Join us! Our free programs are available to people who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision as well as their families, friends and caregivers. Below, you'll find a snapshot of programs offered across the province throughout the fall. Schedule may be subject to change. We kindly ask participants to register for programs at least one business day before the start date.
For program offerings available nationwide, explore our online calendar.
- Advocacy Programs
- Next Generation Programs
- Peer Support Programs
- CNIB SmartLife & Technology Programs
- Vision Mate
- CNIB Mobile Hub
- Community Corner
Advocacy Programs
CNIB Advocacy Team: This team amplifies the voices of people who are blind or partially sighted by raising awareness, challenging misconceptions, and inspiring change in communities across Alberta. This work cannot be done without the help of volunteers. From classrooms to city hall or speaking to corporations, our Community Engagement Volunteers provide public education and advocacy to help raise awareness about key issues facing the sight loss community and create positive change for people who are blind or low vision. If you are interested in becoming a Community Engagement Volunteer or learning more about how you can get involved, please reach out to Taylor.Bauer@cnib.ca.
CNIB Ambassador: Through CNIB Advocacy, our volunteer Ambassadors share their stories and deliver educational presentations to external groups covering topics like Blindness etiquette, Accessibility and Inclusion, Guide Dogs, Accessible Technology, Braille literacy, CNIB programs and services, and so much more. Presentations are delivered in-person or virtually to businesses, classrooms, healthcare spaces, community groups, governments, senior residences, social gatherings, workplaces, and more. Help us break down barriers by requesting a CNIB Ambassador Presentation by reaching out to Rishma.Mawani@cnib.ca.
Next Generation Programs
Northern Alberta:
Edmonton First Responders Meet-n-Greet (Ages 0-21): Date and time TBC. Bring the family to meet the first responders in a way that’s accessible to children & youth with sight loss! Learn about their badges and uniforms, their vehicles and sirens, how they can help you, and what to expect if you ever need to give them a call. Planned by youth for youth by the AATEC Provincial Youth Planning Committee.
3D Printing STEM Program: Ready to create, design, and innovate? Join our 3D STEM Innovation Program, where youth with sight loss will explore 3D printing, accessible design, and hands-on technology. Participants will learn how to design and print their own creations while developing problem-solving, creativity, and STEM skills. We encourage you to join if you already have a knowledge of 3D Printing or if you are just interested to learn!
Southern Alberta:
Alt Route: Accessible Skateboarding (7-24): Every Sunday from October 25 to January 10, 4 to 7 p.m. at The Compound YYC (4303 9 St SE) Alt Route is proud to present the second year of our brand-new, fully structured Accessible Skateboarding Camp! Unlike any program Alt Route has offered before, this multi-session camp has been carefully designed based on participant feedback. It features skilled, certified coaches and aims to help participants develop new skills or build on existing ones in a supportive, fun, and inclusive environment. This program is crafted to challenge and empower you in a safe and supportive environment. Each session will offer new learning opportunities, and we’ll wrap up with a demo event where participants can showcase their progress! We extend a huge thank you to the Calgary Flames Foundation for funding this year's program. Dates are subject to minor changes and will be communicated to registered individuals.
Please Note:
- If you are new to our program and need equipment, we are able to provide you with brand new pads and a helmet at no charge to you! Skateboards are loaned each session through the Compound YYC.
- Program space is limited to 25 participants, so register as soon as you can to secure your spot!
- Our volunteers provide one-to-one support to help participants engage in the program. However, we are unable to provide specialized supports for individuals with significant mobility needs or those who require a higher level of personal assistance than our program is designed to offer.
Please email Curtis.Ruttle@cnib.ca with any questions or concerns.
Calgary Braille Tutoring Club (6-12): One Friday per month from 6 to 7 p.m. at CNIB Calgary. Registered families will receive an update once dates are officially set. Does your child need a little help practicing braille outside of school? Join CNIB Calgary for the new Braille Tutoring Club! Run by volunteer braille transcribers and youth braille users, they can help children practice their braille skills through games, activities, and more. This program is aimed at children ages 6 to 12. Please note that our volunteers are unable to teach braille, provide direct learning supports, or support with specific homework - this program is solely for practicing and reinforcing braille literacy skills.
Calgary First Responders Meet-n-Greet (Ages 0-21): Saturday, October 17, 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Calgary. Bring the whole family to meet the first responders in a way that’s accessible to children & youth with sight loss! Learn about their badges and uniforms, their vehicles and sirens, how they can help you, and what to expect if you ever need to give them a call. Planned by youth for youth by the AATEC Provincial Youth Planning Committee.
All-Alberta:
Parent Peer Group: Fourth Monday of every month, 6:30 to 8 p.m. via Zoom. f you are a parent with a child with sight loss in the Alberta region, we invite you to come together with other parents and experts for impactful discussions on topics that affect children and youth with sight loss in our province. This group provides a space where parents and caregivers can connect with others who have similar experiences and discover helpful resources in the community.
Provincial Groups Provincial Youth Planning Committee: Third Monday of every month, 5 to 6 p.m. via Zoom. We are looking for Youth Leaders (ages 14–21) to help plan activities, share ideas, and shape programs for their peers. Supported through a collaboration between CNIB and AATEC, this group provides youth with opportunities to develop leadership skills, build connections, and make a meaningful impact in their community. To register, contact Sabrina Shaw at Sabrina.Shaw@cnib.ca.
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Peer Support Programs
Unless otherwise stated, please contact Kate Williams, Senior Manager, Programs and Operations at kate.williams@cnib.ca to register or for additional information.
Northern Alberta:
Camrose VIPs: Second Monday of every month, 1 to 3 p.m. at Church of God, Camrose. In-Person peer support for individuals with sight loss within the Camrose and area offering social connection, information sharing, and support.
Edmonton Men's Peer Support Group: Second Wednesday of each month, 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Edmonton. 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.
Edmonton Women's Peer Support Group: Schedule: First and third Thursday of every month, 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Edmonton. 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.
Grande Prairie Peer Support Group: Last Monday of every month, 6 to 8:30 p.m. at Cairn Building (10405 102 St, Grande Prairie). 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.
Men's Virtual Peer Support Group: Fourth Wednesday of each month, 1 to 3 p.m. via Zoom. Edmonton Men’s Support Group: 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.
Ponoka White Caners: First Wednesday of each month, 1 to 3 p.m. at St. Mary’s Church, Ponoka. In Person peer support for individuals with sight loss in the Ponoka area offering social connection, information sharing, and support.
Sherwood Park Peer Support Group: Third Wednesday of each month, 1 to 3 p.m. at Strathcona County Community Centre (401 Festival Lane, Sherwood Park). 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.
Spruce Grove Peer Support Group: Third Tuesday of each month, 1 to 3 p.m. via 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.
St. Albert Peer Support Group: Fourth Thursday of each month, 1 to 3 p.m. at St. Albert Legion. 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.
Women's Virtual Peer Support Group: Second Wednesday of each month, 7 to 8 pm. via Zoom. 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.
18 – 35 Recreation Peer Group: Dates, times & locations variable. If you are between the ages of 18-35 yrs and would like to meet up with others this group is for you. They meet every other month for a couple of hours to support each other and have fun.
Southern Alberta:
Unless otherwise stated, please contact Melissa Shrestha at Melissa.Shrestha@cnib.ca or 368-889-4804 to register or for additional information.
Airdrie Peer Support Group: Third Tuesday of every month, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Hillside Church, Airdrie. Join this supportive group who meet to talk about issues surrounding vision loss. Airdrie Peer Group will be at the Hillside Church in Airdrie, on the third Tuesday of the month from 6:00pm-7:30pm.
Calgary Café Night: Friday, September 25, 6:30 to 9 p.m. at CNIB Calgary. Welcome to our CNIB Café Night! Join us for an evening of great company, live music, coffee and snacks at the Calgary CNIB office. Listen to our talented volunteer band or participate during our open mic portion of the evening, we’d be so happy to have you!
Calgary – Yes and BS Support Group (Your Everyday Stuff and Brainstorming): Third Thursday of every month, 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Calgary. A monthly community-based support group to discuss issues relating to vision loss and to socialize with others. Guest speakers are occasionally invited to present on different topics.
Cochrane Peer Support Group: Second Tuesday of every month, 5 to 7 p.m. at Cochrane Public Library. Join us at the Cochrane Public Library on the second Tuesday of each month to connect with others and discuss issues relating to vision loss. Guest speakers are occasionally invited to present on different topics.
Lethbridge Sunshine Social Support Group: Third Monday of every month, 2 to 3 p.m at McKillop United Church, Lethbridge. 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.
Medicine Hat Peer Support Group: Fourth Wednesday of every month, 1 to 3 p.m. at Chinook Village, Medicine Hat. Join this new group to talk about issues surrounding vision loss.
Taber: Third Tuesday of every month, 2 to 3 p.m. at Clearview Lodge, Taber. Peer Support Group supporting the residents of Taber.
Visionaries - Red Deer Peer Support Group: Second Wednesday of every month, 6 to 8 p.m. at ABC Country Restaurant, Red Deer. 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.
Western Social Meet-Up Group: Every Thursday, 10 to 11:30 a.m. via Zoom. Join us for our weekly social meet up group. We’ll get to know each other, share some good news stories, and socialize. The Western Social Meet Up meets every Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m. Mountain Time on Zoom. Zoom information will be shared after registering.
CNIB SmartLife & Technology Programs
CNIB SmartLife: Home to a myriad of accessible technologies and devices, CNIB SmartLife is an interactive retail and lifestyle experience like no other. CNIB SmartLife is committed to emboldening people with sight loss to lead independent, active lives and helping them gain access to life-changing technology. CNIB SmartLife is Canada’s largest retailer of assistive products for people with sight loss, serving over 20,000+ people a year. CNIB SmartLife offers services both online and in physical spaces, as well as a variety of accessible technology programs. All proceeds from CNIB SmartLife go to supporting CNIB’s life-changing programs for people with sight loss across Canada.
The CNIB SmartLife Tech @ Home program allows clients to borrow magnifiers or OCR devices for one week to test them out and determine if they’re a good fit. For more information about this program, please contact Curtis Ruttle; at (403) 407-1835 or Curtis.Ruttle@cnib.ca.
Tech Hotline: Clients can either call our Contact Centre or book a 1:1 virtual session with a technology specialist using the link below. Support is available on a wide range of technology-related topics. Call our Contact Centre at 1-800-563-2642 or the Online Booking Form.
Let’s Tech About It: Fourth Thursday of every month, 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Calgary. Join Let's Tech About It, a welcoming peer support group where participants can ask questions, share experiences, and learn about smartphones, tablets, computers, and other technology. Whether you're new to technology or looking to expand your skills, this is a great opportunity to explore new tools, discover helpful tips, and connect with others in a supportive environment. To register, please contact Meaghan Hargrave at Meaghan.Hargrave@cnib.ca.
iOS Support Group: Second Tuesday of every month, 5 to 6:30 p.m. If you need help with your iOS device or just want to talk tech join our group to learn more or share your expertise! This technology group meets via tele-conference on the second Tuesday of the month from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Mountain Time. To register, please contact Meaghan Hargrave at Meaghan.Hargrave@cnib.ca.
Accessible Technology Training – Alberta North: Ongoing by appointment through the Edmonton office. Individual training is available for participants who need support with iPhone, Android, Meta smart glasses, computers, laptops, and other accessible technologies. To book an appointment,
contact Malik Omar at 587-920-4069 or Malik.Omar@cnib.ca.
Mastering Zoom on the Go: Thursday, October 8, 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Calgary or via Zoom. Join us for a practical session on using Zoom on your smartphone or tablet. Learn how to join meetings, use audio and video controls, navigate Zoom, and adjust basic settings. This session is suitable for beginners and anyone looking to build confidence using Zoom on a mobile device. Please bring your fully charged smartphone or tablet. Registration is limited. Register to save your seat here.
Mastering Zoom on Your Computer: Thursday, November 12, 2026, 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Calgary or via Zoom. Join us for a practical session on using Zoom on your desktop or laptop computer. Learn how to join meetings, use audio and video controls, navigate Zoom, and adjust basic settings. This session is suitable for beginners and anyone looking to build confidence using Zoom on a computer. Please bring your laptop if attending in person. Space is limited for in-person attendance. Register to save your seat here.
Phone It Forward: Smartphones may be available to clients experiencing sight loss who are in financial need. Eligibility is assessed individually by Malik based on the participant’s circumstances, needs, and goals, as well as device availability. For more information about either program, please contact Malik Omar at 587-920-4069 or Malik.Omar@cnib.ca.
Vision Mate
The Vision Mate program matches people who are blind or partially sighted with sighted volunteers who provide companionship and one-on-one assistance with everyday tasks and errands. Activities you and your match do together are based on your needs and interests! Vision Mate volunteers can assist individuals with various activities, including errands, going for walks, labelling and organizing household items, reading, or fun outings and recreational activities. Matches are made with someone who lives close to your home, school or work. Visits are typically one or two hours a week in the person’s home or another suitable place at a mutually convenient time. This program is also available virtually – with matches connecting by phone or online. For more information or to register, email Melissa.Shrestha@cnib.ca or call 368-889-4804.
CNIB Mobile Hub
Join CNIB for an Advocacy Hub in your community! This interactive event is designed to connect people who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision with CNIB services, accessible technology, advocacy resources, and one another.
The goal of a Phase 1 Advocacy Hub is to introduce CNIB to communities where services may be limited, help participants build skills and confidence, and learn directly from community members about the barriers and opportunities that exist locally.
- What to Expect
Advocacy & Community Discussion
Advocacy starts with understanding your rights, building confidence, and learning how to make your voice heard. - CNIB Programs, Services & Peer Connections
Learn about the programs, services, and supports available through CNIB, while connecting with others who share similar lived experiences. - SmartLife Technology Demonstration
Explore accessible technology designed to support independence at home, work, school, and in the community.
For more information, please contact Nicole at Nicole.Zastawny@cnib.ca.
Community Corner
Calgary Blind Hockey with the Seeing Ice Dogs (ASRAB) : Every Sunday, 8 to 9:30 p.m. at the Rose Kohn Arena (502 Heritage Drive SW). Come play hockey with the Seeing Ice Dogs hockey team. No experience necessary. For people 18+, but youth can participate if parents accompany them at the arena. Sign up by contacting the Calgary Program Coordinator with your name and phone number.
Camrose Canines Blind Hockey: Camrose Canines is a blind hockey team based out of Camrose, Alberta, for all ages. Building hockey skills, teaching how to play blind hockey, and connecting individuals with different degrees of visual loss. For more information, please contact CamroseCaninesBlindHockey@gmail.com.
Edmonton SeeHawks Blind Hockey Team: Edmonton SeeHawks Blind Hockey is an organization founded in 1979. In 2022, we expanded our program to include the Edmonton Junior SeeHawks. Based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, our dedicated team of volunteers, coaches, and supporters share a common goal: to make hockey a sport that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their level of vision. Our mission is to provide an inclusive and empowering environment for individuals with visual impairments to experience the joy and camaraderie of ice hockey, promoting accessibility and breaking down barriers within the hockey community – click here for details. To register, please contact: EdmontonSeeHawks@gmail.com.
Best Kept Secrets for Travelers With Sight Loss is the first book designed to give travelers who are blind or have low vision practical tools to make travel safe, accessible, and enjoyable. It offers advice on planning and packing, traveling by plane, train, or ship, navigating unfamiliar places, staying in hotels, dining out, traveling with a guide dog, and using apps and technology to make trips easier. Author Lynn Jensen, a certified vision rehabilitation therapist who lost her sight shortly after earning her nursing degree, shares insights drawn from her own extensive travel experiences around the world. The book is available in paperback (regular and large print), e-book, and audiobook (MP3 and DAISY) formats. You can purchase a copy through major online retailers or directly through the official website, BlindTravelTips.com.