Migrant Worker Edition: Interacting With Police: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities; Issue 61

The police force plays a vital role in Canadian society. Police forces in BC must perform their duties and functions Learn More

Onboarding LINC Learners Remotely

This e-learning provides information and tips for LINC instructors and frontline workers offering services remotely. You’ll learn about Internet communications, Learn More

AMSSA iCARE Webinar

In this March 30, 2021 iCARE webinar, Justin Cavacciuti and Jeslyn Thibedeau from the IRCC NHQ iCARE team address everything Learn More

AMSSA Lecture: Settlement Sector & Technology

The Settlement Sector and Technology Task Group (Task Group), reporting to IRCC’s National Settlement and Integration Council (NSIC), was formed Learn More

AMSSA Lecture: Telling a Story Through Data Visualization

Settlement and integration service providers collect and use data on a daily basis. While the data we collect is essential, Learn More

AMSSA Lecture: Francophone Immigration and Integration

In the AMSSA Lecture: Francophone Immigration & Integration, Dr. Suzanne Huot discusses findings from her research: Cultural encounters: Examining the Learn More

Volunteers & Supporting Specialized Learner Needs in ELL Programming

This podcast touches on two important themes. ELL service providers and volunteers support literacy learners, newcomers with multiple barriers, and Learn More

AMSSATalk: Climate Change, Displacement & Environmental Racism

This AMSSATalk from February 11, 2021 is for any settlement and integration staff wanting to learn more about the connections Learn More

Migrant Worker Edition: Intercultural Communication: Creating Safer Spaces for Migrant Workers; Issue 60

There are various barriers to an effective intercultural communication, including lack of knowledge about the different communication styles in different Learn More

Open Work Permit for Vulnerable Workers

The Migrant Worker Hub’s second e-learning module “Open Work Permit for Vulnerable Workers” is a tool for settlement organizations, migrant Learn More

A Newcomer Inclusive Approach to the COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout in BC

AMSSA has offered support to Immunize BC and to the 5 Regional Health Authorities to foster a newcomer inclusive approach Learn More

AMSSA Lecture: Engaging Ways to Facilitate Online

Being able to facilitate virtual meetings and events is a requirement of the new normal and it is essential to Learn More

Introduction to Food Insecurity

This e-learning module provides a comprehensive introduction to Food Insecurity.  The course explains “what is food insecurity”, including key definitions, Learn More

Climate Change, Displacement, and Environmental Racism; Issue 59

This issue of Migration Matters explores the intersections between climate change, displacement, and looks towards a vision of climate and Learn More

AMSSA Lecture: Not for Profit Governance: The Journey to Meaningful Diversity and Inclusion

AMSSA Lecture 4, Not for Profit Governance: The Journey to Meaningful Diversity and Inclusion will explore why diversity and inclusion Learn More

Self-care and a Healthy Workplace in the Settlement and Integration Sector

AMSSA has just released the newest E-learning Module “Self-care and a Healthy Workplace in the Settlement and Integration Sector”! This Learn More

Overview of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program

The Migrant Worker Hub’s first e-learning module “Overview of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program” is a tool for settlement organizations, Learn More

Burnout, Vicarious Trauma, and Compassion Fatigue; Issue 58

This issue of Migration Matters looks at the impacts that trauma in the workplace can have on service providers. This Learn More

Employment Related Supports in ELL Programming

This podcast features speakers from 2 organizations that offer specialized employment-related supports in language programming. They explain how their programs, Learn More

Developing Racial Literacy a Virtual Lecture Series with Dr. Ismaël Traoré

As more individuals awaken to the reality of racism, public education becomes a crucial venue for dispensing evidence-based knowledge and Learn More

Food Insecurity and the Right to Food in BC

Food insecurity is a serious global issue that impacts over 4.4 million Canadians and over 500,000 British Columbians. Food insecurity Learn More

AMSSA Lecture: Working with Newcomers on Unceded Territory Part 1 & 2

Norm Leech, Executive Director of the Vancouver Aboriginal Community Policing Centre and a well-known speaker, facilitator, and storyteller, engaged IRCC Learn More

The Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants Program

Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants is a practical and unique program customized to participant needs. Newcomers can get help to Learn More

Everyday Adaptations for Innovative ELL Programming

For newcomers, English language skills are an important factor in successful settlement and integration. In the podcast, four language training Learn More

AMSSA Lecture: Digital Access and Digital Literacy

COVID19 has revealed deep inequalities in access to technologies among Canadians. 34% of Canadians earning under $30,000 a year do Learn More

WorkSafe BC Guidelines for Creating a Safe Work Environment – Settlement and Integration Sector

These guidelines developed by AMSSA and WorkSafe BC are intended for organizations providing in-person settlement and integration services to all Learn More

What’s Working With Remote Language Delivery In BC

This 2020 webinar brought together BC LINC instructors, LINC teams and other settlement staff that are using technology to connect Learn More

Welcoming New Arrivals

This 2020 AMSSA Video on Welcoming New Arrivals was created to support SPOs in understanding the process that newcomers experience Learn More

Immigration for BC’s Future: A Call for Action to Strengthen Newcomer Integration

The 2018 Immigration for BC’s Future: A Call for Action to Strengthen Newcomer Integration is a report culminating from extensive Learn More

WorkBC Self-Serve Supports

WorkBC offers a wide range of services that help individuals find and maintain work and improve employment readiness. All job Learn More

Employment-Related Supports and Inter-Agency Referrals for Immigrant Clients (Part 2)

This training offers guidance on service delivery approach and best practices. Topics include: Qualities of successful inter-agency referrals; and Effective Learn More

Employment Related Supports and Inter Agency Referrals for Immigrant Clients: Part 2

This 2020 webinar is the second of a companion pair of e-learning modules that helped front-line workers make effective employment-related Learn More

Migrant Worker Edition: Employment Standards for Migrant Workers; Issue 50

All foreign workers are covered by the Employment Standards Act and Regulation. These provisions include overtime pay, statutory holidays and Learn More

Returning the Youth Back to Canada’s Future: A Webinar on Employment Barriers for Youth and How to Tackle Them

Finding a job and having access to meaningful work is one of the tangible areas of newcomer integration. The unemployment-rate Learn More

Newcomer Youth and Labour Market Access; Issue 55

Almost half of immigrants to Canada are under 25 years of age.1 Newcomer youth have a unique experience of migration, Learn More

Employment-Related Supports and Inter-Agency Referrals for Immigrant Clients (Part 1)

This training offers guidance on service delivery approach and best practices. Topics include: Cultural impact on attitudes towards employment and Learn More

Employment Related Supports and Inter Agency Referrals for Immigrant Clients: Part 1

This 2020 webinar introduced the first of a companion pair of e-learning modules that help front-line workers make effective employment-related Learn More

AMSSATalk: Citizenship Beyond the Passport

This AMSSATalk, held on January 15, 2020, provided director, management and frontline staff with thought-provoking insights on the role of Learn More

Volunteer & Tutor Management

AMSSA Resources Resource Page: Mentoring and Volunteer Resources, AMSSA This section of the AMSSA website lists BC and Canadian mentoring and Learn More

Temporary Foreign Workers

The Front-line Worker Fact Sheets are practical, clear, simple and easy to read fact sheets that contain helpful information and Learn More

LINC Guidelines

Guide: A Principles-based Approach to Supporting LINC Learners, AMSSA Through a holistic lens, this professional development tool supports LINC programs Learn More

PBLA – Tools & Checklists

Please Note: You need to be logged into your Tutela account to access Tutela resources. If you are not logged in, the links below will Learn More

Computer Literacy – Theory & Best Practices

Please Note: You need to be logged into your Tutela account to access Tutela resources. If you are not logged in, the links below will Learn More

Literacy – Lesson Plans & Classroom Activities

Please Note: You need to be logged into your Tutela account to access Tutela resources. If you are not logged in, the links below will Learn More

Improving Service Delivery in B.C; Issue 57

Service Delivery Improvements (SDI) funding is a dedicated stream within the Settlement Program of almost $150 million over 5 years. Learn More

Employment & Essential Skills – Theory & Best Practices

Please Note: You need to be logged into your Tutela account to access Tutela resources. If you are not logged in, the links below will Learn More

ESL Video Resources

911 Video: Teacher’s Guide for 911 Video PDF Walk in Clinic Video: Teacher’s Guide for Walk-in Clinic Video PDF Active Learn More

A Principles-based Approach to Supporting LINC Learners Training

This course is a companion to AMSSA’s professional development Guide: A Principles-based Approach to Supporting LINC Learners. This course will Learn More

PBLA – Theory & Best Practices

Please Note: You need to be logged into your Tutela account to access Tutela resources. If you are not logged in, the links below will Learn More

Computer Literacy – Lesson Plans & Classroom Activities

Classroom Resources Instructional Resource: Computer Skills, Decoda These instructional resources are a series of three-hour lesson plans and student workbooks to Learn More

International Students: Settlement, Housing and Employment

The Front-line Worker Fact Sheets are practical, clear, simple and easy to read fact sheets that contain helpful information and Learn More

Employment & Essential Skills – Lesson Plans & Classroom Activities

Please Note: You need to be logged into your Tutela account to access Tutela resources. If you are not logged in, the links below will Learn More

Gender-Based Violence & Harassment: Creating Safer Workplaces and Communities

An estimated 1 in 3 women worldwide experience violence, usually from a partner or family member. These numbers may vary Learn More

Gender-Based Violence & Harassment: Creating Safer Workplaces and Communities; Issue 53

Gender-based violence (GBV) is violence that is committed against someone based on their gender identity or gender expression. At its Learn More

Front-line Workers’ Training on WorkBC Employment Services

This 2019 workshop has been developed for Settlement Practitioners who provide front-line services to newcomers to learn about WorkBC Employment Learn More

Migrant Worker Edition: Information on Filing Taxes for Migrant Workers; Issue 54

Every individual legally working in Canada including Migrant Workers is required to pay both provincial and federal taxes. An individual’s Learn More

AMSSA Video Annual Report 2018 – 2019

We are happy to share our first ever Video Annual Report for the 2018 – 2019 fiscal year.Learn More

WorkBC Employment Services: Introducing an E-Learning Module for Front line Settlement Worker

This webinar, held on August 28, 2019, served as an introduction to the BCSIS E-Learning module about WorkBC employment services.Learn More

Migrant Worker Edition: Canada Pension Plan for Migrant Workers; Issue 52

The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) can provide migrant workers with an income when individuals reach an old age or can Learn More

Newcomer Men: Unique Challenges and Considerations; Issue 51

In 2017, men made up more than half of total refugees accepted into Canada, and the majority of economic class Learn More

Exploring Online Service Delivery: Principles and Practices

This webinar recorded on June 25, 2019, helps LINC teams understand the benefits and multiple approaches to online learning, as Learn More

LINC and Online Learning; Issue 46

As digital technology and computer use become widespread and necessary for success in today’s workforce, online and blended learning methods Learn More

Front-line Workers’ Training on Diversity and Inclusion

BC Settlement & Integration Services (BCSIS) service providers must ensure that program staff is trained to provide services and support Learn More

Symposium: “Indigenous Newcomer Relationships” An Organizational Dialogue on Unsettling Practices

A 2019 dialogue and group work to take a critical look at the establishment of relationships with First Nations and Learn More

Pathways to Permanent Residence for Temporary Residents

Settlement and Immigration supports are an essential component of BCSIS services. The e-learning module will provide front-line workers with an Learn More

Reflections on Belonging, Relationships, & Responsibilities in Musqueam, Squamish & Tsleil Waututh

In this 2019 lunch and learn webinar, cultural planner Kamala Todd shared her experience as a Metis-Cree living and working Learn More

The Other Side of Trauma: Supporting Newcomers through Healing and Resiliency Centered Engagement

This is the second part of a two-part 2019 webinar series on community based training for working with newcomers with Learn More

Changes to the Cannabis Act: How to Support Newcomers to B.C.

Changes to the Cannabis Act and cannabis-related crimes came into effect October 17 and December 18, 2018 respectively. Knowing and Learn More

2019 Call for Proposals (CFP) Resources; Issue 49

What is the CFP Process? The Call for Proposals (CFP) process is IRCC’s established means of arriving at funding decisions Learn More

BC Employment Standards and Workplace Safety Training for Front-line Workers

This module will educate front-line workers on workplace rights and responsibilities, workplace safety and how to provide assistance to clients Learn More

Unpacking LINC Placement, Delivery and Assessment

This 2019 webinar educated settlement and LINC staff on the roles of LINC assessors and the Canadian Language Benchmarks Placement Learn More

Refugee Integration Support After Year One; Issue 48

Canada holds humanitarian commitments to admit and resettle refugees. Historically, 10% of resettled refugees across the globe have been accepted Learn More

Innovative Outreach Strategies to Reach Newcomers in BC

Not all newcomers arriving to BC access the services available to them. Helping newcomers and those around them become more Learn More

E-Symposium – Newcomer Men’s Integration: Challenges & Perspectives

As “gender” becomes more politicized than ever before, newcomer men have multiple hurdles in their settlement journeys. A lot hinges Learn More

Community Based Training for Working with Immigrants & Refugees

Language is an essential part of our individual and community lives. Newcomers to Canada learn English to contribute to their Learn More

Racial Equity in the Settlement Sector; Issue 47

Studies show that newcomers–especially racialized newcomers–experience discrimination. The sector needs to be more proactive in creating support services to address Learn More

Refugee Mental Health Front-line Workers Training

The training module identifies different refugee categories in Canada, stages of refuge and resettlement stress factors that contribute to mental Learn More

Literacy – Lesson Plans & Classroom Activities

Please Note: You need to be logged into your Tutela account to access Tutela resources. If you are not logged in, the links below will Learn More

National Settlement Council 2018

This video features the highlights of the National Settlement Council meeting held on June 14-15, 2018, in Ottawa.Learn More

Accessing Support Services for International Students

In this webinar held on April 12, 2018, Nicole Armos and Ismaël Traoré, both from AMSSA, presented their research findings Learn More

Journey to Canadian Citizenship

Every year, thousands of new Canadians take the oath of citizenship. Often a long and challenging process, Canadian citizenship requires Learn More

LINC, PBLA and the CLB; Issue 44

Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) was established in 1992 by the federal government to facilitate the social, cultural Learn More

Young Children of Newcomer Families; Issue 45

Each first-generation family is unique and experiences settlement differently. Certain trends, however, affect a sizeable portion of families, especially their Learn More

Bridging Language Learning Assessment With the Real World

This 2018 webinar showcased both smaller and larger centres’ approaches to bridging language learning and assessment with community integration. Three Learn More

Navigating the Settlement Needs of Refugee Claimants

Since 2017, British Columbia has seen an increase in refugee claimant arrivals. Supporting refugee claimants requires specialized expertise and front-line Learn More

Immigration Pathways for Temporary Residents

On February 21, 2018, Heather Michaud of IRCC and Trina McKinlay of the BC PNP presented on Express Entry and Learn More

E-Symposium: Navigating Housing For Newcomers

Finding a home that is suitable and affordable is a major challenge for families and single renters across the province. Learn More

Local Immigration Partnerships: Collaboration Across Sectors

In an effort to increase engagement with newcomers to British Columbia, settlement service providers have increasingly turned to creative partnerships. Learn More

Supporting the Alignment of Pre and Post Arrival Services for Newcomers

This 2017 webinar provided settlement service provider staff with greater knowledge of existing pre-arrival services currently being offered to newcomers Learn More

Census 2016: Immigration and Language in BC; Issue 43

The 2016 Census of Population created a detailed statistical portrait of Canada through mandatory short-form and long-form questionnaires. Data related Learn More

BC Settlement & Language Service Providers’ Provincial Meeting 2017

IRCC funded AMSSA to convene a meeting of provincial representatives from settlement and language service provider organizations across the province. Learn More

Introduction to the Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants Program

Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants is a program that was launched in 2017 to replace the Skills Connect program. Learn Learn More

Newcomers as Volunteers; Issue 42

Statistics Canada describes volunteers as “people who have provided a service, without monetary compensation, for a group or organization at Learn More

AMSSA 40th Anniversary

In celebration of AMSSA’s 40th year anniversary AMSSA created a crowdsourced video. Members, partners and friends of AMSSA shared their Learn More

Supporting Clients With Disabilities

Building on the information shared in the January 2016 Migration Matters Supporting Newcomers with Disabilities edition and responding to the Learn More

Intersectionality and Settlement; Issue 41

The concept of intersectionality refers to “the ways race, class, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, ability, status and other markers of Learn More

E-Symposium: Parenting in a New Country

Newcomer families often juggle integration while preserving their own cultures and languages. As a result, parenting styles or expectations may Learn More

Newcomer Seniors: Supports and Challenges; Issue 40

Although the term “newcomer senior” could refer to any older person who is an immigrant or refugee, the term is Learn More

Newcomer Literacy; Issue 39

Literacy is a set of skills – particularly the cognitive skills of reading and writing, or “reading the world” as Learn More

Connecting Refugee Private Sponsor Groups With Settlement Service Providers

Settlement organizations play an important role in refugee resettlement. Also of importance, is the growing role of the private sponsor. Learn More

Integration Outcomes of Resettled Refugees in Canada; Issue 38

Resettled refugees are refugees who are selected overseas by Canadian officials. Upon arrival in Canada, they receive Permanent Resident status. Learn More

Understanding the Digital Capacity of the Settlement Sector in Canada

This 2017 interactive webinar presented the results of the feedback that Open North collected from more than 250 newcomer settlement Learn More

Refugee Pathways to Settlement

This 2017 video explained the different pathways for refugees coming to Canada, including privately-sponsored refugees, government-assisted refugees, blended visa office-referred Learn More

Social Media, Technology and Settlement Services

For the cohort of Syrian refugees, there has been a rise in the use of social media, such as WhatsApp Learn More

E-Symposium: Newcomer Women – Barriers, Challenges & Supports

Women often face multiple barriers when accessing settlement and language programming. It can be difficult to find appropriate transportation, childcare, Learn More

The Syrian Refugee Initiative in BC

This 2017 meeting brought together stakeholders from across the province to integrate insights from the Syrian Refugee Initiative and identify Learn More

Virtual Learning Exchange: February 22, 2017

During this 2017 Virtual Learning Exchange, participants were able to connect with community stakeholders involved in the settlement & integration Learn More

Assisting Foreign Workers Who Face Risks of Abuse

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Province of BC have developed an expedited open work permit application process Learn More

Forum: Anti-Racism & Anti-Hate Initiatives – Supporting the Integration of Refugees in Our Communities

This forum was a combined in-person and online event bringing together community organizers and experts in the anti-racism and anti-hate Learn More

E-Symposium: Using Physical & Social Activities as Opportunities for Newcomer Integration

Participating in physical and social activities are various ways how newcomers can become integrated into a community. Many of these Learn More

Interprovincial Mobility and Secondary Migration in BC; Issue 37

When newcomers come to Canada, their decisions about where to settle are affected by a number of factors. Although many Learn More

Creating & Maintaining Ethical Boundaries in Client Relationships

This Creating and Maintaining Ethical Boundaries in Client Relationships webinar provided participants with an overview of various professional boundaries that Learn More

Standardized Language Assessments for Settlement and Integration Pathways; Issue 36

To achieve their social, economic, and academic goals, newcomers to Canada may need to prove their proficiency in English for Learn More

Settlement in Smaller Centres 

Settlement in Smaller Centres highlights the challenges and strengths of newcomers settling in smaller communities. In 2003, 10% of newcomers Learn More

Virtual Learning Exchange: Francophone Settlement Services | Échange virtuel de connaissances: Services d’établissement destinés aux francophones

This Virtual Learning Exchange on Francophone Settlement Services, held on December 6, 2016, consisted of three 45 minute webinars about Learn More

Innovative Practices in Employment Language Training for Low Level English Learners

Employment is a key aspect of settlement and integration for newcomers to Canada; however, a lack of language skills often Learn More

Virtual Training: The Benefits of Media Relations

The Benefits of Media Relations virtual training was a customized training that introduced settlement and language providing organizations in BC Learn More

Newcomer Youth: Challenges and Strengths; Issue 35

Approximately 34% of all newcomers to Canada are under age 25. Newcomer youth experience a big life change when moving Learn More

Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) 2016 Meeting

The Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) Meeting held on September 27th, 2016, brought together representatives from each SWIS contract to Learn More

AMSSA Annual General Meeting 2016

The 2016 AMSSA AGM was recorded on September 23rd at the John M.S. Lecky UBC Boathouse. Highlights include: Musqueam Welcome Learn More

The Role of Libraries in Settlement; Issue 34

Public libraries are an important community resource for many community members—as a source of reading and viewing materials, reference information, Learn More

Local Immigration Partnerships; Issue 33

Local Immigration Partnerships (LIPs) are collaborations funded by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to coordinate local community stakeholders in Learn More

Connecting Languages & Cultures Through Interpretation

Professionals working with newcomers rely on verbal and nonverbal communication as the primary tool for forming relationships with newcomers as Learn More

Family, Migration, and Settlement; Issue 32

Family relationships are an integral part of life for most people around the world. Decisions about migration are tied together Learn More

Interfaith Bridging: Building Connections. Building Community

A truly welcoming society is one where everyone feels that they can bring their “whole self” to the community and Learn More

Newcomer Self-Employment and Employment Tips 

This 2016 video draws on the experience of immigrant settlement frontline workers who assist immigrants clients finding employment and becoming Learn More

Diversify Your Funding: Grant-Seeking and Building a Social Enterprise

Developing diverse funding sources is gaining in importance for non-profit organizations. There’s no simple formula that will apply to all Learn More

Newcomer Housing: Barriers, needs and experiences; Issue 31

Finding acceptable housing is a primary concern for many newcomers. In 2011, newcomers who had been in Canada for five Learn More

Purpose Capital Webinar: Exploring Social Finance Models for the Settlement Sector

Date: April 7, 2016 Social finance is attracting increasing attention across Canada, and there is potential for its use in Learn More

Diet, Health, and Settlement; Issue 30

Maintaining a nutritious diet is a key challenge for newcomers to Canada. Poor nutrition has a variety of health consequences, Learn More

Western Region Working Group Webinar: Learn About Western Canada’s Pre-Arrival Immigrant Services

Date: March 29, 2016 The contents of the event included: Introducing pre-arrival immigrant services in the Canadian context Identification of Learn More

Immigrant and Refugee Children in Settlement Programming

These web videos focus on highlighting the issues and needs of immigrant and refugee children and providing settlement workers with Learn More

Collaborative Approaches to Promoting Newcomer Health

Date: March 7, 2016 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver Settlement service providing organizations and organizations in the health care sector have an Learn More

Immigrant Self-Employment and Entrepreneurship; Issue 29

Across many countries, including Canada, immigrants are more likely than non-immigrants to be self-employed. In the late 2000s, about 19% Learn More

Dynamic Workshops: The Fundamentals of Curriculum Development

For Settlement Workers who spend most of their time working one-to-one with clients, the development of workshops to support groups Learn More

Virtual Settlement Learning Exchange 

AMSSA’s first Virtual Settlement Learning Exchange held on February 24, 2016 was an interactive day of exchanging knowledge, resources and Learn More

Trauma Informed Practice: Supporting Clients Who  Have Experienced Complex Trauma

Individuals who have experienced traumatic events may have challenges in various life domains. Complex trauma can result in elevated risks Learn More

Newcomer Health Care: Access and Navigation; Issue 28

Newcomers to Canada are generally healthier than the average Canadian, in what is known as the “healthy immigrant effect.” This Learn More

Supporting Newcomers with Disabilities; Issue 27

1 in 7 adults in Canada report having a disability that limits their daily activities. Although the Immigration and Refugee Learn More

2015 Call For Proposal (CFP) Resources; Issue 23

This resource lists BC and Canadian reports that have a settlement focus and that could be of assistance to organizations Learn More

Cultural Safety: A Person Centred Approach to Communication and Interaction 

Date: December 10, 2015 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver Cultural Safety ensures that service providers become respectful of all aspects Learn More

Syrian Refugee Culture Orientation

This video is a Syrian Refugee Cultural Profile presented by Huda Bukhara, Arab Community Centre of Toronto on December 7 Learn More

New Canadian’s Journey Through the Social Media Landscape; Issue 26

Technology Vs. Human Service Most settlement service providers in Canada have come to view emerging technologies, such as social media, Learn More

Challenges Faced by Immigrant Seniors in BC

These web videos of 2015 focus on highlighting the issues, challenges and successes of immigrant seniors and provides settlement workers Learn More

Building Capacity Through Mentorship Programs

Mentorship programs can be an efficient and rewarding method of building capacity within your client base with minimal cost and Learn More

Strengthening the Canadian Citizenship Act; Issue 25

Before 1947, Canadian nationals were legally defined as British subjects, both in Canada and abroad. With the enactment of the Learn More

Supporting Mental Health for BC’s Most Vulnerable Newcomers 

Date: September 29, 2015 Location: Surrey City Hall, Surrey Good mental and physical health is a key outcome of successful settlement Learn More

Diversity & Inclusion; Issue 24

This edition explores different aspects of diversity and social inclusion in Canada, resources for businesses and organisations, and the legislation Learn More

Maximize Your Impact: Building Collaboration Through Social Media

Social media tools play an important, cost-effective, and efficient role in promoting and marketing settlement services as well as a Learn More

LGBTQ Newcomers: Strengthening Support and Understanding

This series of web videos shot in 2015 focuses on highlighing the issues and needs of LGBTQ immigrants and refugees Learn More

LGBTQ Newcomers: Strengthening Support and Understanding 

Date: May 11, 2015 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver This 2015 e-symposium was an opportunity to provide training and information Learn More

Youth Immigration to British Columbia 

This 2015 web video, created in collaboration with the Vancouver Foundation’s Fresh Voices Youth Advisory Team (YAT), focuses on youth Learn More

Racism & Bullying: What BC Settlement Workers Need to Know

This 2015 web video, focusing on anti-racism and anti-bullying awareness, provided settlement workers with information and tips such as: How Learn More

Burnout to Balance: Self-Care in the Settlement Sector 

Date: March 11, 2015 The Burnout to Balance webinar provided participants with an overview of the unique occupational hazards of Learn More

Immigration to Smaller Centres; Issue 22

Immigrant attraction to small communities is a growing reality in Canada. While over 60% of immigrants to Canada still landed Learn More

Connecting with Industry Councils 

Date: February 23, 2015 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver This e-symposium provided an opportunity to connect industry councils with the Learn More

Building Innovative Partnerships that Work

Date: February 17, 2015 This webinar looked at building innovative partnerships to assist the settlement sector in better serving the Learn More

Migrant Mental Health; Issue 21

Good mental and physical health is a key outcome of successful settlement and integration. While the mental health of immigrants Learn More

Express Entry; Issue 20

Express Entry is an online application management system introduced by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) in January 2015. Express Entry Learn More

Environmental Migrants; Issue 19

For more than 25 years, governments have been aware that climate change may lead to the forced migration of millions Learn More

Immigrant Research in BC and Canada 

Date: December 11, 2014 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver This e-symposium provided an opportunity for Dr. Lori Wilkinson of the Learn More

Facilitation Skills for Settlement Workers 

This 2014 webcast provided Service Provider Organizations (SPOs) concrete and practical information on the topics of: What is facilitation? How Learn More

Settlement Challenges of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Immigrants and Refugees; Issue 18

In July 2005, Canada became the fourth country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage nationwide. Canada is generally considered Learn More

Pre-Arrival Settlement Services; Issue 17

To facilitate faster settlement and economic integration of new immigrants and refugees to Canada, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) funded Learn More

Connecting with Clients: Leveraging Technology in British Columbia’s Settlement Services (Webinar)

Date: September 23, 2014 This webinar, facilitated by Jim Brennan from MISA of North Vancouver Island, covered three topic areas Learn More

Suicide Prevention and Awareness 

This webcast provides Service Provider Organizations (SPOs) concrete and practical information on the topics of: the role of transitions in Learn More

Reforming Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program; Issue 16

On June 20, 2014, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) announced a series of changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program Learn More

Employment for Immigrants 

Date: July 16, 2014 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver This e-symposium provided Service Provider Organizations (SPOs) the opportunity to increase Learn More

From the Inside Out: Building Engagement During Changing Times 

Date: June 23, 2014 This webinar provided Service Provider Organizations (SPOs) the opportunity to reflect on their recent personal and Learn More

Labour Agreements, Employment Program of British Columbia and the Canada Job Grant; Issue 15

With the provincial introduction of the Employment Program of British Columbia on April 2, 2012, Labour Market Programs in British Learn More

CIC Financial Management 

Date: April 23, 2014 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver This e-symposium featured two presentations on the process of managing, monitoring Learn More

Canadian Citizenship; Issue 14

Citizenship is a legal bond between a person and a State. Citizenship is a human right enshrined in international law Learn More

Sanctuary Cities; Issue 13

On February 12, 2014, Hamilton’s city council voted to become Canada’s second Sanctuary City. This Info Sheet provides a brief Learn More

Negotiating Contribution Agreements 

Date: January 8, 2014 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver This e-symposium featured two presentations on the process of negotiating contribution Learn More

National Settlement Conference Debrief & Information Sharing

Date: December 3, 2013 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver This e-symposium featured one presentation and one panel discussion on the Learn More

Temporary Foreign Workers – Part 2: Policy and Analysis; Issue 11

Part 2 of the Temporary Foreign Workers Info Sheet looked at the policies, definitions and the different streams of the Learn More

Temporary Foreign Workers – Part 1: Statistics & Trends; Issue 10

Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) gained significant importance between 2002 and 2012, with over 338,000 TFWs residing in Canada Learn More

International Students: Statistics & Trends; Issue 12

Between 2003 and 2012, Canada admitted a growing number of international students each year. Within the Western Region, most of Learn More

National Household Survey – Highlights; Issue 9

The results of the first National Household Survey (NHS) were released on May 8, 2013 and contained data related to Learn More

Refugees – Statistics & Trends in Canada and BC; Issue 8

In 2012, 23,056 refugees and their families made Canada their home. This AMSSA Info Sheet looks at numbers, trends and Learn More

CIC Contracting, Procurement & Financial Reporting 

Date: May 14 and 15, 2013 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver On May 14 and May 15, 2013, AMSSA hosted Learn More

The Intersection of Poverty and Immigration in BC and Canada; Issue 6

In 2010, British Columbia (BC) had the highest poverty rate in Canada with more than half a million people or Learn More

CIC Western Region – Comparisons with Ontario and the Eastern Region; Issue 7

In April 2012, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) reorganized the British Columbia/Yukon region and the Prairies region into the new Learn More

Immigration Numbers and Statistics – Trends for Canada and BC; Issue 2

Immigration Minister Jason Kenney announced in November 2012 that immigration levels for 2013 would hold steady with a planned 240,000 Learn More

Review: Shaping the Future: Canada’s Rapidly Changing Immigration Policies; Issue 1

Naomi Alboim & Karen Cohl, Maytree Foundation, October 2012 This report on Canada’s immigration policies was published in October 2012 Learn More

Language Census Data 2011 – Trends for Canada and BC; Issue 3

The 2011 census revealed an increase in language diversity in Canada since 2006. Especially in major metropolitan areas in Canada, Learn More

Economic Immigration Class – Trends for Canada and BC; Issue 5

In 2012, Immigration Minister Jason Kenney announced that Canada would re-shuffle its immigration mix with a focus on economic immigration Learn More

Labour Market Statistics – Trends for Canada and BC; Issue 4

In 2012, demographic trends indicated that new permanent residents (PRs) would play an increasingly important part in the labour market. Learn More

Understanding Outcome Evaluation 

Date: June 25, 2012 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver This e-symposium featured two presentations on what outcome evaluation is and Learn More

Immigrant Statistics: Finding and Using Online Information in Immigrant Settlement

Date: February 22, 2012 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver This e-symposium for WelcomeBC settlement service providers explored how to access Learn More

The Guided Pathways Process 

Date: September 28, 2011 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver This E-Symposium was organized by AMSSA on behalf of the Immigrant Learn More

Indigenous Peoples

AMSSA Resources E-Symposium: Introducing Canada’s Newest Residents to its Oldest Peoples: Including First Nations and Aboriginal Content and Relationship-Building in Immigrant Learn More

Introducing Canada’s Newest Residents to its Oldest Peoples: Including First Nations and Aboriginal Content and Relationship-Building in Immigrant Settlement Services 

Date: April 27, 2011 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver With the financial support of the Immigrant Integration Branch of the Learn More

Diabetes & BC Multiethnic Communities 

Date: January 27, 2011 Location: SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver AMSSA, in partnership with Vancouver Coastal Health, hosted a provincial e-symposium Learn More