Peer Support Programs
Understanding, support, mentorship and advice. Peer Support groups give you the opportunity to connect with others who are living with sight loss.
Upcoming Events
Western Social Meet Up
Join us for our weekly social meet up group. We’ll get to know each other, share some good news stories, and socialize. Every Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m. Mountain Time on Zoom.
Taber Peer Support Group
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.
Grande Prairie Peer Support Group
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 Grande Prairie area to get together and chat about vision loss and their experiences. Last Monday of every month from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at Cairn on the Boulevard.
Life Coaching
Are you interested in personal development? Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow and connect with others with CNIB Winnipeg's monthly interactive life coaching series. In this group, we will explore topics such as love, dating, relationships, confidence, and much more. Third Thursday of every month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Winnipeg.
Eastern Canada Social Meet Up
Are you craving that social interaction you normally get from going for coffee with friends? We are here to keep the virtual conversation going post pandemic! Since we've gotten to know each other, lets stay connected and share some good news stories, discuss practical tips and successes with others living with vision loss. Every Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.
St. Catharines Friendly Chat Group – Waitlist
This is a waitlist for when we have enough interest in the St. Catharines area for a Friendly Chat Peer Social Group. The program will be for those who are wanting friendly conversation and encouragement. It is designed for individuals who are blind or low vision to connect with others who are experiencing similar circumstances. Meetings will tie in good practices, information, discussions, caring and support. We hope that this group will start by being offered once a month in person. Once we are able to run this group, you will be contacted.
Windsor Friendly Chat Group – Waitlist
This is a waitlist for when we have enough interest in the Windsor area for a Friendly Chat Peer Social Group. The program will be for those who are wanting friendly conversation and encouragement. It is designed for individuals who are blind or low vision to connect with others who are experiencing similar circumstances. Meetings will tie in good practices, information, discussions, caring and support. We hope that this group will start by being offered once a month in person. Once we are able to run this group, you will be contacted.
North Battleford Peer Support Group
This program is designed for individuals who are blind or partially sighted to connect with others who are experiencing similar circumstances and to participate in social gatherings. This Peer Support Program also provides the opportunity for participants to learn from guest speakers about a variety of relevant topics. Group details (Date, Time, Location) are to be confirmed.
Melfort Peer Support Group
This program is designed for individuals who are blind or partially sighted to connect with others who are experiencing similar circumstances and to participate in social gatherings. This Peer Support Program also provides the opportunity for participants to learn from guest speakers about a variety of relevant topics. Group details (Date, Time, Location) are to be confirmed.
Burlington Friendlies
Join to connect with other people in the Burlington area for conversation, support and good practices. First, second and third Thursday of every month from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Zoom
Edmonton Women's Peer Support Group
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 of women who meet to talk about issues surrounding vision loss. First and third Thursday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Edmonton.
Saskatoon Coffee Group
This informal coffee chat provides a welcoming platform for individuals with sight loss to share their experiences, discuss concerns, and build friendships with others in the community who share similar journeys. Whether you are newly adjusting to vision loss or have lived with it your entire life, we warmly invite you to join us in a space where everyone is valued and supported. Every Friday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at CNIB Saskatoon.
Edmonton Social Meet Up Group (Ages 18-35)
If you are between the ages of 18-35 and would like to meet up with others in the Edmonton area, this group is for you. The Edmonton Social Meet Up group gets together once a month or a couple of hours to socialize at different locations.
Camrose VIP Peer Support Group
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 Camrose area. Second Monday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. at Church of God.
Cochrane Peer Support Group
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 5 to 7 p.m. at the Cochrane Public Library
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 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Pacific Time on Zoom.
Vancouver Seniors Connections Group
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. Pacific Time on Zoom.
Kingston Coffee and Chat
Join us for coffee and great conversation. We will have guest speakers, and an opportunity to talk with others who are going through similar challenges in a confidential and non-judgmental setting. Third Thursday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Artillery Park Aquatic Centre (382 Bagot Street, Kingston).
YES & BS (Your Everyday Stuff & Brainstorming) Peer Support Group
A monthly community-based peer support group to discuss issues relating to sight loss and to socialize with others. Guest speakers are occasionally invited to present on different topics. tThird Thursday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Calgary
Lethbridge Social Group
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.
Prince Albert Peer Support Group
The Prince Albert Peer Support Group is for people experiencing vision loss or who are blind. This group will be facilitated by volunteer, Don Horncastle who has lived experience. The topics discussed are relevant and chosen by the group to make sure that participants are getting the information that they require to live a full life. The Prince Albert Peer Support Group meets on the fourth Wednesday of every month from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Calvary United Church.
Durham VIP Group
Think of this as a social group to connect with others who share a unique life trajectory living with vision loss. We are creating an experience for connection and engagement grounded in understanding, respect and support. This group values the knowledge of folks who have experience in the vision loss social space and would like to encourage those new to the vision loss social space to join us. Last Wednesday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Abilities Centre in Whitby.
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.
Alberta Parent Peer Group
Come together with other parents and experts for impactful discussions on topics that affect children and youth with sight loss and their families. The group meets virtually on the fourth Monday of every month, 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., with in-person meetings held quarterly in Calgary and Edmonton.
Fredericton Connections
A monthly group for Fredericton residents that brings CNIB participants together for fun, support, and other engaging activities. Last Tuesday of every month from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m at the Fredericton Public Library.
Kootenay Connections Group
An online community-based support group for the Kootenays area residents that offers ongoing emotional adjustment to vision loss support. This peer support group meets on the fourth Monday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. on Zoom.
Prince George Connections Group
A community-based support group for Prince George residents that offers ongoing emotional adjustment to sight loss support. This peer support group meets every two weeks. The location alternates between in-person meetings at the Prince George & District Senior Citizens Activity Centre Society and online meetings on Tuesdays from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Pacific Time.
Vernon Connections Group
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.
Kelowna Seniors Peer Support Group
A peer support group for Kelowna CNIB clients aged 55+ to discuss issues relating to vision loss, and to socialize with others in the vision loss community. Guest speakers are occasionally invited to present on different topics. This peer support group meets at the Rotary Centre for the Arts on the third Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Pacific Time. This program is also available over Zoom.
Medicine Hat Peer Support Group
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 Medicine Hat area to get together and chat about successes, struggles, and resources when living with sight loss. Fourth Tuesday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. at CORE Association (412 3rd Street SE, Medicine Hat).
Calgary 18-35 Peer Social Group
Looking to connect, have fun, and build lasting friendships? If you're between the ages of 18 and 35 and living with sight loss, this group is for you! Join us every month for a couple of hours of laughter, support, and great conversation with others who truly understand your journey. Last Wednesday of the month from 5 to 7 p.m. Monthly locations will vary.
Tuesday Zoom Coffee and Chat
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.
Spruce Grove Peer Group
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 – location TBC.
Sherwood Park Peer Group
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).
Estevan Peer Support Group
This group is for people who are experiencing vision loss. It would be a time to chat and discuss issues that are important to one another. The groups are a way to support those with vision loss to socialize and enjoy the company of those who understand what it is like to live with vision loss. The Estevan Peer Support Group meets on the fourth Wednesday of every month from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Estevan Public Library.
Regina Peer Support Group
This peer support group is for seniors who are experiencing vision loss. The topics discussed are relevant and chosen by the group to make sure that participants are getting the information that they require to live a full life. The Regina Peer Support Group on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Regina.
St. Albert Peer Group
The St. Albert 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. Fourth Thursday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. Mountain Time.
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.
Edmonton Men's Peer Support Group
Join our monthly Men's Peer Support group to discuss adapting to vision loss, learn about new technologies, and the services that CNIB has to assist, and also socialize with others going through the same thing.Second Wednesday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Edmonton.
Maritimes Adjusting To Sight Loss Group – Winter Series
Adjustment to Sight Loss (A2SL) is a 7-week virtual series where participants connect with others who are either new to sight loss or who have been living with it for some time and are now coming to terms with it. Hosted by Laura Bain and Natalie Fougere, these sessions will cover topics including mental health and sight loss, communication, advocacy, and independent living skills. The Adjustment to Sight Loss program is designed to give participants “tools for their toolbelt” as they continue their personal journey.
North Bay Sight Loss Connect
North Bay Sight Loss Connect is an in-person peer support group for people of all ages living with sight loss. The group offers a welcoming, relaxed space to connect with others who have lived experience, share ideas, and offer mutual support. In addition to open discussion, the group may include guest speakers and short presentations on topics such as accessibility, independence, assistive technology, community resources, relationships, and overall well-being. Whether someone is newly adjusting to sight loss or has years of experience, all are welcome at any stage of their journey. Join us to connect, learn, share, and support one another in a friendly, inclusive environment. Last Wednesday of every month from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at Marina Point Village (225 Oak Street West, North Bay).
Edmonton Men's Peer Support Group (Virtual)
Join our monthly Virtual Men's Peer Support group to discuss adapting to vision loss, learn about new technologies, and the services that CNIB must assist, and socialize with others going through the same thing. Fourth Wednesday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. via teleconference (phone).
Virtual Coffee Group
Join us every Friday for a virtual meet up in the prairies with a friendly bunch of people looking to connect with others across the country! Make new connections and find friendships and enjoyable conversation. The focus is on a positive, inclusive, and safe support network of people who have experienced sight loss. Everyone is welcome. Virtual Coffee Group meets every Friday from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Central Time on Zoom.
Friday Morning Coffee Group
The in-person Friday Coffee Group is back! Rekindle old friendships while making new ones, meet new people and have enjoyable conversations. This group offers a safe, positive social network for those that are blind or partially sighted. This group meets in-person at CNIB Winnipeg every Friday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Central Time. Every Friday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Central Time at CNIB Winnipeg .
Brandon Connects
This Peer Group is for individuals in the Brandon area that would like to come together to learn from others who have sight loss. This program allows for individuals to support one another in a safe social environment. Brandon Connects meets on the last Tuesday of every month from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Brandon & District United Way.
Ottawa Coffee & Chat
Join us for coffee or tea and great conversation. There will be guest speakers, interesting conversations and a chance to connect with your peers and community. Snacks and refreshments will be provided. Come on out, meet with your peers, let’s chat! March 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Eastern Time at the CNIB Ottawa Hub.
Dauphin Peer Support Group
A monthly support group in the Dauphin area to allow participants to make new connections and find friendships and enjoy conversation. The focus is on a positive, inclusive, and safe support network for people who have experienced sight loss. Last Wednesday of every month from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Dauphin Public Library (504 Main Street N, Dauphin).
Eastern Canada Social Meet Up
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.
Ottawa Coffee Group
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.
The Healing Leash: Honouring Guide Dog Loss
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.
Winnipeg Adjusting To Vision Loss – Spring Session
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.
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.
Winnipeg Adjusting To Vision Loss – Fall Session
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.
Winnipeg Adjusting To Vision Loss – Winter Session
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. The program aims to assist adults who are blind or partially sighted by providing support during their transition, enhancing their understanding of eye conditions, navigating life with vision loss, and accessing CNIB and community resources.