Upcoming Events

Write a short story, essay, or poem on any topic or re-purpose something you've written for school this year! Show off your creative writing talents for a chance to win cash prizes. The contest is open to primary and secondary students (grades K-12) who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision and live in Canada. 

Are you currently serving on an accessibility advisory committee in your community, workplace or with an organization? CNIB is creating a new national network to connect, support, and strengthen the work of accessibility advocates across the country, and we’d love for you to be a part of it!

We are looking for Youth Leaders (14-21) in Calgary, Edmonton, or surrounding areas interested in getting involved with planning activities for their peers! 

The Vision Mate program is CNIB's flagship initiative for one-on-one support. Vision Mate volunteers are matched up with a person who is blind or partially sighted to provide one-on-one sighted assistance and companionship.

This newsletter is for those interested in virtual or in person programs that are run specifically out of the Ontario West region. Please register and you will be added to the distribution list for when this comes out at the end of the month.

Whether you believe you can, or you believe you can’t, you are right! Join the club that believes the word “Can’t" is not allowed! The I Can Club is focused on building the attitudes and skills that lead us to think about all that is possible. Are you a child or youth (age 29 and under) who is interested in exploring the world around you and finding ways to look at all the things that are possible, instead of only the obstacle in front of you?  In the I Can Club, you'll meet a group of individuals who challenge the word "Can't" with a “Yes, I can do that,“ or “How can I do that?" attitude. 

OPVIC (formally VIEWS) is a volunteer organization of parents of visually impaired children/youth focused on empowering families and advocating for our kids in Ontario. OPVIC is a friendly and supportive organization of parents, family members and guardians of children with any amount of vision loss. This group is created to connect families share reliable resources and support one another.

 Visit new attractions in Manitoba and meet new people. These outings are year-round and inclusive to all. Events and dates vary.

Ever want to take on the challenge of a 5k run or walk? If you're a youth in the Windsor and Essex region who wants to work towards this great accomplishment, CNIB has a limited number of FREE entries a community event hosted by the Running Factory in Windsor.

This program is designed to provide support for Indigenous people who are blind or partially sighted through traditional teachings and empowerment in a safe, welcoming environment. Participants will have the opportunity to participate in accessible land-based learning, engage with facilitators from a variety of backgrounds, and build meaningful relationships within their community. The program will meet in person once a month, creating ongoing opportunities to connect through Indigenous ways of knowing.

CNIB, in partnership with graduate students from Carleton University, is looking for participants to take part in an online research study about social perceptions. The Imagined Workplace Interactions Study aims to better understand social perceptions by exploring how people perceive others they interact with and how they feel about them after an interaction. Your input will help researchers better understand social experiences at work and in group settings. Compensation in the form of an Amazon gift card will be provided.

 Visit new attractions in Manitoba and meet new people. These outings are year-round and inclusive to all. Events and dates vary.

Introducing CNIB Discovery Saturdays! Each month we will explore different skill areas to expand our horizons and connect with peers. Skills we will explore include art, technology, sports and more! This program is for younger children in grades 1 to 5. We will have a combination of days in the office as well as outings. Discovery Saturdays will now be offered 2 times monthly, typically on the first and third Saturday of the month (dependent on holidays) at CNIB Winnipeg.

Inclusive Momentum and CNIB would like to invite community members of all ages to attend a series of training workshops for solving the accessible Rubik’s Cube. Attendees will meet in person for up to 21 weekly Sunday sessions (beginning January 18) from 2 to 4 p.m. Eastern Time at the CNIB GTA Community Hub (1525 Yonge Street, Toronto).

Join host Kelly MacDonald as he shares a blast from the past! Listen to all the old radio shows that made the genre so popular. Everything from mystery, comedy, westerns and holiday specific shows. Sit back and enjoy! First and third Sunday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

The walking group provides a chance for community members who are blind or have low vision to exercise and practice their mobility and travel skills. This group meets every Monday (Tuesday when there is a long weekend) from 10 to 11 a.m.

If you have a green thumb (or you'd like to have one), then this gardening discussion group is for you! We swap success stories, talk about our favourite plants, and generally 'dish the dirt' on all things horticultural. For all levels of garden enthusiasts. Whether you patio or container garden, or have lots of gardening space, the time in this group will just buzz by. Every Monday from 1 to 2 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

A monthly community-based group to discuss issues relating to vision loss and to socialize with others. Guest speakers are occasionally invited to present on different topics. Third Monday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. at McKillop United Church. 

We’re excited to offer two amazing yoga classes, each designed to suit different needs and abilities. Whether you're new to yoga or seeking a gentle, mindful practice, we have something for you! All classes are held via Zoom, making it easy to join from the comfort of your home.

Love cooking or would love to know more about cooking? Join this group to share ideas, tips, tricks and the joy of cooking and baking! Every Monday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Music Therapist Erin Koop hosts weekly sessions on Zoom for children across the country. These interactive sessions are filled with songs, stories, and more! Get ready to make some music! This group runs on Zoom, every Monday from 3:45 to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time.

If you enjoy attending live theatre performances such as Prairie Theatre Exchange, Rainbow Stage, Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre and more, this group will be of interest for you. We will be attending various venues to enjoy live theatre productions that have audio-described services.

Join us for conversation, laughter, and a chance to reminisce about your favourite CNIB Lake Joe memories. Pour yourself a coffee, tea, or beverage of choice, login and connect with your friends from Lake Joe. Coffee Break meets every Tuesday from 9 to 10 a.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering. 

This informal coffee chat group is a chance to socialize virtually and meet new people. It’s a relaxed and inclusive group where everyone is welcome. Every Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m. Atlantic Time on Zoom.

Missing those coffee meetups with friends and the social connection they bring? We’re here to keep the conversation going! Now that we’ve connected, let’s stay in touch, share inspiring stories, and exchange practical tips and successes with others navigating life with sight loss. Every Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

If you’re passionate about reading and enjoy discussing books with others, this is the perfect place for you. Whether you’re in Richmond Hill or the surrounding areas, we welcome you to connect with fellow book lovers. Third Tuesday of every month from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Join us at Point Pleasant Park for a friendly group walk designed to be welcoming for all. Volunteers are available to provide sighted guide support, so everyone can take part with ease. It’s a simple way to get outside, meet others, and enjoy the park together. After the walk, relax at the picnic tables with some light refreshments. Every Tuesday from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Point Pleasant Park (5530 Point Pleasant Drive, Halifax).

Tech It Out is our monthly afternoon session where CNIB Tech Lead Steve MacInnes and Tech Mate volunteer Dave spotlight a different technology or topic each month. This month, the pair will focus on accessible reading options; explore audiobooks, screen readers, braille, and the latest tech that make reading easier and more enjoyable. Whether you're new to accessible reading or looking to expand your options, this session will help you find the tools that work best for you. Tuesday,  May 19 from 2 to 3 p.m. Atlantic Time on Zoom. 

Having trouble with your technology or curious about exploring something new? Join our discussion group for individuals with sight loss, where we come together to ask for help, swap tips and tricks, share favorite apps, and support one another. Whether you're contributing or simply listening in, you'll strengthen your skills in the process. First and third Tuesday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Transport yourself to another country from the comfort of the London Hub. The music, the history, the fun facts, and the food. Be prepared to help make a simple food item and taste it. Please let us know at registration if you allergic to any food items. Tuesday, March 17 from 1 to 2 p.m. at the CNIB London Community Hub (171 Queens Ave Suite 101, London). 

The Spruce Grove Peer Group is a supportive gathering where members can connect, share experiences, and encourage one another. Whether you’re looking for community, understanding, or simply a place to talk, you’ll find a warm and welcoming space here. Third Tuesday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. Mountain Time at the Spruce Grove Public Library Central Branch (35 5 Ave., Spruce Grove).

A community-based support group for Vernon area residents that offers ongoing emotional adjustment to vision loss support. Third Tuesday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Vernon Public Library, upstairs in the Okanagan Room. 

If you're struggling to overcome the emotional challenges of sight loss and wish you had someone to help you work through these feelings, you’re not alone. We're here for you. This peer support group is for community members in the Taber area to get together and chat about vision loss and their experiences. Third Tuesday of every month from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at Clearview Lodge. 

Smartphones, apps, wearables and other innovative digital tools are game changers in every part of life for people who are blind, Deafblind or have low vision. Are you having challenges with using your technology or do you simply have questions about something new? Would you like to enjoy a coffee and connect with others while learning assistive technology to make life with vision loss easier? Learn how technology can enhance your life! Third Tuesday of every month from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the CNIB Victoria Hub (102-1675 Douglas Street, Victoria).

Music Therapist Erin Koop hosts weekly sessions on Zoom for children across the country. These interactive sessions are filled with songs, stories, and more! Get ready to make some music!  This group runs on Zoom, every Tuesday from 2:30 to 3:15 p.m. Pacific Time. 

The Healing Leash: Honouring Guide Dog Loss is volunteer-led peer support group for anyone who has experienced the loss of a Guide Dog—through passing, retirement, or rehoming. Participants will have the opportunity to share their stories, honour their bond, offer mutual support, and gain comfort through shared experiences and insights. The group is open to all. This 4-week series meets Tuesday, May 5, 12, 19 and 26 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom. Zoom information will be shared after registering. 

Join hosts Kevin and Brian for the widely popular – Tech Talk Tuesday. In these hour-long, weekly Zoom sessions we will discuss accessible technology as well as its practical application in everyday life. You don’t need to know a lot about technology: you can just listen if you like. The group consists of beginners as well as advanced users of accessible technology. All questions and ideas are welcomed. Every Tuesday from 7 to 8 p.m. Atlantic Time on Zoom.

Ottawa Youth are invited to participate in our monthly skateboard program. This program is open to participants ages 8 and up. Boards and helmets will be provided if needed, however you may wish to purchase additional padding. There is a maximum of 8 spaces available and you must register in advance. 

Gather 'round for campfire, a cozy and inclusive event for families to come together and enjoy the magic of camp traditions...no tents required! This group meets Tuesdays, 7 to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.

If you're struggling to overcome the emotional challenges of sight loss and wish you had someone to help you work through these feelings, you’re not alone. We're here for you. Join this supportive group who meet to talk about issues surrounding vision loss. Third Tuesday of every month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Hillside Church (2903 Kingsview Blvd SE #209, Airdrie).

The Regina Youth Adventure Club is a monthly program for youth who are blind or have low vision. It provides a supportive social setting where participants develop leadership and advocacy skills, build confidence and self-esteem, and gain knowledge about post-secondary education and work transitions. The program fosters independence and self-advocacy while helping youth discover their capabilities. Through leadership roles, community projects, and guest speakers, participants learn to support themselves and others while building meaningful connections. Third Tuesday of every month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the CNIB Regina office. 

This program gives the participants an opportunity to exercise by walking at their own pace in a safe environment. Participants will have a chance to socialize not only while they are walking, but there is a room set up for everyone to socialize. Bring your indoor walking shoes, a friend, and a smile. Every Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Irving Oil Field House (129 McAllister Drive, Saint John). 

Come out and join us at the CNIB Ottawa Hub for some coffee, tea, snacks and chat! Meet your peers, socialize, laugh and learn from each other as well as occasional speakers. Come and contribute to the discussion and make new friends. Third Wednesday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the CNIB Ottawa Hub. 

Book some time to play today! Join us on Wednesdays from 1 to 2 p.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering. 

Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) is a reaction to vision loss by the brain, which attempts to replace lost information by drawing from your own memory and various visual centers. CBS occurs in people with significant vision loss, leading to visual hallucinations. This program aims to offer comprehensive information and support for individuals experiencing CBS and their caregivers. It provides a safe space for participants to share their experiences comfortably, build confidence, and help one another cope with the effects of CBS. Third Wednesday of every month from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Pacific Time on Zoom.

A monthly community-based senior support group for Vancouver area residents aged 55+ that offers ongoing emotional adjustment to vision loss support. Third Wednesday of every month from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Zoom.

This four-week program offers a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals adjusting to vision loss. Participants will have the chance to share practical strategies, fostering confidence, independence, happiness, and hope while redefining the experience of sight loss. Every Wednesday (May 6 to 27) from 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Winnipeg. 

This program is designed for people who are living with blindness or sight loss in Manitoba or Saskatchewan and wanting to connect with others who are experiencing similar circumstances in a safe and comfortable setting. Participants will have the opportunity to help choose various topics this group would like to discuss each session as well as have the option to share ideas, suggestions, stories, worries, etc. with the group. The Saskatchewan and Manitoba Indigenous Peer Support Group meets on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. CDT on Zoom.

Love photography? Whether you're a pro with your camera or just learning to use the photo app on your smartphone, our club is the perfect place for you. We're all about discovering creative ways to capture moments as photographers who are blind or have low vision. Together, we'll teach and share tips, tricks, and techniques to make the most of our devices and inspire each other with the photos we take. Third Wednesday of every month from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

The Sherwood Park Peer Group is a welcoming space for people who are blind or partially sighted to connect, share experiences, and support one another. Through monthly gatherings, members can build friendships, exchange practical tips for living with vision loss, and enjoy meaningful conversations in a supportive environment. Third Wednesday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. Mountain Time at the Strathcona County Community Centre (401 Festival Lane, Sherwood Park).