We empower thousands of immigrant and newcomer youth and help them overcome emotional, cultural and socio-economic barriers. We teach them about Canada and Calgary’s culture and encourage active participation within the local community. Through workshops, individual support, mentorship and field trips we develop their personal, social and leadership skills. We also offer academic support to help ESL students improve their English and their grades, ensuring successful graduation from school.

CORE VALUES | We serve humanity with humility.

MISSION | We walk with immigrant and refugee youth and their families as they build a life in Canada.

VISION | Resilient youth thrive in vibrant and inclusive communities.We run five major programs:
• Mentorship Program
• Afterschool Program
• RBC Youth Empowerment Program
• Transition Into Post-Secondary (TIPS)
• Volunteer Resource Program

Through these programs, we deliver one-on-one support, tutoring, guidance, workshops, field trips and hands-on learning activities to kids who have a difficult time integrating into their school and community. We also deliver programs right where the need is. 

We are the first point of contact for any newcomer family looking to register their children in school. We have offices in the reception centres of the public and Catholic school board. This allows us to provide one-on-one support to newcomer families and to direct their children into programs that best suit their needs. We even meet with families at their homes during evenings and weekends.

All our youth programs occur within schools, libraries or housing complexes in economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods or communities with a high population of immigrants. We serve individuals who are most in need of services. By reaching out to them, we eliminate barriers to access and have direct access to newcomers.

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YOUTH SUPPORT | Adolescence tends to be a vulnerable time for youth but newcomers face additional challenges as they try to settle into a new city, a new school and a community with new values. Some experience fear, sadness, loneliness, aggression and even depression. At CBFY, we empower children by teaching them valuable social, emotional, academic and life skills. Youth are exposed to local culture and norms as they make friends and get matched with mentors.

FAMILY SUPPORT | When a family arrives in a new country they face a series of challenges. Everything from employment, learning English, or understanding health, transportation, banking and school systems can be daunting. At CBFY, we connect families to a staff member who is either from the same cultural background or speaks the newcomer’s native language. We create individualized plans to help the entire family successfully settle into the community.

SUMMER SUPPORT | Summer is a time for fun but it can be hard to find fun things to do if you’re new to the country. This is why CBFY hosts youth summer programs right within schools. We engage newcomers in healthy activities that help them explore Calgary while learning about Canadian culture.

Click here to learn more about our programs.You can make a difference! We often get asked, “What’s the best way to help?”

Our answer is simple: We need passionate people to spread awareness about the issues facing our young immigrant youths, then raise money to help solve them. So roll up your sleeves and use that laptop. It’s your most powerful tool!

You can follow us on | Facebook | Twitter | or Email  [email protected]

Here are a few ideas to get you thinking…  

SPEAKER ZONE | Request a speaker to learn how we are building Calgary’s next generation of leaders. Speakers are available throughout the year to talk to employees, service clubs, volunteers and anyone interested in supporting us. Become a speaker if you would like to inspire our youth. If you are a successful leader with an immigrant background, we want to hear from you. A little inspiration can ease the journey for many of our city’s young newcomers and immigrants. Share your story and fuel the next generation of Canadians. Email [email protected] to turn that interest into action!

PLEDGE YOUR BIRTHDAY | What better way to celebrate your birthday than to have fun and help at the same time? Put the fun in fundraising by hosting a birthday party with a purpose. Invite family and friends to donate money of gifts to our charity so you can make your special day extra special by giving back. Whether you’re turning 17 or 47, there are tons of fun ways to make your next birthday one that people won’t forget. If you are ready to make your upcoming birthday an extra special one, email [email protected] for ideas and tips.

SCHOLARSHIPS | Many of the youth in our programs have simple dreams – to graduate from high school, join university, find work and give back to the country that has embraced them. Unfortunately, not all of them can financially support those dreams. You can change that! Your support will fulfil the dreams of students who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership and community involvement. If you donate $1,000 or more you can create a legacy by naming your scholarship.