Settling into a new country involves more than finding services — it means finding your people, your voice, and your place in the community.
At CCSYR, our Community Engagement programs create welcoming spaces where newcomers can practice English, build professional networks, access community resources, and strengthen their overall well-being. Whether you are new to Canada or still finding your footing, there is a place for you here.
Who Are These Programs For?
Our programs are designed for:
- Newcomers and immigrants adjusting to life in York Region
- Internationally educated health care professionals navigating Canadian licensing pathways
- Newcomer families building everyday life skills and community connections
- Individuals experiencing isolation or looking to expand their social and professional networks
All programs are offered in welcoming, inclusive, and culturally responsive environments — at no cost to eligible participants.
Why Newcomers Choose CCSYR
For more than 45 years, CCSYR has been a trusted partner to newcomers, families, and communities across York Region. We understand that the journey of settlement is not only practical — it is personal.
Our Community Engagement programs are built around the belief that belonging is not something you wait to feel. It is something you build — one conversation, one connection, one session at a time.
We offer:
- Culturally responsive and trauma-informed programming
- Multiple locations across York Region
- Evening and online options
- Free programs for eligible newcomers
- Experienced, multilingual staff
Important Eligibility Information
This program is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Only eligible clients may register and participate in this program.
Please bring one of the following documents to the registered event to verify your eligibility:
- Permanent Resident (PR) Card (issued within the last 6 years)
- Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR / Landing Paper)
- Notice of Decision
Professional Networking and Study Groups
If you trained as a physician or nurse outside Canada, you don’t have to navigate the licensing journey alone.
CCSYR’s IEHP Study Groups bring together internationally educated medical graduates (IMGs) and internationally educated nurses (IENs) in structured, peer-supported learning environments. Through collaborative study, professional networking, and mentorship, participants build the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to move forward in Canada’s healthcare system.
What participants gain:
- MCCQE1 Exam Preparation: Online study sessions held every week — focused, guided preparation for one of Canada’s key medical licensing exams.
- NAC OSCE Preparation: Online sessions every week — helping IMGs develop the clinical communication and practical skills assessed in the NAC OSCE.
- Canadian Health Care System Knowledge: Understanding regulations, licensing pathways, and professional expectations.
- Professional English Communication: Strengthening the language skills needed in clinical and professional settings.
- Peer Connection and Mentorship: Building lasting relationships with fellow health care professionals on the same journey.
CCSYR has been supporting internationally educated medical graduates since 2010 — bringing over a decade of specialized experience to every session.
▶ Learn More About IEHP Study Groups
English Conversation Circles
Language is the bridge to everything — work, friendships, services, and daily life. Our English Conversation Circles (ECC) offer relaxed, welcoming sessions where newcomers can practice conversational English, gain confidence, and build genuine community connections.
Sessions run across multiple locations throughout York Region, making it easy to find one near you:
All sessions are open, ongoing, and free for eligible newcomers.
Learn English Through Art — A Creative Path to English Confidence
Looking for a different way to learn? Our Learn English Through Art sessions weave language learning into hands-on creative activities — making English feel natural, not stressful.
These sessions are especially welcoming for participants who find traditional classroom settings intimidating. You learn by doing, sharing, and creating — together.
Well-Being Navigation Activities
Community connection is inseparable from health and well-being. CCSYR’s Well-Being Navigation activities help newcomers access health and mental health resources, reduce isolation, and build the social connections that make everyday life feel manageable.
Wellness & Fitness Café:
Every Thursday, 2:30–4:00 PM — Richmond Hill Welcome Centre
A welcoming in-person session combining light fitness, social connection, and wellness education. Come move, connect, and take care of yourself in a supportive group setting.
Empowering Mastering You:
Every Tuesday, 6:30–7:30 PM — Online (May through December)
An evening online program designed around self-empowerment, mental wellness, and navigating community supports. Accessible from home — no travel required.
Both programs are conducted in English and are open to eligible newcomers in York Region.
One-to-One Family Matching
Sometimes what you need most is someone to walk alongside you — literally and figuratively. Our One-to-One Family Matching activities provide hands-on, personalized support to help newcomers build the practical skills and confidence to navigate daily life in Canada.
Working with a dedicated CCSYR staff member, participants can:
- Explore local services: Libraries, museums, pharmacies, post offices, shops, and public services — learning how things work and how to access them.
- Get practical help: Assistance with library card registration, program sign-ups, and connecting to community resources.
- Build digital literacy: Guidance on tools like LinkedIn and online platforms that support integration, networking, and employment.
- Join skill-building workshops: Sessions that combine practical knowledge with community connection.
One-to-One support is available at Welcome Centres across York Region, tailored to each participant’s individual schedule and needs.
Indigenous — Newcomer Connections
Canada’s history belongs to all of us — and understanding it is part of building a life here. CCSYR’s Indigenous-Newcomer Connections activities create meaningful opportunities for newcomers, Indigenous Peoples, and the broader community to learn from one another, share experiences, and build genuine relationships.
Through cultural awareness events and social activities, participants:
- Deepen their understanding of Indigenous history, culture, and perspectives
- Build cross-cultural connections and friendships
- Participate in events that mark significant dates, including Truth and Reconciliation observances and National Indigenous Peoples’ Day
- Strengthen the ties that make York Region a more inclusive and connected community
These activities run throughout the year as special events. Watch our Events Calendar for upcoming dates.
Cultural Events and Community Celebrations
Community life in Canada is full of celebrations — and newcomers are a vital part of them. Throughout the year, CCSYR organizes cultural events that bring newcomers and community members together around shared moments of joy and reflection.
These events are open to the whole community and offer a warm, welcoming space to celebrate, connect, and feel at home in York Region.
Find Us Near You
Our programs run across York Region — at our head office, Welcome Centres and public libraries close to where you live.
Important Eligibility Information
This program is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Only eligible clients may register and participate in this program.
Please bring one of the following documents to the registered event to verify your eligibility:
- Permanent Resident (PR) Card (issued within the last 6 years)
- Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR / Landing Paper)
- Notice of Decision
Find your event
Not Sure Where to Start?
What is Community Engagement at CCSYR?
Community Engagement at CCSYR includes programs that help newcomers build English communication skills, professional networks, social connections, and access to community resources. Programs include English Conversation Circles, IEHP Study Groups, One-to-One Family Matching, Well-Being Navigation activities, and Indigenous-Newcomer Connection events.
Who can join CCSYR Community Engagement programs?
Programs are open to newcomers, immigrants, internationally educated professionals, and newcomer families in York Region. Most IRCC-funded programs are available to eligible newcomers. Contact CCSYR to confirm your eligibility for specific activities.
Are the programs free?
Yes — most programs are free for eligible newcomers. Contact CCSYR to learn more about eligibility and registration.
Do I need strong English to participate?
No. English Conversation Circles and Learn English Through Art sessions are specifically designed to help participants improve their English in a welcoming, low-pressure environment. You do not need fluent English to join.
Where are programs held?
Programs run at multiple Welcome Centres across York Region — including Richmond Hill, Newmarket, Vaughan, and Markham — as well as at public libraries including Aurora Public Library and Richvale Library. Some programs are also available online.
Are there evening or online programs available?
Yes. The Empowering Mastering You well-being program runs online every Tuesday evening, 6:30–7:30 PM. IEHP study groups (MCCQE1 and NAC OSCE preparation) also run online in the evenings, Monday through Thursday, 7:00–9:00 PM.
I am an internationally educated doctor or nurse. What support is available for me?
CCSYR offers dedicated online study groups for IMGs preparing for the MCCQE1 and NAC OSCE exams, as well as peer networking and professional community-building activities for IENs. CCSYR has supported internationally educated health professionals since 2010.
How do I register or find out more?
You can call CCSYR at 905-770-7040, email ccsyr@ccsyr.org, or book an appointment online at ccsyr.org/booking. You can also use the contact form on this page.