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 summer. 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
- Children & Youth Programs
- Culture, Sport & Recreation Programs
- Peer Support Programs
- CNIB SmartLife & Technology Programs
- Vision Mate
- CNIB Mobile Hub
- Community Corner
Advocacy Programs
Canada Post Accommodations - Info Sessions: July 7 & 8 via Zoom. CNIB is partnering with Canada Post to provide two information sessions on their Delivery Accommodation Program, including the types of accommodations available and how individuals can request them. For more information, please contact Gabriella Rabaa, Lead, Public Affairs at gabriella.rabaa@cnib.ca or call 1-800-563-2642. Register by filling out the online forms.
CNIB Advocacy Group: The CNIB Advocacy 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.
Children & Youth Programs
We kindly ask participants to register for programs at least one business day in advance.
Hello families! As the warm weather rolls in, we are eagerly preparing for another season of exciting summer camps. We would love to welcome your child to one of our day camps in Calgary – at no cost to you! Each camp will be held at a specific location and is designed for a certain age group, but please note that these are not strict limitations. We encourage you to read through the descriptions below and choose the camp that best suits your child's needs. If you're unsure which one is the right fit, please don’t hesitate to contact us, and we can help you decide!
Northern Alberta Programs – Children & Youth
CNIB Kids Summer Camps: August 4 to 6, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at CNIB Edmonton. Join peers for a fun and inclusive summer day camp experience designed for children ages 6–12 with Sight loss. Campers will enjoy a variety of activities including arts and crafts, recreation, music, games, and more while building friendships, confidence, and independence in a supportive environment. Please Note: There will be an off-site fieldtrip, location TBD.
CNIB Young Adult Day Camp: Thursday, August 27, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at CNIB Edmonton. Camp activities will take place throughout the community. Join fellow young adults for a fun and welcoming day camp experience. Connect with peers, build new friendships, and explore a variety of activities. This day camp offers a relaxed and supportive environment to socialize, try new things, and enjoy meaningful experiences together. Participants aged 18-21 are welcome.
CNIB Youth Summer Camps: August 18 to 20, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Stanley Milner Library in Edmonton. Join other teens for an engaging and inclusive summer day camp experience designed for youth ages 13–18 with sight loss. Participants will enjoy a variety of activities, including recreation, creative arts, music, team challenges, and social events, while building friendships, developing leadership skills, increasing independence, and exploring new interests in a supportive and welcoming environment. Please Note: There will be an off-site fieldtrip, location TBD.
Family Barbeque: July 2026 (final details will be sent to all registrants), 1 to 3 p.m., location TBD. We are excited to welcome all our families to a new program season. Why not kick it off with a cookout? Join old friends, make new connections, and get to know new staff during an event that will offer something for the entire family. This event will take place June 30th and is open to children and youth with sight loss ages 0-21 years and their families. Email sabrina.shaw@cnib.ca to register or for more details.
Southern Alberta Programs – Children & Youth
CNIB Children's Summer Camp (6-12) : August 4 to 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at CNIB Calgary. Join peers in a traditional summer day camp experience for ages 6-12! Offering a variety of activities such as sports, art, recreation, music, and more to foster important skills.
Please Note: There will be an off-site fieldtrip on the last day of camp, location TBD.
CNIB Youth Summer Camp (13-21) : August 18 to 20, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at CNIB Calgary. CNIB participants ages 13-21 years and their siblings of the same or similar age. Join peers in a traditional summer day camp experience for ages 13-21! Offering a variety of activities and an off-site field trip to help foster important skills. Please Note: There will be an off-site fieldtrip, location TBD.
Complex Needs: Summer Camp (6-15): August 25 & 26, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at CNIB Calgary. Explore sensory activities, build communication skills, and more! Please Note: All participants are required to attend camp with support of a 1:1 aide. Open to CNIB participants aged 6-15 years living with complex needs.
End of Summer Family BBQ Event: Sunday, August 23, time and location TBC. Details to come soon, stay tuned!
Young Adult Day-Camp (18-24): Thursday, August 27, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at CNIB Calgary. Who: CNIB participants ages 18-24 years and their siblings of the same or similar age. Please note: A portion of this day camp will be off-site! Location TBD.
All Alberta Programs – Children & Youth
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 or (587) 930-1558.
Culture, Sport & Recreation Programs
Edmonton Social Meet-up Group: 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 group gets together once a month for a couple of hours to socialize. To register, please contact Nicole Zastawny at nicole.zastawny@cnib.ca.
Edmonton Activity Group: Resuming in September. Last Tuesday of every month, 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Edmonton and varying locations. This group is aimed at fostering social interaction and providing a platform for individuals with sight loss to connect with others. To register, please contact Nicole Zastawny at nicole.zastawny@cnib.ca.
Building Bridges to Community: Sunday, June 28 from 1 to 3 pm, Sunday, July 19th from 10 to 1 pm , and Saturday, August 15 from 10 to 1 pm at various locations in and around Edmonton. 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, in Edmonton and the surrounding area, creating ongoing opportunities to connect through Indigenous ways of knowing. An opportunity to take part in accessible land base learning, drum teachings, dance facilitation, and medicine teachings from an Indigenous lens. To register, please contact Janessa Wood at janessa.wood@cnib.ca or 368-885-4767.
Peer Support Programs
We kindly ask participants to register for programs at least one business day before the start date.
Northern Alberta Peer Groups
Unless otherwise listed, please contact Nicole Zastawny for more information or to register, at nicole.zastwany@cnib.ca, or at 403-390-7091.
Camrose VIP Support Group: Resuming in September. Second Monday of every month, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. This peer support group is for community members in the Camrose area to get together and chat about successes, struggles and resources when living with sight loss.
Edmonton Men’s Support Group: Resuming in September. Second and fourth Wednesday of every month, 1 to 3 p.m. in person and virtual. Join our biweekly 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.
Edmonton Women’s Support Group (In Person): On break in July and August and resuming in September. First and third Thursday of every month, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Join this supportive group of women who meet to talk about issues surrounding vision loss. Join this supportive group of women who meet to talk about issues surrounding vision loss.
Edmonton 18-35 Group: 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 group gets together once a month for a couple of hours to socialize.
Grande Prairie Support Group: Resuming in September. Last Monday of every month, 6 to 8:30 p.m. This peer support group is for community members in the Grande Prairie area to get together and chat about vision loss and their experiences.
Ponoka White Caners Peer Support Group: On break in July and August and resuming in September. First Wednesday of every month, 1 to 3 p.m. This peer support group is for community members in the Ponoka area to get together and chat about vision loss and their experiences. This group does not meet in December and January.
Sherwood Park Peer Support Group: On break in July and August and resuming in September. Third Wednesday of every month, 1 to 3 p.m. This 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: On break in July and August and resuming in September. Third Tuesday of every month, from 1 to 3 p.m. This 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: On break in July and August and resuming in September. Fourth Thursday of every month, 1 to 3 p.m. This 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.
Southern Alberta Peer Groups
Unless otherwise listed, please contact Kate Williams for more information or to register, at kate.williams@cnib.ca, or at 403-614-4192.
Airdrie Peer Support Group: Third Tuesday of every month, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Hillside Church in Airdrie. Join this supportive group who meet to talk about issues surrounding vision loss.
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: On break in July and August and resuming in September. 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.
iOS Support Group: Second Tuesday of every month, 5 to 6:30 p.m. via teleconference. If you need help with your iOS device or just want to talk tech join our group to learn more or share your expertise! Call in information will be shared after registering.
Lethbridge Sunshine Social – Support Group: On break in July and August, resuming in September. Third Monday of every month, 2 to 3 p.m. at McKillop United Church in 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 CORE Association Ballroom in Medicine Hat. Join this new group to talk about issues surrounding vision loss.
Taber Peer Support Group: Third Tuesday of every month, 2 to 3:30 p.m. at Clearview Lodge. 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 in 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 : On break for July and August, resuming in September. Every Thursday, 10 to 11:30 a.m. via Zoom or teleconference. Join us for our weekly social meet up group. We’ll get to know each other, share some good news stories, and socialize. Zoom information will be shared after registering.
Virtual Alberta Peer Groups:
Virtual Edmonton Men’s Support Group: On break in July and August and resuming in September. Fourth Wednesday of every month, 1 to 3 p.m. via teleconference. 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. Please contact Nicole Zastawny for more information or to register, at nicole.zastwany@cnib.ca, or at 403-390-7091.
Women's Virtual Peer Support Group: Resuming in September. Second Wednesday of every month, 4 to 5 p.m. Join this supportive group of women who meet to talk about issues surrounding vision loss. Please contact Nicole Zastawny for more information or to register, at nicole.zastwany@cnib.ca, or at 403-390-7091.
Western Canada Social Meet-Up Group: Resuming in September. Every Thursday at 10 a.m. via Zoom. This is a general social chat group that meets to chat about anything they feel like. Topics could include local news, weather, books people have read, current events, technology or whatever the group wants to chat about. Please contact Kate Williams for more information or to register, at kate.williams@cnib.ca, or at 403-614-4192.
CNIB SmartLife & Technology Programs
We kindly ask participants to register for programs at least one business day before the start date.
Accessible Technology: Accessible technology plays a crucial role in the lives of individuals experiencing sight loss by promoting greater independence and inclusivity in daily life. These tools are designed to cater to diverse needs, allowing users to engage with everyday tasks more confidently and efficiently. Whether it's managing schedules, communicating, or navigating the environment, accessible apps and devices ensure that individuals can fully participate in all aspects of life. By fostering accessibility, these technologies empower individuals to live with greater autonomy, enhance their quality of life, and stay connected to the world around them. For further information about the programs listed below or to access technology support, please contact the appropriate regional representative.
For Calgary and Southern Alberta, please reach out to Meaghan Hargrave at meaghan.hargrave@cnib.ca.
For Edmonton and Northern Alberta, please contact Malik Omar at malik.omar@cnib.ca.
They will be happy to provide additional details and support based on your location and needs.
Calgary Summer of Navigation Series - Exploring Blindsquare: Thursday, August 12, 1 to 2:30 p.m. at CNIB Calgary or via Zoom. Discover how BlindSquare can help you navigate and learn about your surroundings with greater confidence and independence. In this interactive session, we'll explore the app's key features, including location awareness, points of interest, route guidance, and integration with GPS and other accessibility tools. Participants will have the opportunity to share tips, ask questions, and learn practical ways to use BlindSquare in everyday travel and orientation. Whether you're new to the app or looking to expand your skills, this session will provide useful insights and hands-on learning opportunities. To register, please contact Meaghan Hargrave at meaghan.hargrave@cnib.ca.
Calgary Summer of Navigation Series - Travelling with Google Maps: Thursday, September 9, 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Calgary or via Zoom.
Join us for the first session in our Summer of Navigation Series as we explore how people who are blind or low vision can use Google Maps to travel more confidently and independently. We'll cover essential features such as searching for destinations, accessing turn-by-turn navigation, exploring nearby points of interest, and using accessibility features to support both pedestrian and transit travel. This interactive session will include demonstrations, practical tips, and opportunities for participants to share their own experiences and questions. Whether you're new to Google Maps or looking to strengthen your navigation skills, this session will help you get more from one of the world's most popular navigation tools. To register, please contact Meaghan Hargrave at meaghan.hargrave@cnib.ca.
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.
Let's Tech About It: The 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.
Tech@Home Program: Clients can 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.
Unleashing the Power of OOrion: Find, Explore, Navigate: Thursday, July 9, 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Calgary or via Zoom. Curious about how artificial intelligence can help you locate everyday items and better understand your surroundings? Join us for an interactive workshop exploring OOrion, an innovative accessibility app designed to help blind and low-vision users identify, locate, and navigate to objects using their smartphone or compatible smart glasses. During this session, participants will learn about OOrion's key features, including object finding, scene awareness, custom object recognition, and hands-free use with smart glasses. We'll discuss practical use cases, share tips and tricks, and explore how OOrion compares to other popular accessibility tools such as Seeing AI and Be My Eyes. Whether you're new to AI-powered accessibility tools or looking to expand your technology toolkit, this session offers a great opportunity to discover how OOrion can support greater independence in everyday life. No prior experience with the app is required. To register, please contact Meaghan Hargrave at meaghan.hargrave@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 contact Kate Williams at Kate.Williams@cnib.ca.
CNIB Mobile Hub
CNIB on the Road – the CNIB Mobile Hub is coming to a community near you. Drop in to meet CNIB staff and learn more about free programs and resources for people who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision. Enjoy a day of recreational and social activities, technology workshops, and much more. Experience the latest breakthroughs in assistive tech from CNIB SmartLife and connect with other members of the sight loss community. We’d love for you to join us when we visit your community! For confirmed locations and dates, please visit www.cnib.ca/mobilehub.
Community Corner
AATEC Parent Peer Group: Fourth Monday of every month, 6:30 to 8 p.m. via Zoom. Come together with other parents and experts for impactful discussions on topics that affect children and youth with sight loss and their families. Upcoming Topics: June: Independent Living Skills at Home (Vision Loss Rehab)
Register Here: https://cnib.tfaforms.net/4882386?tfa_7=701ON00000N6gIlYAJ
Calgary Blind Hockey with the Seeing Ice Dogs (ASRAB): Every Sunday, 8:30 p.m. – 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 Blind Hockey: Get involved! Camrose Blind Hockey is currently looking for individuals interested in trying blind hockey and/or volunteering. The goal in mind is to have full time adult and youth programs running and competing at local, provincial and national levels! Ideally, they would like to recruit 10-20 people that would be able to regularly participate in an open ice/free use practice/scrimmage once a month. For more information regarding fees and potential arena schedule, you can contact Hans at camrosecaninesblindhockey@gmail.com. Please use Camrose Blind Hockey as your subject line and include your contact information, experience level, age, and desired playing position.