Upcoming Events

Are you currently serving on an accessibility advisory committee in your community, workplace or with an organization? CNIB is creating a new national network to connect, support, and strengthen the work of accessibility advocates across the country, and we’d love for you to be a part of it!

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.

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.

This program is designed to provide support for Indigenous people who are blind or partially sighted through traditional teachings and empowerment in a safe, welcoming environment. Participants will have the opportunity to participate in accessible land-based learning, engage with facilitators from a variety of backgrounds, and build meaningful relationships within their community. The program will meet in person once a month, creating ongoing opportunities to connect through Indigenous ways of knowing.

Visit new attractions in Manitoba and meet new people. These outings are year-round and inclusive to all. Events and dates vary.

Sports without limits! Exciting news for all lawn bowling enthusiasts – Canadian Pacific Lawn Bowling Club in Victoria has generously opened their greens for our participants, offering free access to this enjoyable sport. Put on your safe shoes and get ready to roll! Whether you're a seasoned player or brand new to the game, this is a fantastic opportunity to get involved, stay active, and enjoy some great company. The CNIB Lawn Bowling Club meets every month at the Canadian Pacific Lawn Bowling Club (720 Belleville Street, Victoria). Dates and times TBC.

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 TD Summer Reading Club is a free, accessible reading program designed to keep kids engaged in reading all summer long through activities, rewards, and celebrations of their achievements. Co-created and delivered by more than 2,200 public libraries across Canada and online, the club highlights Canadian authors and illustrators while encouraging children to discover the joy of reading. Kids and families can explore books from the recommended reads list, track their reading progress, and participate in fun activities offered both online and in-person.

Come join us on alternating Fridays for our Song Bingo Game Night! All you need to participate is access to phone or Zoom and a bingo card at home or online! Feel free to play as a family or house! There will be prizes for the first 3 bingo winners of each game and those who correctly name the most tunes! This program is open to participants of all ages. Song Bingo Game Night meets on Zoom on alternating Friday's from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Pacific Time.

Introducing CNIB Discovery Saturdays! Each month we will explore different skill areas to expand our horizons and connect with peers. Skills we will explore include art, technology, sports and more! This program is for younger children in grades 1 to 5. We will have a combination of days in the office as well as outings. Discovery Saturdays will now be offered 2 times monthly, typically on the first and third Saturday of the month (dependent on holidays) at CNIB Winnipeg.

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.

Are you an iPhones user and looking to learn VoiceOver? This four-week program will teach you the basics for navigating your iPhone and teach you simple tricks and tools for making and ending calls sending messages and having your questions answered by Siri. Monday, July 6, 13, 20 and 27 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at The Nanji Family Foundation CNIB SmartLife Centre (CNIB Bayview). 

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).

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 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.

Enjoy a customizable week of lake activities, creativity, and connection, all surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Joseph and Muskoka.

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. 

The CNIB Mobile Hub visits Brooks, Alberta on Monday, July 20 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Brooks Public Library (323 1 Street East, Brooks).

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.

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.

Join us at Point Pleasant Park for a friendly group walk designed to be welcoming for all. Volunteers are available to provide sighted guide support, so everyone can take part with ease. It’s a simple way to get outside, meet others, and enjoy the park together. After the walk, relax at the picnic tables with some light refreshments. Every Tuesday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Point Pleasant Park (5530 Point Pleasant Drive, Halifax).

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.

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.

Our fabulous volunteers Rita, Lawrence, Elaine, and Megan want to invite you to the Midsummer Ice Cream Social atHolman's Ice Cream Parlour! Join us on Tuesday, July 21 from 1 to 3 p.m. for a scoop of fresh Island ice cream and time to connect with others. 

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 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at CNIB Halifax.

The search for a new location for the CNIB GTA Community Hub is now underway, and we’re hosting two virtual consultations to hear what matters most to our community. We want your input and ideas on location, transportation, accessibility, space layout, programming, and the features that would make the future home of the Hub a welcoming and inclusive community space. Session #1: Tuesday, July 21 from 1 to 3 p.m. on Zoom. Session #2: Wednesday, July 22 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Zoom

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). 

Let’s give a warm welcome to our newest team member in the NS Office, our summer placement, Rowyn! To kick off this event, Rowyn will share two truths and one lie about herself, and we’ll have to guess which one is the lie. After she tells us a bit about herself and her new role, we’ll open the floor for anyone who wants to join in the fun with their own truths and lies! Tuesday, July 21 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Atlantic Time on Zoom.

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 at the Spruce Grove Public Library Central Branch (35 5 Ave., Spruce Grove).

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. 

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. 

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).

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. 

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. 

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.

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.

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 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Hillside Church (2903 Kingsview Blvd SE #209, Airdrie).