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.

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.

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. 

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!

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!

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

Join us for Tech Primer Café, a welcoming monthly gathering designed to support individuals with vision loss in learning and exploring assistive technology. These sessions focus on building confidence, independence, and practical tech skills. First Tuesday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Vernon Library ORL Branch (2800 30th Ave., Vernon) Community Room, Second Floor. 

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.

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. 

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.

The Family Zoom Room is a fun interactive virtual program where participants and their families come together to learn and connect. The first half of the session features games and hands-on activities that support the Expanded Core Curriculum and build real-life skills in a fun, engaging way. The session wraps up with a professional story time that encourages a love of reading and shared family learning. Every Tuesday from 6:15 to 7:15. Eastern Time on Zoom. 

Youth ages 10 to 16 who enjoy reading from the wealth of fantasy authors, past and present who have entertained us with tales of wizards, warriors, magic, and mystery are encouraged to join this monthly group. We will discuss some familiar books and authors and hopefully learn about many new ones. First Tuesday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.

Gather 'round for campfire, a cozy and inclusive event for families to come together and enjoy the magic of camp traditions...no tents required! This group meets Tuesdays, 7 to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.

Adjustment to Sight Loss (A2SL) is a 7-week virtual series where participants connect with others who are either new to sight loss or who have been living with it for some time and are now coming to terms with it. Hosted by Laura Bain and Natalie Fougere, these sessions will cover topics including mental health and sight loss, communication, advocacy, and independent living skills.  The Adjustment to Sight Loss  program is designed to give participants “tools for their toolbelt” as they continue their personal journey.

Join CNIB for a monthly tech drop-in to learn new skills and get support using your mobile devices and tips and tricks for using AI. This in-person program is open to anyone in the Ottawa area looking for guidance with mobile technology and how AI such as ChatGPT and Meta glasses can be of assistance. Coffee and tea will be available. First Wednesday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Eastern at the CNIB Ottawa Hub. 

The CNIB Mobile Hub visits Humboldt, Saskatchewan on Wednesday, March 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Humboldt Community Gathering Place (701 6th Ave., Humboldt).

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.

Book some time to play today! Join us on Wednesdays from 1 to 2 p.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering. 

Join artist Betty Carpick to put a spin on Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSI) through art. We'll be making a collaborative TWSI soft sculpture with wool felt and a combination of neon beads and neon wool roving. No art skills necessary! Every Wednesday for six weeks (February 26 to April 1)  from 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Thunder Bay.

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.

Join the CNIB Calgary SmartLife Centre for a two-part AI series. In part one of our series, learn how artificial intelligence is shaping accessibility and every day life. Wednesday, March 4 from 1 to 3 p.m. at CNIB Calgary (10 11A St. NE, Calgary).

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.

Join us for "Wellness Wednesdays" where we'll discuss a variety of topics focused on wellness. Presentations will be presented by the Canadian Mental Health Association of NB. Sessions are delivered virtually over Zoom on the first Wednesday of every month from 7 to 8 p.m. Atlantic Time. 

Come together to discuss different types of music you have to listen to. Depending on if you are getting started for the day or if you are looking to boost your spirit, talk about what song helps you during these times and learn about songs that help your peers! First Wednesday of every month from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.

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 community-based support group offers ongoing emotional adjustment to vision loss support. The group is open to participants in Kelowna ages 30-55. This group occasionally invites guest speakers to talk about subjects relating to vision loss. This peer support group meets at CNIB Kelowna on the first Wednesday of every month from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Pacific Time. 

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. Wednesday, March 4 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Mountain 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

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. 

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.

This program is designed for individuals at Riverside Terrace who are blind or partially sighted to connect with others who are experiencing similar circumstances and to participate in social gatherings. The Riverside Terrace Peer Support Group meets on the first Thursday of every month  from 10 to 11 a.m. at Riverside Terrace.

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.

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. Every Thursday from 2 to 3 p.m. virtually on Zoom. Zoom information will be shared after registering. 

Join us to attend a special Touch Tour Airspace: Art of the Landfill by Jordan Danger, her newest exhibition. This art exhibition is made up of 15 pieces, with half of those being sculptures, and half of those being highly textural hanging canvasses. Thursday, March 5 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at Ben Franklin Place (101 Centrepointe Drive, Nepean).

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. 

Welcome to our monthly CNIB Calgary Social Tea – join us for coffee, snacks, and great conversation! First 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. 

A monthly community-based support group for Vancouver area residents (ages 30-55) that offers ongoing emotional adjustment to vision loss support. Guest speakers are occasionally invited to present on different topics. First Thursday of every month from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Pacific Time on Zoom

A community-based support group for Victoria area residents that offers ongoing emotional adjustment to vision loss support. First Thursday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. at the CNIB Victoria Hub.

Ottawa area youth are invited to participate in a 3- part workshop series aimed to empower them with pre-employment skills, volunteer readiness and self-advocacy. We have Come to Work program lead Bryanna and Advocacy program lead Kate, joining us to provide their expertise to youth in the Ottawa area. Supper will be provided at each session. Thursday, February 5, March 5 and April 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the CNIB Ottawa Hub (425 Marché Way Suite 104, Ottawa). 

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.