Ontario East
Upcoming Events
Let's Get Gardening
If you have a green thumb (or you'd like to have one), then this gardening discussion group is for you! We swap success stories, talk about our favorite plants, and generally 'dish the dirt' on all things horticultural. For all levels of garden enthusiasts. Whether you patio or container garden, or have lots of gardening space, the time in this group will just buzz by. Every Monday from 1 to 2 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.
Western Social Meet Up
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.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Lake Joe Choir
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.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Coffee Break
Join us for conversation, laughter, and a chance to reminisce about your favourite CNIB Lake Joe memories. Pour yourself a coffee, tea, or beverage of choice, login and connect with your friends from Lake Joe. Coffee Break meets every Tuesday from 9 to 10 a.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Reading Room
Sit back and relax in our virtual reading room and let the CNIB Lake Joe team share articles and stories of interest. Reading Room meets on the first Friday of every month from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering.
Saskatchewan and Manitoba Indigenous Peer Support Group
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.
Virtual Coffee Group
Join us every Friday for a virtual meet up in the prairies with a friendly bunch of people looking to connect with others across the country! Make new connections and find friendships and enjoyable conversation. The focus is on a positive, inclusive, and safe support network of people who have experienced sight loss. Everyone is welcome. Virtual Coffee Group meets every Friday from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Central Time on Zoom.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Afternoon Games
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.
Eastern Canada Social Meet Up
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.
Tech Drop-In
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.
I Can…Club Newsletter
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.
Online Yoga Classes
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.
Music for Kids – Tuesday Session
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.
Chair Yoga
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.
Tech Talk Tuesday
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.
Gentle Yoga
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.
Wellness Wednesdays
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.
Music and Friends
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.
Coffee Time
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.
Thursday Games
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.
Yarnivores
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.
Tween Zoom Hangout
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.
Old Time Radio – A blast from the past!
Join host Kelly MacDonald as he shares a blast from the past! Listen to all the old radio shows that made the genre so popular. Everything from mystery, comedy, westerns and holiday specific shows. Sit back and enjoy! First and third Sunday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.
Accessible Yoga
his class is all about making yoga accessible to everyone, no matter your experience or physical ability. You’ll move at your own pace, with support for breathwork and mindfulness throughout. Every Monday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.
Story Corner
Sit back and enjoy several stories from the well-known Chicken Soup books! A volunteer will be reading a selection of interesting and enjoyable short stories. First Monday of every month from 7 to 8 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.
Tech Connect
Tech Connect is an interactive, engaging and educational program where participants discuss different technologies/apps that can help make life a bit easier! Participants will learn about technologies other participants use and you are then able to ask questions to get help with your own technology/apps. Second Tuesday of every month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.
The Flip Side
The Flip Side is a virtual group where participants experiencing vision loss can meet other members of the community and hear directly from them about their accomplishments and the barriers they have overcome in order to make those accomplishments. The Flip Side meets on the second Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.
Curiosity Club
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.
Ottawa Coffee & Chat
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.
Pride Connection
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.
Charles Bonnet Syndrome Group
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.
CNIB Photography Club
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.
Kingston Coffee and Chat
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).
Spot the Win CNIB Bingo
Join the fun with Spot the Win: CNIB Bingo! Get ready to test your luck and strategy in this unique twist on a classic game! Third Thursday of the month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Zoom.
Belleville Book Club
Book Club for participants in the Belleville and surrounding area for those who love to read and would like to connect with others to discuss books. The Belleville Book Club meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month from 1 to 2 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.
Trivia
A virtual monthly program where participants are invited to come together once a month for a trivia night! there will be a variety of different trivia games played and it is all for fun, relaxation and entertainment! Trivia runs on Zoom on the fourth Tuesday of every month from 7 to 8 p.m. Newfoundland Time.
Ottawa Music Circle
Calling all music enthusiasts – join us at for our monthly music circle! You'll be encouraged to sing, play instruments, participate in breathing exercises and move your body or tap your feet to the music. Percussion instruments will be made available and we encourage you to bring your instrument of choice, should you have one. Bring your song suggestions, make some new friends and learn something new, every month! Fourth Wednesday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the CNIB Ottawa Community Hub.
Music Social
The music social is a themed radio-style night of music appreciation, where participants give song requests to the hosts and we listen to music, chat, and answer trivia questions together! Join us for a night of music, fun, and games! Music Social meets on the fourth Wednesday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.
Name That Tune
Do you enjoy music? Well, Name that Tune is the game for you! Name that tune is a fun game where people can join in to listen and try to name as many songs as they can. Last Thursday of every month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.
Beyond Sight Series
The Beyond Sight Series feature monthly virtual presentations from various services, businesses and organizations in our community. Each month, we will offer a different topic and speaker will join us to discuss a variety of topics. Examples include: RDSP’s, wills, budgeting, nutrition and lots more. Fourth Monday of every month from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Newfoundland Time on Zoom.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Audiobook Alley
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.
Ottawa Hub Walkers
Join us for a monthly walking program that aims to get you out, moving and making friends. The walk will start and finish at the CNIB Ottawa Hub in Lansdowne Park. Walks may vary, but will take in the Rideau Canal and will make a stop at a coffee shop along the way. Second Wednesday of every month from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the CNIB Ottawa Community Hub (425 Marché Way Suite 104, Ottawa.)
All Things Music
Come chat with Lawrence and his co-hosts as they guide discussions on “All Things Music” CNIB’s new virtual music group for blind and low vision musicians and music lovers! This group is a space to connect, share, and discuss everything music-related, from instruments and songs to tips, resources, and performances. Second Saturday of every month from 1 to 2 p.m. Atlantic Time on Zoom.
Webinar Series: Talk, Share & Learn
Delve deeper into thought-provoking topics with guidance from professional guest speakers. While the casual coffee chats have been a wonderful way to connect, this new format will allow us to explore ideas in greater depth and bring fresh insights from experts in the field. Stay tuned as we embark on this new journey – same spirit of conversation! Last Tuesday from 10 to 12 p.m. Pacific Time on Zoom.
Intro to Assistive Technology Info Session
Are you new to assistive technology? Want to get more out of your smart device or computer? This Zoom workshop is a 2 for 1! The first hour is devoted to structured learning – focusing on basics and beginner topics. Later on, we'll have a volunteer-led, tech-focused Q&A discussion group dealing with a wide range of questions. Come prepared to swap tips and tricks, share about your favorite apps, help one another and strengthen your own skills in the process. Join us while we figure it out – together! Second Tuesday of every month from 12 to 1:30 p.m. Pacific Time on Zoom.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: The Lounge (ages 20+)
Friday nights are fun...and easy! We're hosting a special monthly get-together for adults ages 20+ who simply want to hangout and chat. Zoom information will be provided after registering.
CNIB Lake Joe: Counsellor-in-Training (ages 15-18) - Sold Out
Mix work and play while building your resume and gaining essential, hands-on job experience in this extended 2-week program!
Brockville VIP Group
The Brockville VIP Group is a social support group for people living with vision loss in the Brockville area. Join us for coffee or tea and a light snack to socialize and connect with others who are living with vision loss. First Tuesday of every month (September to June) from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Wall Street United Church
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Campfire - a family-friendly program
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.
Read Aloud to Me: Stories for Children
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.
Zoom Room for Kids
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.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Talent Show
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.
Bible Study Group
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.
Music for Kids – Monday Session
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 Monday from 3:45 to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time.
Tuesday Zoom Coffee and Chat
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.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Drama Club
Get in on the act with CNIB Lake Joe's virtual Drama Club! This program allows you to explore the arts and let your creative side shine through drama and improv activities. Join us on alternating Wednesdays from 7 to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.
Heroes Circle Martial Arts
Practice Power, Peace and Purpose. Sensei's will guide us through the one hour session and no prior experience is necessary. This program is open to children and youth ages 6-18. Please dress comfortably and bring a water bottle. Second Thursday of every month from 6 to 7 p.m. at the CNIB Ottawa Community Hub.
Song Bingo Game Night
Come join us on alternating Fridays for our Song Bingo Game Night! All you need to participate is access to phone or Zoom and a bingo card at home or online! Feel free to play as a family or house! There will be prizes for the first 3 bingo winners of each game and those who correctly name the most tunes! This program is open to participants of all ages. Song Bingo Game Night meets on Zoom on alternating Friday's from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Pacific Time.
Let's Talk Cooking – Fall Session
Love cooking or would love to know more about cooking? Join this group to share ideas, tips, tricks and the joy of cooking and baking! Every Monday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: After School Special (for children & youth)
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.
Ottawa Teen Baking Group
Join us for some kitchen fun at the CNIB Ottawa Hub! We will create a new recipe each month and enjoy eating our baking and socializing with peers. Open to participants between the ages of 12-18 in the Ontario East region. Third Thursday of every month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the CNIB Ottawa Hub.
Seated Dance Fitness 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.
Ottawa Youth Games Club
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.
The POV Project
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.
Tech Time with Jim
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 1 to 2:30 p.m. Eastern at the CNIB Ottawa Hub.
I Can… Podcasters Club; Voices of the Next Generation
Whether you are looking to become the next podcast sensation or simply learn a new way to share your story with others; the “I Can…Podcasters Club," will bring together the voices of youth living with vision loss to gain knowledge, skills and practice podcasting basics. First Thursday of every month from 7 to 8 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Curiosity Corner: Staying Stafe
We'll be chatting with a police officer about "stranger danger," fraud, and a typical day-in-the-life of a police officer.
CNIB Youth Fantasy Book Club (Ages 10-16)
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.
Ottawa Knitting Group
Come out for some Knitting fun at the Ottawa Hub. Join us if you are an avid knitter, working on a project, or new to the craft. Share your knowledge with others in the group if you have experience, or learn a new skill from others. There will be some donated supplies available, or feel free to bring in a project or materials you may have. Second Wednesday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Eastern Time at the CNIB Ottawa Hub (425 Marché Way Suite 104, Ottawa).
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: All About Birds
In this new program, we will be covering a different topic relating to CNIB Lake Joe! Whether you're new to Lake Joe or a seasoned camper, join us for videos, special guests, and updates the third Monday of each month, 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. Eastern.
Canadian Blind Hockey: Ottawa 67’s Youth Blind Hockey Team
Canadian Blind Hockey is thrilled to announce the return of the Ottawa 67’s Youth Blind Hockey Team for another incredible season in the nation’s capital! Each year this program keeps getting bigger and better, with more enthusiastic players and amazing volunteers joining the fun. Every Saturday (October 25, 2025 to March 14, 2026) at the McNabb Community Centre (180 Percy Street, Ottawa).
Canadian Blind Hockey: Ottawa Adult Blind Hockey Team
The Ottawa Adult Blind Hockey Team is hitting the ice again! Open to adults who are blind or partially sighted in Ottawa and the surrounding region, this program is the perfect chance to learn, play, and connect through Canada’s favourite sport. Every Saturday (October 25, 2025 to March 14, 2026) at the McNabb Community Centre (180 Percy Street, Ottawa).
Ontario Regional Braille Challenge 2026
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.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Curiosity Corner: Property Prep
Join Justin, CNIB Lake Joe property assistant, to learn about what goes into keeping the property at Lake Joe in tiptop shape, and what keeps him busy in the off-season. Join us Monday, November 3 from 4 to 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: All Things Lake Joe
In this new program, we will be covering a different topic relating to CNIB Lake Joe! Whether you're new to Lake Joe or a seasoned camper, join us for videos, special guests, and updates the third Monday of each month, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Eastern.
iOS Accessibility Series (Virtual)
Unlock the power of iPhone for accessibility! From web browsing and reading print to navigation, audiobooks, and more, iPhones offer powerful tools for people who are blind or have low vision. With built-in accessibility features and countless apps, these devices can be tailored to your needs. In this hands-on series, you’ll learn how to: navigate your device with confidence, use VoiceOver and Siri, customize low vision settings, and explore new features in iOS 26. Every Tuesday from November 18 to December 9 from 1 to 3 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Let's Make a Mural - Wonderful Winter
In this session, we will be making a digital mural together to get us in the spirit for the winter holidays. No skills required! Join us Thursday, November27 from 12pm to 1pm Eastern Time.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Curiosity Corner: CNIB's Children's Charter
Every child deserves the support they need to thrive in school and life. Ben Akuoko, Program Lead, Advocacy & Accessible Community Engagement will talk about CNIB's Children's Charter and describe ways we all can help move the needle for children with sight loss. Join us Monday, December 1 from 4 to 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Holiday Message Workshop
Join us Tuesday, December 4th at noon (Eastern) to record warm holiday messages that will be sent to our wonderful community of volunteers, donors and staff!
Tech it Out: Holiday Fun with Tech
Tech It Out is our monthly afternoon session where CNIB Tech Lead Steve MacInnes and Tech Mate volunteer Dave spotlight a different type of technology each month. This November, they’ll look at a few of the newest apps for IOS and Android designed to help those living with vision loss. Everyone’s welcome, no experience needed! This December, they’ll take a festive approach to tech for the holidays. From last minute gift ideas to fun apps and websites to enhance your holiday experience. Everyone’s welcome, no experience needed! Everyone’s welcome, no experience needed! Tuesday, December 9 from 2 to 3 p.m. Atlantic Time on Zoom.
Birdability: Blind Birder Community Conversations – December 9
Birdability is hosting a series of opportunities for learning and community-building each month. These sessions are open, informal, and designed to support both new and experienced participants. You’ll learn birding-by-ear skills, explore technology for recording and identifying sounds, and connect with a growing community of blind and low-vision birders.
Wireless Wednesday
Are you new to assistive technology? Want to get more out of your smart device or computer? This Zoom workshop is a 2 for 1! The first hour is devoted to structured learning – focusing on basics and beginner topics. Later on, we'll have a volunteer-led, tech-focused Q&A discussion group dealing with a wide range of questions. Come prepared to swap tips and tricks, share about your favorite apps, help one another and strengthen your own skills in the process. Join us while we figure it out – together! Second and fourth Wednesday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. Pacific Time on Zoom.
Cooking with Linda
Come and join Linda monthly to prepare different dishes you can eat yourself or share with family and friends. For a truly interactive experience, Linda welcomes you to cook and bake along with her in the comfort of your own kitchen! With an ILS often in attendance, bring along your questions as you might just learn a new trick to help you out. Thursday, December 11 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.
Less Trivial: A Peanut’s Christmas by Charles Schultz
Skip the random facts—Less Trivial is all about teamwork and clever thinking. Tackle word puzzles, riddles, number games, Family Feud–style matchups, and even guess songs or soundscapes. Hosted monthly by Jeff deViller, Executive Director of CNIB Maritimes, it’s an evening where everyone can join in, no matter how much you know. This year, each month will feature a children's book with every couple of pages inspiring the theme for the next round. This month’s book is A Peanut’s Christmas by Charles Schultz. Thursday, December 11 from 6 to 8 p.m. Atlantic Time on Zoom.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Lake Joe Cooking Show
Join Taylor G as she makes a holiday treat and describes every step along the way! Join us Monday, December 15 from 11am to 12 noon Eastern Time.
Wireless Wednesday
Are you new to assistive technology? Want to get more out of your smart device or computer? This Zoom workshop is a 2 for 1! The first hour is devoted to structured learning – focusing on basics and beginner topics. Later on, we'll have a volunteer-led, tech-focused Q&A discussion group dealing with a wide range of questions. Come prepared to swap tips and tricks, share about your favorite apps, help one another and strengthen your own skills in the process. Join us while we figure it out – together! Second and fourth Wednesday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. Pacific Time on Zoom.
Braille Art Competition
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!
2026 Braille Creative Writing Contest
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.
Braille Quest
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.
CNIBLakeJoe@Home: Curiosity Corner
Keep curious and engaged with lifelong learning. In this monthly session we will be inviting special guests and experts to inform and inspire us on a variety of interesting topics! Join us the first Monday of the month from 4 to 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Zoom information will be provided after registering.
Ottawa Progressive Yoga Series (8 Weeks)
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.
Let's Talk Cooking – Winter Session
Love cooking or would love to know more about cooking? Join this group to share ideas, tips, tricks and the joy of cooking and baking! Every Monday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.
Rideau Hall Tour and Skate (Ottawa)
Join us at Rideau Hall for a tour and a skate on the rink – a beautiful space for the local community to enjoy the magic of winter and sport! Sunday, January 18 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Rideau Hall Rink, via Princess Gate (101 Princess Ave., Ottawa).
Birdability: Blind Birder Community Conversations – January 20
Birdability is hosting a series of opportunities for learning and community-building each month. These sessions are open, informal, and designed to support both new and experienced participants. You’ll learn birding-by-ear skills, explore technology for recording and identifying sounds, and connect with a growing community of blind and low-vision birders.
Cooking with Linda
Come and join Linda monthly to prepare different dishes you can eat yourself or share with family and friends. For a truly interactive experience, Linda welcomes you to cook and bake along with her in the comfort of your own kitchen! With an ILS often in attendance, bring along your questions as you might just learn a new trick to help you out. Fourth Tuesday of every month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.
Birdability: Blind Birder Community Conversations – February 3
Birdability is hosting a series of opportunities for learning and community-building each month. These sessions are open, informal, and designed to support both new and experienced participants. You’ll learn birding-by-ear skills, explore technology for recording and identifying sounds, and connect with a growing community of blind and low-vision birders.
Birdability: Blind Birder Community Conversations – March 10
Birdability is hosting a series of opportunities for learning and community-building each month. These sessions are open, informal, and designed to support both new and experienced participants. You’ll learn birding-by-ear skills, explore technology for recording and identifying sounds, and connect with a growing community of blind and low-vision birders.
Let's Talk Cooking – Spring Session
Love cooking or would love to know more about cooking? Join this group to share ideas, tips, tricks and the joy of cooking and baking! Every Monday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Zoom.
Birdability: Blind Birder Community Conversations – April 14
Birdability is hosting a series of opportunities for learning and community-building each month. These sessions are open, informal, and designed to support both new and experienced participants. You’ll learn birding-by-ear skills, explore technology for recording and identifying sounds, and connect with a growing community of blind and low-vision birders.
Birdability: Blind Birder Bird-a-Thon 2026
A Bird-a-Thon is a birding event during which birders try to see or hear as many bird species as possible during a set period of time, in this case, a 24-hour period within two days in May. The goal of the 2nd Annual Global Blind Birder Bird-a-Thon is to encourage blind and partially sighted birders of any age, experience, or location to head outdoors, tune in, and celebrate the sounds and songs that make birding such a powerful practice of connection.
Writing with Feeling: Braille Writers' Retreat
CNIB is now accepting applications for our annual Writing with Feeling Retreat! Whether you're a new braille user with a passion for creative writing or crafting a poem, story, or essay for the CNIB Braille Creative Writing Contest, join CNIB’s Writer’s Retreat for kids and teens with sight loss! Connect with young writers from across Canada, get tips from professional authors, and take part in fun, braille-themed and accessible activities. August 31-September 5, 2026 at CNIB Lake Joe in Muskoka, Ontario.