Peer Support Programs

Two Indigenous participants sit at a table in CNIB Thunder Bay smiling. During a holiday program, they create decorations out of fresh cedar bows, dried orange slices, homemade gingerbread cookies, ribbons, bells, cinnamon sticks, and jute twine.

Saskatchewan and Manitoba Indigenous Peer Support Group

This program is designed for blind or partially sighted indigenous individuals who are 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. This Saskatchewan and Manitoba Indigenous Peer Support Group meet on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. CDT on Zoom.

A support group of eight people sit in chairs in a circle and engage in lively conversation.

Meaningful Mondays: Compassionate Conversations

This Adjustment to Vision Loss (AVL) Discussion Series keeps the interactive conversation going. In a safe and confidential, peer led, (virtual) space, people with sight loss can drop in to explore, contribute, and understand the many emotions and losses associated with sight loss, and build self-confidence for leading a meaningful and independent life. Second Monday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

An illustration of a megaphone outlined in a black paintbrush style design with yellow accents.

Pride Connection

Intended for adults who are blind or partially sighted and are members of the LGBTQ2S+ community. Participants from across the country meet monthly to share experiences, listen to guest speakers, and discuss topics chosen by the group. Third Wednesday of every month from 12 to 1 p.m. Eastern Time.

An illustration of a smiling sunshine icon outlined in a black paintbrush style design with yellow accents.

Beyond Sight Series

The Beyond Sight Series feature monthly virtual presentations from various services, businesses and organizations in our community. Each month, we will offer a different topic and speaker will join us to discuss a variety of topics. Examples include: RDSP’s, wills, budgeting, nutrition and lots more. Fourth Monday of every month from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.

A person sits in a group circle. Their hands are clasped in their lap.

Diabetes & Vision Loss Group

This group for people who are living with sight loss and diabetes, meets monthly for conversation, sharing insights and presentations. Fourth Wednesday of every month from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Biblical Peer Support Group

A time for sharing, communion, prayer and praise. Make new friends, deepen existing friendships, find support from your peers. This program is an extension of the Bible Study. The Biblical Peers Support Group meets four times over the summer months from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Central Time on Zoom. Dates TBC.

Seeing Things: Charles Bonnet Syndrome Group

This group is specifically for those who are experiencing symptoms/have had a diagnosis of CBS. Participants meet monthly for this conversational support group. Third Wednesday of every month from 1 to 2 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

A group of four people sit in a semi-circle and engage in conversation during a group get together.

Adjustment to Vision Loss – October 2024

Adjustment to Vision Loss Intro program is for people who are new to sight loss and are seeking a supportive and safe environment for discussion with peers in similar situations. This program is led by facilitators with lived experience of sight loss. This peer support group meets four consecutive Wednesdays (June 5 to June 26) from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom. A commitment to the four week series is required as this is not a drop in program.