Cyber Security Awareness Month is an internationally recognized campaign held each October to inform the public of the importance of cyber security. Information on how cyber threats work, how they affect you, how to protect yourself and how to protect your small business is provided. This campaign’s aim is focused on helping Canadians be more secure online, by being informed and knowing how to protect themselves. To learn more, visit https://www.getcybersafe.gc.ca/index-en.aspx.
The Influenza Immunization Clinics will start on the week of October 21, 2019. Vaccines will be available at local clinics across Alberta and are offered free of charge to all Albertans six months of age and older. To see what where immunization clinics are in Alberta, visit https://public-share.albertahealthservices.ca/webapps/ImmunizationScheduler/Pages/Search.aspx
Today, October 21, 2019 is election day in Canada. Canada runs on a democratic government and allows their Canadian citizens to vote for their political party/leaders. Each political party has their own platform that summarizes a list of policies that the party wants to fulfill if they are elected. The right to vote is how many Canadian citizens are able to influence the decisions about how their country is governed. Votes are done by secret ballot meaning no one will know which party a specific voter has voted for.
On October 16, 2019, Immigrant Services Calgary hosted the “It’s Not Right!” Presenter Training. It’s Not Right! (INR) is a public education program that is designed to teach community members of all ages to recognize the warning signs of elder abuse, how to respond safely and supportively, and where to find help for older adults that are at risk. The training was conducted by Margaret MacPherson, the INR project coordinator from Ontario. Thank you to all the participants for taking part in this wonderful initiative!
For the past 8 years on October 1st, 2019, Immigrant Services Calgary’s Seniors Program has been hosting National Seniors Day to recognize the remarkable contributions that seniors make to their families, communities and society.
This year, National Seniors Day will be happening on October 1st from 1:30 to 3:30 PM at the New Central Library “Patricia A. Whelan” Performance Hall. There will be multicultural performances, information booths and displays, inspiring stories and also light refreshments. Join us to celebrate our seniors!
Immigrant Services Calgary will host its fourth Virtual Career Fair (VCF) on October 2 & 3, 2019. The event is free for professional newcomer job seekers and will be accessible online across Canada. There will be 20+ organizations participating, offering 1000+ jobs for various industries and positions targeting all newcomers. Companies will also be hosting live webinars to discuss various topics both days, viewers will also be able to ask questions at the end of each session. At the Virtual Career Fair, you will be able to interact with recruiters and employers, apply for jobs and get more information on the careers available in Canada! Register online today at vcf.settlementcalgary.com!
United Voices: Immigrant Youth Wellness Summit presented by HEADSTRONG is the first summit of its kind in Canada. Youth from all backgrounds between the ages 12 and 20 are invited to register to take part in a fun day including stories from inspirational immigrant speakers, interactive break-out sessions, great food and more, while learning how to battle the stigma surrounding mental health. Youth who wants to take action on the stigma surrounding mental health, learn skills and confidence to become an advocate for mental health are encouraged to come.
The City of Calgary has passed a new safe passing bylaw coming into effect on September 1, 2019. This bylaw requires motorists who are driving slower than 60km/hr to have at least one metre of space when passing a cyclist. Cyclists who are driving faster than 60 km/hr will need to have at least 1.5 meters of space when passing. Additionally, drivers can now legally cross a solid yellow line (when safe to do so) to pass a cyclist. Those who fail to leave the minimum safe passing distance may result in a $203 fine.
The Open for Business Act was passed to help reduce burdens on employers. This means that there are changes to the employment standard rules. On September 1, 2019, the act will give employers and employees the option of having straight-time banked overtime hours arrangements. Additionally, the act will return to the previous general holiday pay and banks overtime rules. This will not require employers to provide holiday pay even if they are not open that day.
Over the weekend, Immigrant Services Calgary (ISC) hosted a Habesha United BBQ & Soccer Tournament in collaboration with the Habesha United Soccer Club and Excel Family & Youth Society at the Bridgeland Riverside Community Association. This free event showcased the culture of the Eritrean and Ethiopian Communities through a coffee ceremony, cultural resource booths, kids activities and a youth soccer tournament. Entertainment included cultural dances, face painting, henna and also a fashion show. ISC would like to thank the many participants who came and participated and also the organizations who made this successful event possible.
