Upcoming Events

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.

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.

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.

Step into a story that celebrates resilience, curiosity, and the power of listening. Join us for a guided reading of If You Could See What I Hear, Tom Sullivan’s unforgettable memoir of growing up blind - and living boldly on his own terms. Through rich soundscapes, honest reflection, and moments that will make you laugh, reflect, and feel inspired, this shared listening experience brings the book’s heart to life. Come relax, connect with others, and let a powerful voice remind us that seeing the world isn’t only about sight - it’s about courage, independence, and joy. The Spoken Story Series meets monthly with dates and times confirmed upon registering. 

The Healing Leash: Honouring Guide Dog Loss is a 4-week, 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.

Braille Quest: a fun braille literacy adventure (with prizes!) Put your braille skills to the test, at home or school! Complete fun challenges for a chance to win a prize. Do a few Braille Quest activities, or do them all! Do as many activities as you like from January to March 2027.

A fast and fun way to kick off a year of Braille Literacy! We’re looking for tactile, fun, and creative artworks that feature braille. Show us your craftiest creations! Create your name or a few of your favourite words in braille! Instead of fingertip-sized dots, think big and creative, maybe Timbit or basketball braille. Open to elementary and secondary students across Canada, English and French entries welcome. For students curious about braille and those who already use it! Submissions due January 31, 2027.

The Braille Institute's Braille Challenge is the only academic competition of its kind in North America for students who are blind or partially sighted. Contestants compete in regional preliminary Braille Challenge events from January through March, and the top 50 students (10 in each category) with the highest scores are then invited to compete in the finals. Test your braille skills in the Ontario Regional Braille Challenge! Registration deadline: January 9, 2027.

Sight Loss Connect is a monthly group for people living with sight loss to come together, connect, and share their experiences. It’s a relaxed, welcoming space where you can talk openly, listen to others, and learn from shared experiences. The group is shaped by the people who attend, so topics will focus on what matters most to you. You can expect conversation-based sessions where we talk about real-life experiences, challenges, and practical tips for navigating sight loss, while building connections and supporting one another. The group meets on the second Saturday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Riverside Public Library (6305 Wyandotte Street East, Windsor). 

Come chat with Lawrence and his co-hosts as they guide discussions on “All Things Music” CNIB’s virtual music group for blind and low vision musicians and music lovers! This group is a space to connect, share, and discuss everything music-related, from instruments and songs to tips, resources, and performances. Second Saturday of every month from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Atlantic Time on Zoom.

Canadian Blind Hockey is thrilled to announce the return of the Ottawa 67’s Youth Blind Hockey Team for another incredible season in the nation’s capital! Each year this program keeps getting bigger and better, with more enthusiastic players and amazing volunteers joining the fun. Every Saturday (October 17, 2026 to March 20, 2027) at the McNabb Community Centre (180 Percy Street, Ottawa).

The Ottawa Adult Blind Hockey Team is hitting the ice again! Open to adults who are blind or partially sighted in Ottawa and the surrounding region, this program is the perfect chance to learn, play, and connect through Canada’s favourite sport. Every Saturday (October 17, 2026 to March 20, 2027) at the McNabb Community Centre (180 Percy Street, Ottawa).

CNIB is inviting London area families to come and enjoy a fun monthly Saturday afternoon of connection, play, networking and community building. Meet other parents of children with blindness and partial vision in a relaxed setting, enjoy some snacks and have your children participate in a variety of engaging activities together. Kids can enjoy crafts, baking, and movies with described audio, while parents connect and share experiences. Second Saturday of each month from 2 to 4 p.m. Eastern Time at the CNIB London Community Hub.

Alt Route is proud to present the second year of our brand-new, fully structured Accessible Skateboarding Camp. This multi-session camp has been carefully designed based on participant feedback. It features skilled, certified coaches and aims to help participants develop new skills or build on existing ones in a supportive, fun, and inclusive environment. This program is crafted to challenge and empower you in a safe, supportive environment.

Ready to create, design, and innovate? Join our 3D STEM Innovation Program, where youth with sight loss will explore 3D printing, accessible design, and hands-on technology. Participants will learn how to design and print their own creations while developing problem-solving, creativity, and STEM skills. We encourage you to join if you already have a knowledge of 3D Printing or if you are just interested to learn! Biweekly on Sunday from 5 to 7 p.m. at CNIB Edmonton.

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.

This social gathering offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with peers, practice mobility skills, and enjoy the beauty of nature in a supportive environment. Every Monday at 10 a.m. at The Leaf at Assiniboine Park (145 The Leaf Way, Winnipeg).

This seven-week program offers a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals adjusting to sight loss. Led by trained CNIB volunteers, this virtual group meets via Zoom or by phone, making it accessible from the comfort of your home. Once you register you will receive an email that will confirm you are on our waitlist. We will connect with you as soon as we are able to offer you a space in one of our fall sessions.

This seven-week program offers a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals adjusting to sight loss. Led by trained CNIB volunteers, this virtual group meets via Zoom or by phone, making it accessible from the comfort of your home. Once you register you will receive an email that will confirm you are on our waitlist. We will connect with you as soon as we are able to offer you a space in one of our fall sessions.

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 2 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Join Amber for weekly Braille Practice Sessions! These supportive and interactive sessions are designed to help participants build confidence, strengthen their braille reading and writing skills, and connect with others on a similar learning journey. Whether you are new to braille or looking to improve your skills, all are welcome. Every Tuesday from 2 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Halifax.

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). 

Tech It Out is our monthly session where CNIB Tech Lead Steve MacInnes and volunteer Dave spotlight a different technology each month. This month, the pair will host a practical and informative workshop on AI! Curious about how artificial intelligence could make everyday life easier? Join us for a practical one-hour workshop exploring the latest AI tools and features that can support people who are blind or living with sight loss. Tuesday, November 17 from 2 to 3 p.m. Atlantic Time on Zoom.

Once a month, volunteer Maureen opens the door to a space where people with sight loss can show up as they are, learn from one another, and enjoy easy conversation with people who’ve walked similar paths. There will be coffee, tea, and snacks! Tuesday, November 17 from 2:30 to 4 p.m. at the Isle Madame New Horizons Senior Citizens Club (2373 NS-206, Arichat)

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 virtually.

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. 

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. 

Designed for Community Engagement Volunteers, this interactive session focuses on public speaking for advocacy and building confidence in communicating with impact. Participants will strengthen their communication and storytelling skills, learn strategies for engaging different audiences, and explore practical tools to enhance their effectiveness as advocates in their communities. Tuesday, November 14 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Zoom.

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.

Join us to connect, chat, and listen to some fun stories. Please note that this program is for children between 4 and 10 years of age. Every Tuesday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

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.

A monthly in-person coffee chat for Moncton residents. A great opportunity to reconnect, share stories and enjoy each other's company. Third Wednesday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m at the Champlain Mall Food Court (477 Paul Street, Dieppe).