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 winter. 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
Alberta Health Care - Focus Groups: CNIB is hosting four online focus groups to learn more about the barriers people with blindness and sight loss face when accessing health care in Alberta. Your feedback will help improve health care accessibility in Alberta for everyone. You can expect an online meeting held via Zoom in a small group setting, where discussions will take place in a respectful and supportive environment. Your feedback will be combined with input from other participants to identify common barriers and themes in the healthcare system. This information will be used to create data and recommendations aimed at improving health care accessibility in Alberta. Please note that your name will not be connected to any of your comments. Please note that you would only need to attend one session. Choose the session that works best for you.
Focus Group #1: Tuesday, February 24 at 12 p.m. on Zoom. Register for the February 24 session.
Focus Group #2: Thursday, February 26 at 6:30 p.m. on Zoom. Register for the February 26 session.
Focus Group #3: Tuesday, March 3 at 12 p.m. on Zoom. Register for the March 3 session.
Focus Group #4: Thursday, March 5 at 6:30 p.m. on Zoom. Register for the March 5 session.
For more information or if you need help registering, please contact Taylor Bauer, Program Lead, Awareness and Community Outreach at Taylor.Bauer@cnib.ca or call 403-690-4691.
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.
Stronger Voices, Stronger Communities – AI Survey: CNIB’s Mobile Hub is shifting toward a more community-driven advocacy model, and your input will help shape what that looks like in your community. Our goal is to better understand the real accessibility challenges faced by people who are blind or have low vision, and to explore how we can work together to create This short survey is about your experiences, ideas, and priorities. This survey is about your experiences, ideas, and priorities. There are no right or wrong answers. What you share will directly influence future Mobile Hub activities and help us focus on the issues that matter most in your community. The AI-powered survey is designed to adapt to your responses in real time, providing a personalized and efficient experience while helping us gather deeper insights quickly and accurately. Please note: Microphone access is required to participate in this voice interview. Please allow access when prompted; and turn on any screen readers or assistive devices that may assist during this survey. Thank you for lending your voice to help make Alberta and Northwest Territories more inclusive and accessible for everyone. Click here to complete the survey.
Your Privacy Matters
We’ve received feedback from participants who have already participated in this survey, and we want to be transparent about how your information is handled:
• Voice recordings are encrypted and securely stored for a maximum of 30 days.
• None of the audio is available for anyone to access as it is stored in encrypted storage and only for the sake of legal or abuse compliance.
• The camera function is not required to complete the survey.
Supporting a Loved One with Sight Loss -A Practical Allyship Workshop: Wednesday, March 4, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Do you have a friend or family member with sight loss and want to feel more confident supporting them in everyday life? Join us for a friendly, informative workshop designed specifically for loved ones. In this session, we’ll explore what sight loss really means, discuss practical ways to offer support, and share tips on being a strong ally, at home, in public, and in moments that matter. Whether you’re new to sight loss or looking to deepen your understanding, this workshop will give you the tools, insight, and confidence to help your loved one thrive.
Children & Youth Programs
AATEC Summit - Empowering the Next Generation: Saturday May 23 & Sunday May, 24, time TBD at CNIB Calgary and via Zoom. Join AATEC & CNIB for the 3rd Annual AATEC Summit: Empowering the Next Generation! Join us for 2 days of resources and connection. While parents enjoy presentations and peruse resources- let your kids enjoy the "Youth Summit" to have fun and learn some age-appropriate leadership skills with AATEC's Youth Leaders!
CNIB, AATEC, & ASVI Family Social: Dates and times TBD at CNIB Calgary. Join CNIB, AATEC, & ASVI for an In-Person Family Social for the whole family! Join for a chance to enjoy food, fun and meet with other families as well as the Alberta Access to Education Coalition team. More information to be released through CNIB or through AATEC!
Parent Peer Group: Fourth Monday of every month, 6:30 - 8 p.m. via Zoom. Alberta Parent Peer Group brings together parents and experts for impactful discussions on topics that affect children and youth with sight loss and their families.
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Culture, Sport & Recreation Programs
Calgary Audiobook Club: First Tuesday of every month, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. via Teleconference. Calgary Audio Book club gets together on the first Tuesday of each month to discuss the books that we’ve read over the course of the month, highlight our favourites and give recommendations.
Calgary Café Nights: Friday, January 23 & Friday March 27, 6 - 8 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!
Edmonton Social Meet-Up: First Monday of every month, 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. at various locations. This group is for people between the ages of 18 to 35 who would like to meet up with others in the Edmonton area.
Western Canada Social Meet-Up: Every Thursday, 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 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.
Peer Support Programs
Unless otherwise noted, please contact Sam Huberty at Samuela.Huberty@cnib.ca to register or for more information.
Adjustment to Sight Loss: Wednesdays from January 14th to February 25th, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. The Adjustment to Sight Loss 7-week formal peer support program is a CNIB volunteer-led group for individuals who are blind or have low vision. The program platform is for participants to gain information, provide mutual support, and exchange valuable insights. It is an opportunity to connect with others who are navigating similar life experiences related to the adjustment of sight loss. To register, contact Dayna at Dayna.Fox@cnib.ca.
Airdrie Peer Support Group: Third Tuesday of every month, 6 - 7:30 p.m. at Hillside Church. Join this supportive group who meet to talk about issues surrounding vision loss. Please contact Sam Huberty at Samuela.Huberty@cnib.ca to register or for more information.
Calgary Yes & BS (Your Everyday Stuff & Brainstorming): Third Thursday of every month, 1 - 3 p.m. at CNIB Calgary. A monthly community-based support group to discuss issues relating to sight loss and to socialize with others. Guest speakers are occasionally invited to present on different topics.
Calgary 18-35 Peer Social Group: Last Wednesday of every month, 5 - 7 p.m. location varies. 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. Whether you’re looking to share experiences, try something new, or just hang out, this is your space to be yourself.
Camrose Peer Support Group: Second Monday of every month, 1 - 3 p.m. at the Church of God. This peer support group is for community members in the Camrose area to get together and chat about sight loss and their experiences.
Cochrane Peer Support Group: Second Tuesday of every month, 5 - 7 p.m at Cochrane Public Library. This peer support group is for community members in the Cochrane area to get together and chat about sight loss and their experiences.
Edmonton Men’s Peer Support Group: Second and fourth Wednesday of every month, 1 - 3 p.m. at CNIB Edmonton and via Zoom. Join this supportive group of men to discuss adapting to sight loss, learn about new technologies and services CNIB offers, and socialize with others going through a similar experience.
Edmonton Women’s Peer Support Group: First and third Thursday of every month, 1 - 3 p.m. at CNIB Edmonton. Join this supportive group of women to discuss adapting to sight loss, learn about new technologies and services CNIB offers, and socialize with others going through a similar experience.
Edmonton 18-35 Peer Support 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 Peer Support Group: Third Monday of every month, 6 - 8:30 p.m. This peer support group is for community members in the Grande Prairie area to get together and chat about sight loss and their experiences.
iOS Tech Support Group: Second Tuesday of every month from 5 - 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!
Lethbridge Sunshine Social Group: Third Monday of every month, 1 - 3 p.m. at McKillop United Church. This is a monthly community-based group to discuss issues relating to sight 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 - 3p.m. at CORE Association Boardroom. This peer support group is for community members in the Medicine Hat area to get together and chat about sight loss and their experiences.
Ponoka Peer Support Group: First Wednesday of every month, at St. Mary’s Anglican Church. 1 - 3 p.m. This peer support group is for community members in the Ponoka area to get together and chat about sight loss and their experiences.
Red Deer Peer Support Group - Visionaries: Second Wednesday of every month, 6 - 8 p.m. at ABC Country Restaurant. 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.
Sherwood Park Peer Support Group: 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. This group meets on the 3rd Wednesday of the month from 1 to 3 p.m.
Spruce Grove Peer Support Group: This is a supportive gathering where members can connect, share experiences, and encourage one another. We meet on the third Tuesday of each month from 1 - 3 p.m. 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: 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. This group meets on the 4th Thursday of the month from 1:00 to 3:00 PM.
Taber Peer Support Group: Third Tuesday of every month, 2 – 3 p.m. at Clearview Lodge. This peer support group is for community members in the Taber area to get together and chat about sight loss and their experiences.
Western Social Meet-Up Group: Every Thursday, 10 - 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.
Women’s Virtual Peer Support Group: Second Wednesday of every month, 7 - 8 p.m. via Zoom. Join this supportive group of women to discuss adapting to sight loss, learn about new technologies and services CNIB offers, and socialize with others going through a similar experience.
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.
CNIB SmartLife Tech @ Home: Explore cutting-edge assistive devices right in your own home! If you live in Alberta and want to try a wide range of accessible technology, look no further than our innovative program Tech @ Home. For more information about this program, please contact: Curtis Ruttle at (403) 407-1835 or Curtis.Ruttle@cnib.ca.
Let's Tech About It - Peer Support for All Things Devices: Thursday, January 22 & Thursday, February 26, 1 - 3 p.m. Join a friendly, inclusive space where people of all skill levels can learn, share, and grow their tech confidence. Whether you're new to devices or curious about advanced features, this group is here to help! Each session begins with a focused topic—like new tools, features, or tech tips—followed by open Q&A for your device-related questions. Bring your smartphone, tablet, or computer questions and learn alongside peers in a supportive environment. Let’s navigate the digital world together—one device at a time!
Reading Without Walls - Exploring Libby: Thursday, January 8, 1 - 2:30 p.m. via Zoom. Want to borrow eBooks, audiobooks, and magazines anytime, anywhere? Libby makes it easy to access thousands of library titles right from your smartphone, tablet, or computer—completely free with your library card. In this hands-on session, you’ll learn how to download, set up, and navigate the Libby app so you can start borrowing digital books right away. Whether you’re new to eBooks or a seasoned audiobook listener, this workshop covers all the essentials to help you get the most out of your library’s digital collection.
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 AI Series: Wednesday, March 4 & Wednesday, March 11, 1 - 3 p.m. at CNIB Calgary. Join the CNIB Calgary SmartLife Centre for a two-part AI series this March. On March 4, learn how artificial intelligence is shaping accessibility and everyday life. On March 11, take part in an interactive session with devices that have built-in AI features and see how they can support greater independence. Bring your iPhone, iPad, or Meta glasses to get the most from the session. Space is limited, so register today to explore how AI can help you live more independently. To register or for more information, please contact Meaghan.Hargave@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 Dayna Fox at Dayna.Fox@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 additional confirmed locations and dates, please visit www.cnib.ca/mobilehub.
Stronger Voices, Stronger Communities – AI Survey: This survey is about your experiences, ideas, and priorities. There are no right or wrong answers. What you share will directly influence future Mobile Hub activities and help us focus on the issues that matter most in your community. The AI-powered survey is designed to adapt to your responses in real time, providing a personalized and efficient experience while helping us gather deeper insights quickly and accurately. Click here to complete the survey now!
Community Corner
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: 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: Come play hockey with the Seeing Ice Dogs hockey team – where hockey has no limits! No experience necessary. Every Sunday at Rose Kohn Arena. Open to all ages and skill levels, the SeeHawks welcome blind and partially sighted participants to experience the excitement of hockey in a fun, inclusive environment. We provide the gear—you bring the energy! With weekend practices at the Downtown Community Arena and plenty of social events, tournaments, and fundraisers, you’ll be part of a dynamic and supportive team. Ready to get started? Contact us directly by phone at 780-863-7346, email EdmontonSeeHawks@gmail.com or visit our contact page to learn more!
Ski for Light Canada 2026: Monday, January 26 through Sunday, February 1 at William Watson Lodge in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. Ski for Light Canada is a week-long cross-country skiing event for blind and partially sighted adults. Each blind and low-vision participant has a dedicated, trained guide with whom they ski on the trails.