On September 15, 2014, the Community Initiatives for Immigrant Seniors Program launched a new initiative “ Civic Education for Seniors” that focused on promoting civic education among older adults 55 years of age and over. The objective of the program was to encourage greater civic participation among senior clients by providing information about Canada in a culturally and language appropriate setting, thereby removing barriers to civic integration. The classes were taught by CISP staff who have been trained by ISC’s Civic Educators. Through interesting presentations and interactive activities, the instructors helped immigrant seniors learn about Canadian culture and heritage, life in Canada, the Canadian systems, as well as the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizens. Lesson plans were based on the ‘ Discover Canada’ study guide, and special efforts were made to provide the classes in simple English suited to the client’s needs. The program concluded on November 17, 2014 and on November 24, 2014, the participants were awarded with a course completion certificate.
