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.

The Walking Group provides a chance for individuals who are blind or partially sighted to exercise and practice their mobility and travel skills. Every Monday (Tuesday when there is a long weekend) from 10 to 11 a.m.

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.

Are you craving that social interaction you normally get from going for coffee with friends? We are here to keep the virtual conversation going post pandemic! Since we've gotten to know each other, lets stay connected and share some good news stories, discuss practical tips and successes with others living with vision loss. Every Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m. Eastern Time 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.

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.

If you have a curious mind, learning is a journey that never ends! From history and geography to science, travel, and social trends, the possibilities for discovery are limitless. Join us to expand your horizons in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Our host and guest speakers will present a variety of engaging topics and encourage lively conversations. Third Tuesday of every month from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Eastern 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 – location TBC. 

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? Learn how technology can enhance your life! Come join us for a Tech Cafe Primer at CNIB Victoria. Each session includes a mix of structured learning, small group discussions, and one-on-one support. We'll share tips, tricks, and plenty of laughs along the way. Third Tuesday of every month from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Pacific Time 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. 

With our new Get Moving program, you can participate in a variety of activities like modified Corn Hole, Bingo Night, a fun game of cards, and more! Join us once a month for a fun group activity and Get Moving! Third Tuesday of every month from 7 to 8 p.m. at CNIB St. Johns.

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. 

Perfect for individuals with mobility issues or injuries, this class uses a sturdy chair to guide you through gentle movements, breath work, sitting meditation, and relaxation techniques. What you need: Comfortable clothing and a sturdy chair. Every Tuesday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

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.

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 5 to 7 p.m. at the Cochrane Public Library

The Regina Youth Adventure Club is a monthly program for youth who are blind or have low vision. It provides a supportive social setting where participants develop leadership and advocacy skills, build confidence and self-esteem, and gain knowledge about post-secondary education and work transitions. The program fosters independence and self-advocacy while helping youth discover their capabilities. Through leadership roles, community projects, and guest speakers, participants learn to support themselves and others while building meaningful connections. Third Tuesday of every month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the CNIB Regina office. 

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.

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.

Children of all ages across the country are welcome to participate in our live reading series Read Aloud to Me. Join us every Wednesday as experienced volunteers give life to picture books, chapter books and short stories. While stories chosen are geared to participants between the ages of 7 to 12, anyone who would enjoy listening is welcome. Every Wednesday from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

The Zoom Room for Kids is turning into a Fairy Tale Factory! Join Teaching Artist and Oboist, Joey Salvalaggio on an exploration of the world tradition of fairy tales and nursery rhymes and how they are represented in music. From the familiar to the obscure, from Jack in the Beanstalk to Baba Yaga, these sessions take you on a journey around the world, exploring different cultures and music. But a visit from Mr. Joey wouldn't be complete without creating our own brand new fairy tale classic that will endure for years to come. Every Wednesday from 7 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom. 

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

Join us for coffee and great conversation. We will have guest speakers, and an opportunity to talk with others who are going through similar challenges in a confidential and non-judgmental setting. Third Thursday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Artillery Park Aquatic Centre (382 Bagot Street, Kingston).

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.

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.

Are you interested in personal development? Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow and connect with others with CNIB Winnipeg's monthly interactive life coaching series. In this group, we will explore topics such as love, dating, relationships, confidence, and much more. Third Thursday of every month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Winnipeg. 

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.

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. First and third Thursday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Edmonton. 

A monthly community-based peer support group to discuss issues relating to sight loss and to socialize with others. Guest speakers are occasionally invited to present on different topics. tThird 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 for After School Special, a vibrant and welcoming program designed specifically for children and youth living with sight loss. Offered the third Thursday of the month from 4 to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, it will give everyone the chance to keep connections with camp friends - or friends they haven't met yet - strong.

Join us for these ongoing events designed to enhance your assistive tech skills and independence! The Lower Mainland SmartLife Tech Cafe meets on the third Thursday of every month from 1 to 4 p.m. (except April, July, October & January​​​​​​​) at CNIB New Westminster (610 6th St Unit 201B, New Westminster).