Welcome to The CNIB BC Yukon's bi-monthly newsletter where you can find information about current and upcoming events.
In this Issue:
Announcements
Vision Loss Rehabilitation News
Advocacy Efforts and Programs
Support Groups and Support Programs
Vision Mate Program
Philanthropy Efforts
Children and Youth Programs
Career and Employment Groups and Programs
Culture, Sports and Recreation Programs
Technology Groups and Programs
Volunteer Opportunities
CNIB British Columbia Programs Contacts
For more information on our exciting programs and services give us your email, call 604-431-2121 or email infobc@cnib.ca or sign up for the newsletter.
Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
Announcements
Vancouver Foundation Programs Open House
This event will take place on Wednesday, September 21, 2019, from 10:00-4:00 p.m. The purpose of the open house is to showcase the various workshops CNIB Vancouver has to offer. RSVP by Monday, September 16, 2019, by emailing program.registration.bcy@cnib.ca.
Youth BlindSquare Project
CNIB Foundation would like to thank the Thompson Okanagan Community Board and TELUS Friendly Futures Foundation for their interest and support in the Youth BlindSquare Project. With this community grant, CNIB Foundation has improved the accessibility of downtown Kelowna for those who are blind and partially sighted. For more detail, make sure you follow us on our social media platforms to learn more!
Guide Dog Awareness Month
On September 1st, we are launching our bilingual website on – GuideDogChampions.ca. This website is geared towards educating businesses and organization on how to show their support on having guide dogs within their community. There are many efforts in developing the awareness and importance of guide dogs, so stay tuned for more updates as September comes along.
Calling all Vision Mate Participants!
Do you need some sighted assistance in completing tasks or activities? Do you have a couple of hours a week to accomplish them? We are looking for CNIB participants with vision loss in the Vancouver [and Kelowna] areas who would like to accomplish tasks and activities like reading, walking, running small errands, or just socializing, with the help of a trained CNIB Volunteer. If this sounds interesting to you, learn more about becoming a participant.
Phone It Forward
Donate your old smartphone to the Phone it Forward program and change the life of someone with vision loss. Prepaid donation envelopes available at a CNIB office or call 1-833-554-5020. Click https://bit.ly/2MVRY7L to access the Phone It Forward web page.
Vision Loss Rehabilitation News
Vision Loss Rehabilitation on Mobile Days
The Vision Loss Rehabilitation team in British Columbia will be traveling across the province over the coming months. Onsite, at each of the locations below, our staff will be providing low vision assessments, orientation and mobility, and assistive technology demonstrations. Shop items will also be available for purchase.
Qualicum
When: Wednesday, September 18 - 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
Where: 180 Veterans Way - Royal Canadian Legion Branch #76
Nanaimo
When: Thursday, September 19 - 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
Where: 2300 Bowen Road - Beban Park - Social Centre Lounge C.
Duncan
When: Wednesday, October 23 - 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
Where: 2687 James Street - Island Savings Centre - Mesachie Room.
Dawson Creek
When: Tuesday, September 17th - 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
Where: Dawson Creek Hospital - 11100 - 13th Street.
Kelowna
When: Tuesday, October 22nd - 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM.
Where: Okanagan Regional Library, Kelowna Branch - 1380 Ellis Street
Advocacy Efforts and Programs
Accessible Election Info Session
The purpose of this workshop is to help educate participants to vote independently through accessibility tools. Sample kits will be available in the demonstration.
*If you are unable to physically attend the workshops, please let us know.
*Limited space is available
Abbotsford
Where: 2630 Bourquin Crescent W #7
When: Oct. 18
Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Contact: ruanne.vent-schmidt@cnib.ca or 604-431-2121 ext. 6004
Chilliwack
Where: 45580 Spadina Ave
When: Oct. 18
Time: 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Contact: ruanne.vent-schmidt@cnib.ca or 604-431-2121 ext. 6004
Kamloops
Where: 546 St Paul St #190
When: Oct. 3
Time: 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Contact: lyndsey.rosevear@cnib.ca or 250-763-1129 ext. 6174
Kamloops
Where: 546 St Paul St #190
When: Oct. 3
Time: 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Contact: lyndsey.rosevear@cnib.ca or 250-763-1129 ext. 6174
Kelowna
Where: 1456 St Paul St #101
When: Oct. 9
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Contact: lyndsey.rosevear@cnib.ca or 250-763-1129 ext. 6174
Kelowna
Where: 1456 St Paul St #101
When: Oct. 9
Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Contact: lyndsey.rosevear@cnib.ca or 250-763-1129 ext. 6174
Kelowna
Where: 1456 St Paul St #101
When: Oct. 10
Time: 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Contact: lyndsey.rosevear@cnib.ca or 250-763-1129 ext. 6174
Prince George
Where: 490 Quebec St #100
When: Oct. 2
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Contact: lyndsey.rosevear@cnib.ca or 250-763-1129 ext. 6174
Prince George
Where: 490 Quebec St #100
When: Oct. 2
Time: 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Contact: lyndsey.rosevear@cnib.ca or 250-763-1129 ext. 6174
Vancouver
Where: #200-5055 Joyce Street
When: Oct. 2
Time: 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Contact: ruanne.vent-schmidt@cnib.ca or 604-431-2121 ext. 6004
Vancouver
Where: #200-5055 Joyce Street
When: Oct. 4
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m
Contact: ruanne.vent-schmidt@cnib.ca or 604-431-2121 ext. 6004
Vancouver
Where: #200-5055 Joyce Street
When: Oct. 4
Time: 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Contact: ruanne.vent-schmidt@cnib.ca or 604-431-2121 ext. 6004
Victoria
Where: 102 - 1675 Douglas Street
When: Oct. 11
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Contact: ruanne.vent-schmidt@cnib.ca or 604-431-2121 ext. 6004
Victoria
Where: 102 - 1675 Douglas Street
When: Oct. 11
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Contact: ruanne.vent-schmidt@cnib.ca or 604-431-2121 ext. 6004
Peer Support Groups and Programs
Vision Odyssey: Adjustment to Vision Loss
The Vision Odyssey Workshop is a six-week workshop that assists individuals in adjustment to vision loss. This is an opportunity to help people with vision loss find normalcy in gaining a sense of independence after losing one's sight. Guest speakers from VLRC will share various independent techniques and tips that will help individuals adapt and thrive. Pre-registration required, no drop-ins.
*To register, or if you are unable to physically attend the workshops in-person, please contact Ruanne Vent-Schmidt at 604-431-2121 ext. 6004 or email: Ruanne.Vent-Schmidt@cnib.ca.
Vancouver
Where: 200-5055 Joyce Street
When: Every Tuesday, September 10 - October 22, 2019. *No workshop on Sept 24.
Time: 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Victoria
Where: 102-1675 Douglas Street
When: Every Tuesday, October 22 - November 26, 2019.
Time: 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Abbotsford
Where: 7-2630 Bourquin Crescent West
When: TBA.
Time: TBA.
For information on all British Columbia CNIB advocacy and peer support programs, please contact Ruanne Vent-Schmidt at 604-431-2121 ext. 6004 or email: Ruanne.Vent-Schmidt@cnib.ca.
Peer Support Group
This group allows participants to connect with others who are experiencing similar circumstances to participate in social gatherings and have the opportunity to learn from guest speakers about a variety of topics relevant to vision loss.
Victoria (Teleconference Available)
Where: 102-1675 Douglas Street
When: Second and fourth Thursday of every month.
Time: 1:00-2:30 p.m.
Vancouver - Working Age - this is for ages 35 to 64
Where: 200-5055 Joyce Street
When: First Tuesday of every month.
Time: 1:00-3:30 p.m.
Vancouver - Seniors - this is for ages 65+
Where: 200-5055 Joyce Street
When: Third Wednesday of every month.
Time: 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Vancouver - Blind Parents
Where: 200-5055 Joyce Street
When: Last Monday of every month.
Time: 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Abbotsford
Where: 7-2630 Bourquin Crescent West
When: First and Third Tuesday of every month.
Time: 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Prince George
Where: 100-490 Quebec Street
When: Bi-weekly on Tuesday starting on September 3rd
Time: 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Kelowna (ages 65 and up)
Where: 101-1456 St Paul Street
When: Third Wednesday of every month.
Time: 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Kamloops Bedford Manor
Where: CNIB, 190-546 St Paul Street
When: First Tuesday of every other month starting September 5th.
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Kamloops River Bend Manor
Where: 760 Mayfair Street
When: Last Thursday of every month.
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Whitehorse, Yukon
Where: TBA.
When: TBA.
Time: TBA.
For information on all British Columbia CNIB advocacy and peer support programs contact Ruanne Vent-Schmidt at 604-431-2121 ext. 6004, or email: Ruanne.Vent-Schmidt@cnib.ca.
Vision Mate Program
Our Vision Mate Program matches individuals living with vision loss with specially-trained volunteers who offer companionship and one-on-one assistance with day-to-day tasks and errands.
Vision mate volunteers assist individuals with a variety of activities, including reading mail, grocery shopping, errands, labeling and organizing household items, as well as enjoying leisure and recreational activities together – like playing cards and going for walks.
For information on the Vision Mate Programs:
- In the Lower Mainland and South Coast, please contact Melisa Tang Choy at 604-431-2121 ext. 6032 or email: Melisa.TangChoy@cnib.ca
- In the Southern Interior and Northern BC, please contact Rebekah McCallum at 250-763-1191 ext. 6180 or email: Rebekah.Mccallum@cnib.ca
- On Vancouver Island please contact Debbie Erb at 250-595-1100 ext. 6108 or email: Debbie.Erb@cnib.ca
Philanthropy Efforts and Events
All of our programs are made possible by philanthropy efforts. This is where we engage the public to act and champion the cause of empowering people amongst us. We put together fun and educational events that create opportunities for our community to get involved and make a difference.
To find out more information on the events below, please contact Shalon Morrison at 604-431-2121 ext. 6012 or email: Shalon.Morrison@cnib.ca
Yoga in the Dark
Yoga in the Dark is an exciting opportunity for local communities to partner with CNIB and practice yoga with a twist. In a blindfolded yoga class, participants are guided through various poses to briefly simulate sight loss, leaving rejuvenated, blissful, and inspired. Yoga in the Dark provides communities with a fun and safe experience to engage friends, and families to get involved and have a direct impact on the lives of those who are blind or partially sighted.
Richmond
Where: 6168 London Road, Unit #140
When: Friday, September 20th
Time: 7:45 PM - 8:45 PM
Victoria Marathon
On October 13, 2019 we are celebrating the 40th Annual GoodLife Fitness Victoria Marathon! Join us for all the celebrations. The GoodLife Fitness Victoria Marathon is a beautiful, seaside course with some mild undulations. CNIB will be participating in this event, we hope to see you there with us. You can show support by making a pledge with this or participate yourself in the run!
Victoria
Where: Downtown Victoria
When: Sunday, October 13th
Time: First Starts at 6:30 AM
Light of Life in the Dark
Leaders from BC’s Chinese – Canadian Community will come together on Saturday, November 9th to raise funds and awareness for CNIB Foundation programs in British Columbia. Guests will be treated to a journey of the senses while experiencing dining in the dark, breathtaking entertainment, and the opportunity to bid on unique auction items. This year’s gala will be raising funds for an important project at CNIB Foundation, Vision Odyssey Peer Support Program. This program offers a safe and confidential space where participants learn about adjustment to vision loss and share experiences with others who are experiencing vision loss. With your support, we can elevate Vision Odyssey to levels greater than we ever imagined.
For ticket information please contact Shalon Morrison at 604-431-2121 ext. 6012 or email: Shalon.Morrison@cnib.ca
Richmond
Where: River Rock Casino and Resort
When: Saturday, November 9th
Time: Reception starts at 6 PM
Career and Employment Groups and Programs
Programs that are designed to support job seekers with sight loss to gain employment and obtain a meaningful career through career counselling, job seeker connections group, and internship and returnship programs. For information on all career and employment programs contact Lyndsey Rosevear at 250-763-1191 ext. 6174 or email: Lyndsey.Rosevear@cnib.ca
Venture Zone and Entrepreneurship
This program is to empower existing or aspiring entrepreneurs with sight loss. Download our free Venture Zone app. This app simulates what it means to own an e-commerce business. Compete with you friends and see who can reach the highest score! You can download the app on IOS at https://cnib.ca/en/programs-and-services/work/i-want-work-myself-venture-zone/resources-entrepreneurs/download-our-new!
Children and Youth Programs
Programs designed for CNIB Children and youth and their families. For information on all British Columbia CNIB children and youth programs contact Emily McFarlane at 604-431-2121 ext. 6018 or email: Emily.McFarlane@cnib.ca.
Youth Music Therapy Group
Music Therapy for Children/Youth with vision loss. Join together to grow together and enjoy music. This program is open and FREE for CNIB participant children and youth ages 7-16. Pre-registration required by emailing: program.registration.bcy@cnib.ca
Victoria
Where: 1675 Douglas St Suite 102
When: Every Monday starting September 16th, until December 2nd
Time: 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Youth and Young Adult Social Group
This group is formally known as the Young Adult Connections group is hosted and facilitated by CNIB participant volunteers who organize monthly meetings for CNIB participants who are between the ages of 15 and 35. This group meets monthly in Vancouver with the option for teleconference if people would like to join from afar. Each month the group gathers to enjoy an activity together. Pre-registration required by emailing: program.registration.bcy@cnib.ca
Vancouver
Where: 200-5055 Joyce Street
When: Saturday, October 19, 2019
Time: 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Music Together: Guardian and Child Music Therapy Group
An infant’s development is dependent on interactions with their parents and guardians. As music is an innate part of life, and a phenomenon that strengthens relationships, it is a wonderful tool to help stimulate that growth. For generations, songs, rhymes, chants, and melodies have been passed on and cherished. From tradition to innovation, music also continues to provide a space in which people can connect with one another. Therefore, we are inviting parents to gather and enjoy a musical experience with one another and their babies. Music will be explored through beloved songs, movement and a variety of instruments. No previous musical experience required. Pre-registration required by emailing: program.registration.bcy@cnib.ca
Vancouver
Where: 200-5055 Joyce Street
When: Saturday, October 5, 2019
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Culture, Sports and Recreation Programs
Fun and social programs designed for all different ages and demographics of CNIB Participants and their families.
Adult Music Therapy and Empowerment Group
Music Therapy for adults with vision loss, join together to grow together. This program is a way for adults to connect with others within an engaging social environment. This is open and FREE to CNIB participants age of 19+. Pre-registration required by emailing: program.registration.bcy@cnib.ca
Vancouver
Where: 200-5055 Joyce Street
When: Every Monday starting September 16th until December 3rd
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Victoria
Where: 1675 Douglas St Suite 102
When: Every Monday starting September 16th until December December 2nd
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
“How I did it”- Working Professionals Speaker’s Sessions
Gaining employment is a widespread issue of concern for the CNIB Community. CNIB offices run many employment programs across BC but sometimes it is better to learn about something from someone who has lived it themselves. We will be starting a speaker’s series hosted out of our CNIB Offices in order to encourage those who have gained employment or meaningful life experiences to share their stories with youth and members of our community that may find value in hearing them. We are inviting those with blindness or partial vision to share their stories with fellow members of the community, youth and parents; really, just sharing “How I did it”. Pre-registration required by emailing: program.registration.bcy@cnib.ca
Vancouver
Where: 200-5055 Joyce Street
When: Wednesday, October 9, 2019 / Saturday, October 19, 2019
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM / 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Victoria
Where: 1675 Douglas St Suite 102
When: Saturday, October 26, 2019
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Beginner Ukulele Class
Interested in learning ukulele? Come join us! This group will focus on ukulele basics such as chords, notes, and instrument care so that you can learn to play your favourite tunes. Whether you love old-time country or today’s pop hits, this group has something for everyone! No previous musical experience required. The program is open and FREE to CNIB participants 8+. Pre-registration required by emailing: program.registration.bcy@cnib.ca.
Victoria
Where: 1675 Douglas St Suite 102
When: Every Monday starting September 16th (Except October 14) Until December 2nd
Time: 5:45 PM - 6:45 PM
Music Jam Sessions
Looking for a space to play music and connect with others? Dust off that guitar, dig out those maracas, and get ready to jam! This group will focus on learning and playing music together in a relaxed setting. Song requests welcome! All levels of musicians welcome. *This program is for Adult participants age 16+. Note: Some small percussion instruments will be provided. You are welcome to bring your own instrument of choice. Pre-registration required by emailing: program.registration.bcy@cnib.ca.
Victoria
Where: 1675 Douglas St Suite 102
When: Monday, September 23rd
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Vancouver
Where: 200 - 5055 Joyce Street
When: Saturday, October 5, 2019
Time: 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Dance Class (Low Impact/Seat-based)
Let’s dance! We will be working with Embrace Arts Foundation to run a low impact dance class for adults living with varying abilities. All levels of dancing ability welcome, this class is designed to participate from a seated position. Classes will be guided and instructor lead, but participant inspired so that participants are helping to build how the class is structured to them. This program will be for participants 19+. Pre-registration required by emailing: program.registration.bcy@cnib.ca.
Victoria
Where: 1675 Douglas St Suite 102
When: Every Thursday starting September 19th, until December 5th
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Coffee Talks
Come join us for a nice brew and even nicer conversation. Program Lead Emily McFarlane and a crew of volunteers will be hosting a Coffee-talk hang out in the CNIB Office. Each month’s coffee talk will have a pre-determined topic of conversation to get the chatter started. Check out our events calendar to see what this month’s topic is and register to come to join us for coffee, snacks, and friendship. This program is open to CNIB participants and Volunteers (19+). Pre Registration Required by emailing: program.registration.bcy@cnib.ca.
Kelowna
Where: 101-1456 St Paul Street
When: Second Thursday of the month starting from October 10, 2019
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Vancouver
Where: 200 - 5055 Joyce Street
When: Saturday October 5, 2019 / Wednesday October 30
Time: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM / 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Victoria
Where: 1675 Douglas St Suite 102
When: Wednesday October 2, 2019
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Monthly Children and Youth Lunch and Social
Let’s get together and have some fun! This monthly program will take place on the first Saturday afternoon of every month and will have different activities, guests and free Lunch for pre-registered participants. This group will be a chance for youth with vision loss and their siblings/ a friend to socialize and connect in a safe and supportive environment. Each month we will gather to partake in themed activities, play some games, share an afternoon snack and maybe make or build something as a group; the options are endless. This program is open to youth at 8-16. Pre-registration required by emailing: program.registration.bcy@cnib.ca.
Vancouver
Where: 200 - 5055 Joyce Street
When: Saturday, October 5, 2019
Time: 12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Connecting with Technology Workshops
Assistive technology is opening new doors for blind and low vision people as never before. In these hands-on workshops, you'll learn about the accessibility features built into smartphones and computers, voice-activated smart-speakers and so much more.
Assistive Technology 101 Workshop
Are friends and family always telling you it’s time to get an iPhone? Join us for the first in a series of workshops where we introduce technology in a down-to-earth manner. We’ll discuss devices controlled entirely with your voice, phones and computers with large-print and speech output – and so much more. Bring that tech-minded someone along and you’ll both be amazed how technology can transform every area of your life! Pre-registration required; call 604-431-2121, Ext. 6030 or email AlfredodelArenal@cnib.ca.
The session is free and is delivered by CNIB's Tech Team.
Campbell River
Where: 1353 16th Ave, at Burwick by the Sea
When: Tuesday, September 17th
Time: 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Qualicum
Where: 180 Veterans Way, Royal Canadian Legion #76
When: Wednesday, September 18th
Time: 10:30-12:00 PM
Comox
Where: 1700 Comox Avenue, at Burwick Retirement Community
When: Tuesday, October 1, 2019
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Victoria
Where: 1675 Douglas St Suite 102
When: Thursday, October 3, 2019
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Sidney
Where: 10030 Resthaven Drive,
When: Thursday, October 3, 2019
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Vancouver
Where: 200 - 5055 Joyce Street
When: Wednesday, October 23, 2019
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Assistive Technology 102 Workshop
Now that you’ve been introduced to the power of technology (including smart speakers), let’s dive a little deeper into the accessibility features built into iPhones and Windows computers. These include Zoom, VoiceOver, Magnifier, and Narrator. We’ll also discuss commercial solutions like ZoomText and JAWS. But don’t worry: we won’t go all geeky … We want to show you the basics of how to make your device work for you! Pre-registration required; call 604-431-2121, Ext. 6030 or email AlfredodelArenal@cnib.ca.
Nanaimo
Where: 2300 Bowen Road, at Beban Park Recreation Center (Room 8)
When: Thursday, September 19th
Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Victoria
Where: 1675 Douglas St Suite 102
When: Wednesday, October 9, 2019 / Thursday, October 10, 2019
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM / 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Vancouver
Where: 200 - 5055 Joyce Street
When: Wednesday, October 30, 2019
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Staying Safe and Getting Connected Workshop
Until you learn how to navigate it safely, the vast reaches of the internet can seem like the “wild west” of the digital age. That’s why we want to put your mind at ease by giving you do’s and don’ts for your time online. We’ll also cover tips for prolonging battery life, explain the pros and cons of public and private wi-fi, and help you get your device connected to the internet. Pack your iPhone or Windows laptop and don’t miss this informative workshop. Pre-registration required; call 604-431-2121, Ext. 6030 or email AlfredodelArenal@cnib.ca.
Victoria
Where: 1675 Douglas St Suite 102
When: Wednesday, October 9, 2019
Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Staying in Touch Workshop
Want to do a better job at staying connected with the young people in your life? Imagine everyone’s delight when they learn you’ve joined the “cool crowd” and can now text, email, and Facetime with the best of them. Join us for a step-by-step walk-through of high-tech ways of staying in touch using your iPhone with Zoom or VoiceOver. No, it’s not that hard. Yes, you can do it; we’ll show you how! Pre-registration required; call 604-431-2121, Ext. 6030 or email AlfredodelArenal@cnib.ca.
Victoria
Where: 1675 Douglas St Suite 102
When: Wednesday, October 16, 2019
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Helpful Apps for Freedom and Independence Workshop
Have you heard about the amazing apps that can identify groceries and read printed instructions aloud? How about apps that let you listen to audiobooks and podcasts or get on-demand sighted assistance – anytime, anywhere? Now’s your chance to learn about this exciting technology and how to use it. Bring your iPhone or iPad and get ready for more independence as we introduce you to some game-changing apps for low vision users. Pre-registration required; call 604-431-2121, Ext. 6030 or email AlfredodelArenal@cnib.ca.
Victoria
Where: 1675 Douglas St Suite 102
When: Wednesday, October 16, 2019
Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Together with Technology- Seniors and Youth Tech Support Drop-In
Youth and young adult volunteers will be ready to support seniors with their technology. Please bring your technology and the questions you may have and our volunteers will do their best to help you out! Pre-registration required by emailing: program.registration.bcy@cnib.ca
Vancouver
Where: 200 - 5055 Joyce Street
When: Wednesday, October 16, 2019 / Saturday, October 19, 2019
Time: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM / 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Volunteer Opportunities
CNIB Volunteer Orientations
Make a difference in the life of an individual who is blind or partially sighted! CNIB Volunteer Orientations are designed to introduce potential volunteers to the CNIB Foundation and Vision Loss Rehabilitation BC, our new and exciting Foundation programming, learn about vision loss, and how to work with someone who is blind or partially sighted. Volunteers also learn some basics on how to provide sighted guide assistance safely and with respect.
How to RSVP: Apply to become a CNIB Volunteer today! You can find the volunteer application form at https://cnib.ca/en/form/volunteer-application or contact your local CNIB office for more information.
Vision Mate Program
Our Vision Mate Program matches individuals living with vision loss with specially-trained volunteers who offer companionship and one-on-one assistance with day-to-day tasks and errands.
Vision mate volunteers assist individuals with a variety of activities, including reading mail, grocery shopping, errands, labeling and organizing household items, as well as enjoying the leisure and recreational activities together – like playing cards and going for walks.
For information on the Vision Mate Programs:
- In the Lower Mainland and South Coast, please contact Melisa Tang Choy at 604-431-2121 ext. 6032 or email: Melisa.TangChoy@cnib.ca
- In the Southern Interior and Northern BC, please contact Rebekah McCallum at 250-763-1191 ext. 6180 or email: Rebekah.Mccallum@cnib.ca
- On Vancouver Island please contact Debbie Erb at 250-595-1100 ext. 6108 or email: Debbie.Erb@cnib.ca
See below for our summary of our available opportunities across British Columbia and click here for more interesting opportunities.
Lower Mainland Volunteer Opportunities:
- Vision Mates – Volunteers to work one-on-one with someone who is blind or partially sighted. Helping with shopping groceries, opening mail and organizing household items.
- Group Activities Assistant - Take part in a Culture and Recreation program while making a difference
- Event Volunteers - Join one of our fundraising events while taking part in empowering others to dream boldly
- Reception Volunteer - Answer phones and perform administrative tasks
- Technology Program Assistant - Connect with others to unleash the power of technology
- CNIB Ambassador - Engage with the community by educating the public about living with sight loss and CNIB programs
Fraser Valley Volunteer Opportunities:
- Admin Volunteers - Answer phones and perform administrative tasks.
- CNIB Ambassador - Engage with the community by educating the public about living with sight loss and CNIB programs
Southern Interior Volunteer Opportunities:
- Admin Volunteers - Answer phones and perform administrative tasks.
- CNIB Ambassador - Engage with the community by educating the public about living with sight loss and CNIB programs
- Vision Mates – Volunteers to work one-on-one with someone who is blind or partially sighted. Helping with shopping groceries, opening mail and organizing household items.
- Group Activities Assistant - Take part in the activities while making a difference
- Event Volunteers - join one of our events while taking part in empowering others to dream boldly
- Technology Program Assistant - connect with others to unleash the power of technology
Northern British Columbia Volunteer Opportunities:
- CNIB Ambassador - Engage with the community by educating the public about living with sight loss and CNIB programs
- Vision Mates – Volunteers to work one-on-one with someone who is blind or partially sighted. Helping with shopping groceries, opening mail and organizing household items.
- Event Volunteers - join one of our events while taking part in empowering others to dream boldly
Vancouver Island Volunteer Opportunities:
- Admin Volunteers - Answer phones and perform administrative tasks.
- CNIB Ambassador - Engage with the community by educating the public about living with sight loss and CNIB programs
- Vision Mates – Volunteers to work one-on-one with someone who is blind or partially sighted. Helping with shopping groceries, opening mail and organizing household items.
- Group Activities Assistant - Take part in the activities while making a difference
CNIB Foundation British Columbia Programs Contacts
For information on all British Columbia CNIB advocacy and peer support programs contact Ruanne Vent-Schmidt at 604-431-2121 ext. 6004 or email: Ruanne.Vent-Schmidt@cnib.ca.
For information on all British Columbia CNIB recreation, leisure and youth programs contact Emily McFarlane at 604-431-2121 ext. 6018 or email: Emily.McFarlane@cnib.ca.
For information on all career and employment programs contact Henry Stuive at 604-431-2121 ext. 6028 or email: Henry.Stuive@cnib.ca.
For information on all technology programs contact Alfredo del Arenal at 604-431-2121 ext. 6030 or email: AlfredodelArenal@cnib.ca.
For information on all volunteer and ambassador programs:
- In the Lower Mainland and South Coast, please contact Melisa Tang Choy at 604-431 2121 ext. 6032 or email: Melisa.TangChoy@cnib.ca
- In the Southern Interior and Northern BC, please contact Rebekah McCallum at 250-763-1191 ext. 6180 or email: Rebekah.Mccallum@cnib.ca
- On Vancouver Island please contact Debbie Erb at 250-595-1100 ext. 6108 or email: Debbie.Erb@cnib.ca
For more information on our exciting programs and services give us your email, call 604-431-2121 or email infobc@cnib.ca or sign up for the newsletter.
Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
Thank you to our partner:
