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Host Program


Click for Host August calendar
Click for Host August Newsletter

The Host Program is a friendship-based matching program designed to help newcomers link to diverse social networks in our community. While building a new friendship, host volunteers will help with newcomers’ priorities such as learning about Canada and the Abbotsford community, developing new social networks, obtaining services and practicing English.
This program, which has been implemented in numerous communities across Canada, has proven to be a mutually rewarding experience for both hosts and newcomers. Abbotsford is the third most ethnically diverse city in Canada. As a result, volunteers have the opportunity to learn about other languages and cultures and to experience the richness of our diverse community from a new perspective.
If you would like to play a major role in continuing to make Abbotsford a generous and welcoming place for newcomers, this might be the program for you. Volunteers can enroll as individuals or families and may be eligible for the Abbotsford Community Services Volunteer Certificate.

Host Program Conversation Circle:
Both newcomers and volunteers are invited to drop in for friendship and conversation at our weekly Conversation Circles. This program is FREE. Discussions are organized around a theme, with the goal of familiarizing newcomers with Canadian culture.

Tuesdays from 1:00 - 2:00
Gurdwara Sahib Kalgidhar Darbar, 30640 Blueridge Drive
Room 119

Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1:00 – 2:00
Abbotsford Community Services, 2420 Montrose Avenue
Room 300 in the Old Courthouse building.

For more information, both newcomers and potential volunteers can contact Andrea Dykshoorn (program coordinator) at 604.217.3055 or email Andrea.Dykshoorn@abbotsfordcommunityservices.com.