Certificate.

For the last event, participants will plan and host a soccer tournament!
Offered for youth Grades 8-12
Every Wednesday from April 16 to June 4
5:00 – 6:30pm
For more information or to register: SWIS@cvims.org

One in Spirit Walk
2025-04-28 11:00 - 14:00 | Bowen Park Complex, 500 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9R 1Z7, Canada
Join Elder Randy Fred on a nature walk at Bowen Park, where you will get the chance of hearing his story and the cultural significance of National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is an opportunity to hear about the culture and heritage of Indigenous Peoples in your community, and connect with nature.
This is a safe space where everyone will be able to share their stories, enjoy good company, connect with nature, and learn more about your community!
Join us until the end for a potluck and sharing of food!
For more information & registration: community@cvims.org
Walk at Bowen Park – 11am to 12pm
Lunch at CVIMS office – 12:30pm to 2:00pm

Volunteer Training with SWIS
2025-04-23 17:00 - 18:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
An 8-week program where you will develop essential leadership and volunteer skills! Join the SWIS team and start your volunteer journey!
In this training program you will get support in creating your resume and cover letter, receive guidance on volunteer placement. The program might be eligible for Grade 12 Elective Credits!
You will also receive:

A certificate of completion
First Aid & CPR Certificate.

For the last event, participants will plan and host a soccer tournament!
Offered for youth Grades 8 – 12
Every Wednesday from April 16 to June 4
5:00 – 6:30pm
For more information or to register: SWIS@cvims.org

Temporary Foreign Workers Hiring Process
2025-04-16 17:00 - 18:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
An information session for employers looking to hire Temporary Foreign Workers!
Join us in this information session and learn more on the hiring process from a Licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, Evgeniya Bagina.
In this session you can expect to learn about:

Strategic pathways for hiring temporary foreign workers
Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) requirements and streams
Hiring temporary foreign workers under BCPNP Process
Recent program updates

Are you interested? Join us in person or online!
REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org

Volunteer Training with SWIS
2025-04-16 17:00 - 18:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
An 8-week program where you will develop essential leadership and volunteer skills! Join the SWIS team and start your volunteer journey!
In this training program you will get support in creating your resume and cover letter, receive guidance on volunteer placement. The program might be eligible for Grade 12 Elective Credits!
You will also receive:

A certificate of completion
First Aid & CPR Certificate.

For the last event, participants will plan and host a soccer tournament!
Offered for Youth Grades 8 to 12.
Every Wednesday from April 16 to June 4
5:00 – 6:30pm
For more information or to register: SWIS@cvims.org

English Club
2025-04-16 15:00 - 16:00 | British Columbia
Are you looking for a safe space to practice English? Join our Youth English Club, weekly sessions on Wednesdays!
Enjoy fun games, free snacks, and make new friends while using English.
Wednesdays, from April 9 – June 16, 2025
3:00 – 4:00pm
Room 128, NDSS
To register or for more information, contact Eutah – emizushima@cvims.org

CRA Tax Clinic
2025-04-15 09:00 - 15:00, 2025-03-18 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

Stronghold - Men's Group
2025-03-28 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-03-21 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-03-14 14:00 - 16:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Are you looking for a safe space to help you navigate the struggles or stress of everyday life?
We have partnered with The Men’s Centre to create a safe space for men to come together, share their struggles, connect with others, and learn how to deal with the hassle of everyday life. This is a space to build resilience, gain clarity, and create bonds with others that share the same ideals.
Weekly meetings from January 17 to March 28, 2025.
To register – aalfakosh@cvims.org

Art Therapy
2025-03-28 10:00 - 12:00 | 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 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: Every Friday, until March 28th.
Time: 10am – 12pm
Interested? REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org
Or just drop-in!

Youth Art Therapy Session
2025-03-27 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, March 27
Time: 5:00 – 7:00pm
REGISTER: HERE

Youth Art Club
2025-03-27 17:00 - 19:00, 2025-03-20 17:00 - 19:00, 2025-03-13 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

Library Youth Club
2025-03-24 17:00 - 19:00, 2025-03-17 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.

WorkSafe BC
2025-03-21 12:30 - 14:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Do not want to miss this information session!
Come join us for a session where you will gain essential knowledge on how to stay safe at work. Learn about WorkSafeBC – the organizations’ commitment to creating a healthier, safer workplace. Discover valuable resources, regulations, and injury prevention tips. Ensure your workplace is fully protected so you are too!
REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org

Art Therapy
2025-03-21 10:00 - 12:00 | 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 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.
March 21st, the topic is Courage & Resilience
Time: 10am – 12pm
Interested? REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org
Or just drop-in!

Hockey Game Night
2025-03-15 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!
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, March 15
⏰ Time: 7:00 – 9:30 PM
📍 Location: Frank Crane Arena – 2300 Bowen Road
🎯 Ages: 12-25 years old

Stress Busters
2025-03-14 15:30 - 16:30 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
In partnership with Island Clinical Counselling, we invite you to join this group and connect with peer who can relate as we learn about anxiety and stress management. Four sessions will be held where you will be able to develop practical tools and techniques through the use of art, games, and fun activities.
Some areas we will focus on:

Understanding anxiety
Recognizing everyday triggers
Coping strategies – mindfulness, reframing, and cognitive restructuring.

Join us to learn and grow together.
Dates: Friday, February 21 & 28 and March 7 &14
Time: 3:30 – 4:30pm
Register – SWIS@cvims.org

Art Therapy
2025-03-14 10:00 - 12:00 | CVIMS, 101-319 Selby Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9R 2R4, Canada
Self care practices help us recharge, reconnect with ourselves, and maintain physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Join Amélie Blanchard, a Registered Art Therapist and Pauline Goh, Clinical Counsellor for this special session of our Art Therapy workshop series!

Cultural stigmas and social pressures can make it difficult to prioritize self care. Through movement, music, and art explore ways to relate the concept of self care, practice self care.

Friday, March 14
10am – 12pm
101 – 319 Selby St.

Let’s reconnect, recharge, and discover ways to nurture ourselves. This session is open to all – no artistic experience needed!

Interested? REGISTER: workshops@cvims.org
Or just drop-in!
