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.
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 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. CST 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 .
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.
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.
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.
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.
Ponoka White Caners 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 Ponoka area to get together and chat about successes, struggles, and resources when living with sight loss. First Wednesday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. at St. Mary's Anglican Church.
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.
Wellness Wednesdays
Join us for "Wellness Wednesdays" where we'll discuss a variety of topics focused on wellness. Presentations will be presented by the Canadian Mental Health Association of NB. Sessions are delivered virtually over Zoom on the first Wednesday of every month from 7 to 8 p.m. Atlantic Time.
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.
Victoria Connections Group
A community-based support group for Victoria area residents that offers ongoing emotional adjustment to vision loss support. First Thursday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. at the CNIB Victoria Hub.
Vancouver Working-Age Connections Group
A monthly community-based support group for Vancouver area residents (ages 30-55) that offers ongoing emotional adjustment to vision loss support. Guest speakers are occasionally invited to present on different topics. First Thursday of every month from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Pacific Time on Zoom
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.
The Flip Side
The Flip Side is a virtual group where participants experiencing vision loss can meet other members of the community and hear directly from them about their accomplishments and the barriers they have overcome in order to make those accomplishments. The Flip Side meets on the second Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.
Mississauga/Brampton Coffee and Chat Group
Join us for coffee and great conversation. An opportunity to talk with others living with sight loss. Hear from guest speakers, get new information, and share resources and tips. Come on out, meet with your peers, let’s chat! Second Wednesday of every month from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Burnhamthorpe Community Centre.
Edmonton Men's Peer Support Group
Join our biweekly 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. This is a hybrid program and participants can either join in-person at CNIB Edmonton or via teleconference. Second and fourth Wednesday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m.
Red Deer 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. Connect with others who are living with sight loss. Join us for coffee, conversation and support. The Red Deer Peer Support Group meets at Michener Hill Extendicare on the second Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Women's Virtual 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. Second Wednesday of every month from 7 to 8 p.m. via teleconference.
Algoma After Sight
Algoma After Sight is a welcoming virtual and in-person peer support group designed for individuals living with sight loss in the Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma district. Second Thursday of every month from 1 to 2 p.m. on Zoom.
Greater Sudbury Meet Up
Our group is dedicated to supporting residents of Greater Sudbury while fostering meaningful connections and conversations. Each session features a variety of engaging topics, including technology, library services, trips, accessible games, and much more in a welcoming social setting. We encourage participants to share their ideas, stay engaged, and enjoy learning and growing together. The Greater Sudbury Meet Up is a hybrid program that meets on the second Thursday of every month from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. in-person at CNIB Sudbury or virtually on Zoom.
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
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! Third Wednesday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Eastern Time at the CNIB Ottawa Hub.
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.
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.
Vancouver Island & Fraser Valley Connections Group
A community-based support group for Victoria and Abbotsford area residents that offers ongoing emotional adjustment to vision loss support. Second Thursday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. Pacific Time on Zoom.
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).
Kelowna Working-Age Connections Group
This community-based support group offers ongoing emotional adjustment to vision loss support. The group is open to participants in Kelowna ages 30-55. This group occasionally invites guest speakers to talk about subjects relating to vision loss. This peer support group meets at CNIB Kelowna on the first Wednesday of every month from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Pacific Time.
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.
Abbotsford Connections Group
A community-based support group for Abbotsford area residents that offers ongoing emotional adjustment to vision loss support. First Saturday of every month from 11am to 2 p.m. Pacific Time at the Seven Oaks Mall (32900 South Fraser Way #201, Abbotsford).
Brockville VIP Group
The Brockville VIP Group is a social support group for people living with vision loss in the Brockville area. Join us for coffee or tea and a light snack to socialize and connect with others who are living with vision loss. First Tuesday of every month (September to June) from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Wall Street United Church
Saskatoon Older Adult Peer Support Group
This program is designed for older adults who are blind or partially sighted to connect with others who are experiencing similar circumstances and to participate in social gatherings. The Saskatoon Older Adult Peer Support Group meets on the first Tuesday of every month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at LutherCare Tower.
Riverside Terrace Peer Support Group
This program is designed for individuals at Riverside Terrace who are blind or partially sighted to connect with others who are experiencing similar circumstances and to participate in social gatherings. The Riverside Terrace Peer Support Group meets on the first Thursday of every month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Riverside Terrace.
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.
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).