Upcoming Events

This newsletter is for those interested in virtual or in person programs that are run specifically out of the Ontario West region.

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.

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.

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. 

We’re excited to offer three 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.

Share your POV (Point of View)! We can all be part of the solution when it comes to showcasing what people who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision are capable of doing. When you lead by example, you are not only helping educate the public about what accessible, inclusive and adaptive living looks like; you are helping those who are new to the community (and their families) in accessing valuable and life changing perspectives and information.

A variety of exercises are included in the exercise hours program; participants will perform simple motions in certain sessions, while some sessions will take place in the water. Every other Thursday (subject to change) from 6 to 7 p.m, at the at the YMCA Building (5939 Rochdale Blvd., Regina)

The Braille Institute's Braille Challenge is the only academic competition of its kind in North America for students who are blind or partially sighted. Contestants compete in regional preliminary Braille Challenge events from January through March, and the top 50 students (10 in each category) with the highest scores are then invited to compete in the finals. Test your braille skills in the Ontario Regional Braille Challenge 2026! Registration deadline: January 9, 2026.

Put down the textbooks and join CNIB this summer for this unique all-expenses-paid opportunity! SCORE (Skills, Confidence & Opportunities through Recreation & Education) is a fun, skills-based summer experience for youth who are blind or have low vision. Participants build confidence, independence, and teamwork skills through hands-on activities, workshops, and outdoor fun while connecting with peers and mentors from across the country. Apply now to CNIB Learning Academy’s SCORE program to secure an admissions interview!

Braille Quest: a fun braille literacy adventure (with prizes!) Put your braille skills to the test, at home or school! Complete fun challenges for a chance to win a prize. Do a few Braille Quest activities, or do them all! Do as many activities as you like from January to mid-March, 2026.

A fast and fun way to kick off a year of Braille Literacy in January 2026! We’re looking for tactile, fun, and creative artworks that feature braille. Show us your craftiest creations! Create your name or a few of your favourite words in braille! Instead of fingertip-sized dots, think big and creative, maybe Timbit or basketball braille. Open to elementary and secondary students across Canada, English and French entries welcome. For students curious about braille and those who already use it!

Write a short story, essay, or poem on any topic or re-purpose something you've written for school this year! Show off your creative writing talents for a chance to win cash prizes. The contest is open to primary and secondary students (grades K-12) who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision and live in Canada. 

We are looking for Youth Leaders (14-21) in Calgary, Edmonton, or surrounding areas interested in getting involved with planning activities for their peers! 

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!

A coffee chat opportunity to get caught up and make new friends. All are welcome. Third Wednesday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Atlantic Time at the Champlain Mall Food Court (477 Paul Street, Dieppe).

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. 

CNIB SmartLife Coach, Sara Salo, and technology volunteers are here to help participants get familiarized with SmartLife Assistive Technology, to assist with making smartphones and tablets more accessible and to recommend and offer demos on accessibility apps. Online training is also available upon request. Appointments are available Tuesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at CNIB Thunder Bay.

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.

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.

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.

Book some time to play today! Join us on Wednesdays from 2 to 3 p.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering. 

Registration now full.

Come and join us at the Ottawa Hub for some Yoga. We aim to teach poses, correct positioning and build on the skills each week. Every Wednesday (January 7 to February 25) from 2 to 3 p.m. at the CNIB Ottawa Community Hub.

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.

Love photography? Whether you're a pro with your camera or just learning to use the photo app on your smartphone, our club is the perfect place for you. We're all about discovering creative ways to capture moments as photographers who are blind or have low vision. Together, we'll teach and share tips, tricks, and techniques to make the most of our devices and inspire each other with the photos we take. Third Wednesday of every month from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

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). 

This class is designed for beginners or anyone seeking a calming, slower-paced practice, this class will help stretch, strengthen, and calm your body. With a focus on breathing, relaxation, and meditation, you’ll release tension and increase flexibility. Every Wednesday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

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.

Would you like to sit down with a coffee and a pal to learn the tech that will make vision loss easier? Come join us for a Tech Cafe Primer. We’ll spend some time “in class" followed by some 1:1 work and group learning. We'll share some learning - and some laughs - together! Third  Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Q3 Creative Business Hub. 

Who's got talent? You do! Join us on alternating Wednesdays, 7-8 p.m. Eastern Time to perform (if you wish) and/or enjoy the talents of fellow attendees.

This is a virtual group that gets together every Thursday morning for a general group conversation. There is no planned topic of conversation but it is kept positive and light! Every Thursday from 10:30 to 12:30 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.

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

CNIB SmartLife Coach, Sara Salo, and technology volunteers are here to help participants get familiarized with SmartLife Assistive Technology, to assist with making smartphones and tablets more accessible and to recommend and offer demos on accessibility apps. Online training is also available upon request. Appointments are available Tuesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at CNIB Thunder Bay.

If you're interested in learning how to play the guitar or ukulele—or if you want to advance your skills—the Toronto Guitar and Ukulele Lessons are here for you! This in-person program takes place every Thursday at the Toronto Hub location. Feel free to bring your own guitar or ukulele, but one will also be available at the Hub if needed. We look forward to seeing you there! Lessons take place every Thursday at the CNIB GTA Community Hub. 

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.

Make new friends, or deepen existing friendships, find support from your peers, and develop more theological insight about biblical understanding. Every Thursday (September to June) from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Central Time on Zoom or telephone.

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.

In Let's Tech About It, participants are invited to bring their questions, challenges, and curiosity about everyday devices—smartphones, tablets, computers, and more. It’s a space where we learn together, share tips, and help each other navigate the ever-evolving world of technology. From troubleshooting common issues to discovering new tools and gadgets, this group offers a supportive environment for everyone. Let's Tech About It meets on the fourth Thursday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Calgary.

Everyone loves games. This games group meets to socialize playing 2 to 3 different lively word games for the hour. Sessions are led by our own professional game hosts (aka CNIB staff and volunteers). We embrace a safe fun time to exercise your mind. Every Thursday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom. 

Join us at the CNIB Ottawa Hub for a monthly games group! Play games with peers and chat. We will offer a variety of games including board games, indoor axe throwing and trivia style games. This program is offered to children and youth (ages 5+) in the  Ottawa area. Fourth Thursday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the CNIB Ottawa Hub.

Join us to play games, chat, and make new friends. Please note that this program is for individuals between 10-14 years of age. Every Thursday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

BC Blind Sports offers a variety of inclusive and adaptive fitness programs designed specifically for individuals who are blind, partially sighted, or Deafblind. Their classes are thoughtfully structured to promote physical activity, confidence, and community connection. These classes offer a safe and inclusive space for older adults, individuals recovering from injury, or anyone seeking a low-impact fitness routine. Second and fourth Thursday of every month from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time on Zoom.

Lift your voice and connect with others through the joy of singing. Join our vibrant online choir community on Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

CNIB has partnered with the Remai Modern Art Gallery to bring an opportunity to create and to enjoy a descriptive tour. Please join us for a described tour of art exhibits followed by a tactile art project. All materials and instruction will be provided. If you need an ASL interpreter, please let us know a minimum of five days in advance. Remai Modern once a month, tentatively on the fourth Thursday of every month, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Remai Modern in Saskatoon. 

If you like being read to or listening to audiobooks, then this program is for you! Each week, we will be listening to multiple chapters of a community-selected, family-friendly audiobook and chat about it! Join us Fridays from noon to 1 p.m. Eastern Time.

A monthly technology group for Ottawa-area participants. Friday, January 23 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the CNIB Ottawa Hub (425 Marché Way, Suite 104, Ottawa).

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 .

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.

Join CNIB on January 23 to learn about Meta Glasses and how they function with the latest updates. We will explore how helpful they really are as an accessibility tool, and demo some of the tasks they can assist with. Some brave volunteers can even take the glasses out for a quick spin (inside our CNIB building). To see if Meta Glasses could be right for you, or if you are simply interested in learning more, come down to CNIB and check them out. A light bite and tea and coffee will also be provided. Friday, January 23 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at CNIB Thunder Bay (229 Camelot Street, Thunder Bay).

CNIB SmartLife Coach, Sara Salo, and technology volunteers are here to help participants get familiarized with SmartLife Assistive Technology, to assist with making smartphones and tablets more accessible and to recommend and offer demos on accessibility apps. Online training is also available upon request. Appointments are available Tuesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at CNIB Thunder Bay.

Designed for knitters/advanced knitters to work on projects, learn from peers, and enjoy knitting fellowship. Every Friday from 12 to 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.