Who We Are

For over 40 years, Immigrant Services Calgary has been an integral part of the Calgary community, working to make a meaningful difference in the lives of newcomers. Through our work, we ensure families and individuals have the support they need to successfully begin a new chapter of their lives in Canada. We continually innovate in our work, reimagining and transforming the newcomer experience to make it easier to connect with services and support in the way that’s best for our clients.

In 2021, Immigrant Services Calgary launched Gateway—a collaboration among organizations to better serve and support newcomers who choose to make Alberta their new home. Traditionally, the settlement sector in Calgary was siloed, with each organization functioning individually, rather than in coordination with one another. For newcomers entering the city, this meant there was no clear path of which services to access and when. Gateway partners work collaboratively to ensure all newcomers are given appropriate referrals and clear directions on how to quickly achieve their personal and professional goals in their new homeland.

Our Vision: Unleashing the economic, social, and civic potential of clients.

Our Mission: Connecting newcomers to the right service at the right agency, every time.

Our Values: We are forward-thinking, adaptable, and optimistic. We value accountability, collaboration, and impactfulness. We act with integrity and treat people with respect.

What We Do

Though they have unique stories, all newcomers have one thing in common: a personal history that predates their arrival in Canada. Some are doctors, entrepreneurs, and artists, while others are students, caregivers, and parents—all are individuals with personal dreams for their future. We help them build those dreams in Canada. We help newcomers:

• Learn about daily life in Canada
• Find a place to live
• Find a job
• Assess English language skills and access language classes
• Learn about government benefits and community resources

Our impact (2016-2023)

• 152,787 newcomers helped to build thriving lives in Calgary
• 45,402 language tests executed to help newcomers access English language classes, schooling and certifications
• 68,024 assessments completed to ensure newcomers are connected to the best programs and services to meet their needs

What You Can Do

Whether they’ve moved to Canada to build a better future, or are escaping poverty and war, newcomers bring along with them a wealth of experiences and knowledge. Despite their desire to succeed in their new homeland, many fall through the cracks of a complex support system and are unable to build thriving lives. Our vision is to help newcomers realize their dreams and unleash their economic, social, and civic potential.

By supporting Immigrant Services Calgary, you’re investing in the future of new Canadians, and the future of our community.