Our Community Blogs share stories from across our work with equity-deserving communities, highlighting AHC programs, partnerships, and community-led initiatives in action. Through reflections, updates, and success stories, we showcase how culturally responsive programming and inclusive service delivery support individuals and groups to strengthen wellbeing and build capacity.
Alongside program insights, you’ll find community success stories and testimonials that reflect the impact of collaboration, participation, and grassroots leadership. Together, these blogs offer a practical and people-first look at how communities are advancing their own wellbeing and prosperity, with AHC walking alongside them as a partner.
The Community Development Unit (CDU) is excited to share our continued commitment to community capacity building, and to make 2025 a year of growth and impactful engagement, building upon the strong foundations AHC has established with diverse grassroot groups and ethno-cultural communities across Edmonton and beyond.
Over the past several years, the AHC CDU has fostered meaningful relationships with new immigrant community members from diverse communities from Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, Central Asia, and Central America. Our dedicated team, though small, has achieved remarkable success in connecting with and supporting a growing number of Alberta based grassroot groups, including members of community associations of Tajikistan, Belarussian, Senegalese, Japanese, and Ugandan communities in the Greater Edmonton area, among others.
Ugandan community showcasing their music & traditional instrumentsThis year, we are expanding our outreach, providing vital support such as resource connection, mentorship in proposal writing, and assistance with activity planning. We are thrilled that several community groups will be prepared to apply for the AHC Seed Grant in March in a meeting with the AHC Community Development Review Committee (CDAC). The CDAC plays a crucial role in reviewing and approving proposals for community-led initiatives.
2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for the AHC CDU and the communities we serve. We have planned a lineup of engaging events like Communities of Practice (CoPs), Building Inclusive Community – 4th Annual Forum, and AHC's CDAC Meetings, along with continued efforts to build new connections and provide support to more equity-deserving community-based grassroot groups. Our definitive goal remains to build a healthier, vibrant, and inclusive community for all societies across Alberta.
Lebanese community dances to their traditional tunes Belarussians celebrate traditional ChristmasIn the coming months, we will be sharing inspiring stories of success, highlighting challenges mitigated through community capacity building initiatives, and showcasing innovative initiatives led by committed community leaders. These stories will demonstrate the positive change happening within their respective communities and the power of collaborative action.
As we enter a new year, the AHC Community Development Unit (CDU) is excited to share our continued commitment to community capacity building, to make 2025 a year of growth and impactful engagement, building upon the strong foundations AHC has established with diverse grassroots groups and ethno-cultural communities across Alberta.
On February 22nd, 2025, the ELYCA (Empowering Leadership in Youth through Community Action) Program of Action for Healthy Communities had an amazing opportunity to host its Youth Action Forum and Impact Sharing event at the Santa Marie Goretti Centre in Edmonton.
The event was attended by a diverse group of community members and youth from equity-deserving groups across the city. Through thought-provoking discussions, group sessions, and a dynamic panel, participants explored topics like cultural identity and diversity, and social issues & systems. Our participants also learned about project sustainability and partnership, and how to apply these concepts in their community projects.
We want to extend our sincere thanks to all who attended, engaged, and shared in meaningful conversations. All our youth participants displayed incredible passion and determination to be active participants and changemakers in our society.
The ELYCA Program is dedicated to providing young people with a platform to turn their ideas into action, empowering them to help build a more inclusive Canada and strengthen youth resilience.
Read more about this event from CityNews
On March 25, 2025, Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) hosted its highly anticipated semi-annual Career Fair at the Signature Sandman Hotel in Downtown Edmonton. The event brought together 23 prominent Employer Partners from diverse industries and over 350 participants, creating a vibrant atmosphere of opportunity and networking. This career fair is crucial to AHC's ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between newcomers, permanent residents, and potential employers in the Edmonton job market.
"It is important for AHC to help newcomers adjust to their new homes and bring home an income," said AHC's Employer Engagement Liaison Colin Pon. "For us at AHC, it's encouraging to see so many newcomers who want to find jobs and contribute back to the local economy."
The event showcased a wide array of industries, featuring employers such as Sandman Hotel, GardaWorld, Dexterra, and Canadian Road Builders, among others. This diverse representation ensured that clients from various backgrounds and skill sets could find relevant opportunities. The fair's success was immediately evident, with two participating employers reporting promising outcomes: one shortlisted 30 individuals for interviews, while another identified 10 potential candidates.
Garda World representative Richard meeting with out AHC clients."This gives us a really great opportunity to really source and find a really amazing canidiates," said GardaWorld representative Richard. " provides us all well seasoned candidates that know already the background of our industry."
For newcomers and permanent residents, the career fair offered a unique opportunity to interact directly with HR representatives from leading companies. This face-to-face interaction not only allowed clients to present their skills and experiences but also helped them understand the Canadian labor market better. Many participants appreciated the chance to meet with our preferred Employer Partners.
The success of this career fair underscores the importance of such events in fostering economic integration and community development. As Alberta continues to welcome newcomers and address labor market needs, initiatives like AHC's Career Fair play a crucial role in connecting talent with opportunity.
"Now there's a general myth that you can't get certain jobs without Canadian experience," said RBC representative Folake Okusanya, "I'm happy to debunk that myth because...very kind of experience is relevant, whether from Canada or not."
Looking ahead, AHC plans to build on this success by organizing more targeted industry-specific events and expanding its employer network. The organization remains committed to supporting its clients and contributing to the vibrant, diverse workforce that drives Alberta's and Edmonton's economies forward.
"We're are thankful for all our clients and recruiters who joined us and making this career fair a success," said Pon.
On March 7, 2025, Action for Healthy Communities organized and hosted an enriching Entrepreneurship Grant Writing Bootcamp, which was specifically aimed at equipping participants with the essential knowledge and practical tools they need to successfully secure financial grants for their businesses.
“I attended private grant workshops before, but this one far surpassed anything I learned before," said one boot camp participant.
This informative session, led by Dr. Lars Hallstrom, placed a strong emphasis on the importance of understanding and applying the LogFrame, also known as the Logic Model. Many attendees expressed their appreciation for the facilitator’s clear communication and engaging teaching style, which made complex concepts much easier to grasp. Participants found value in learning how this logical framework could be effectively adapted to various writing contexts, especially in relation to grant and Request for Proposal (RFP) applications.
“ xcellent workshop by the right facilitator, and planned and supervised by excellent people — Tulin, Lida — and the rest of their team at AHC,” said another boot camp participant.
Workshop led by Dr. Lars Hallstrom, PhD.Throughout the duration of the workshop, entrepreneurs not only explored numerous funding opportunities available to them but also engaged in lively discussions regarding eligibility requirements for different grants. Furthermore, they learned practical and effective strategies for writing compelling and persuasive grant proposals that would capture the attention of potential funders.
Importantly, the workshop also provided participants with a valuable opportunity to network with each other, exchanging ideas and building connections that could benefit their businesses in the future. In addition, they had the unique chance to receive personalized, one-on-one feedback from the workshop professor. This expert generously offered to review grant applications at no cost, provided that they were submitted in advance, ensuring that participants could refine their proposals further and increase their chances of success in securing funding.
“Very grateful to have this workshop. Thank you very much, Action for Healthy Communities, for organizing this.”
They say life is sweeter with chocolates. But what's even sweeter is making a living by making chocolates.
Yereni Ramirez is the heart and hands behind Chocolate Don Marín, an exceptional business deeply rooted in rich tradition, boundless creativity, and unyielding passion. Yereni has been a dedicated participant in our AHC Entrepreneurship Support Programs, diligently completing every course that we have offered over the years. She has not only applied the invaluable knowledge she gained to enhance her own business but has also stepped into the role of a mentor and a source of inspiration within our vibrant community
Her active participation in various markets throughout the city has been noteworthy, with a special emphasis on her strong connections with Strathcona Market. She seizes every opportunity presented by our organization, always arriving with a contagious enthusiasm, remarkable professionalism, and a generous spirit that uplifts those around her.
"I loved being part of these events! Thank you, AHC, so much for the opportunity to participate," said Ramirez.
Yereni was prominently featured as an entrepreneur at the prestigious International Research Salon Expo, where she had the honor of representing her beloved business, Chocolate Don Marín. Her participation in this significant event showcased her growing influence and unwavering dedication to building meaningful connections across diverse cultures and communities.
In addition to her achievements as a successful business owner, Yereni is a recognized community leader and mentor. She is frequently invited to share her expertise and inspire others within the food industry, demonstrating her collaborative nature and steadfast commitment to uplifting those around her. This has firmly established her as a key figure within Edmonton’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
"It is very entertaining and full of meaningful content. I’m also interested in connecting with other entrepreneurs," she said.
Currently, Yereni is enthusiastically planning to organize her very own holistic market. This exciting venture will beautifully combine her deep love for food, wellness, and community building—serving as a perfect reflection of her core values and vision for an inclusive community. Through this initiative, she aims to foster connections, support local producers, and create spaces where individuals can come together to celebrate the intersection of health and culinary delight.
The March 15, 2025, Community Development Advisory Committee (CDAC) review meeting was a successful forum for Community Initiative Groups to present their impactful ideas for community well-being. Initiatives ranged from promoting physical and mental wellness to fostering connection through language, culture, and traditions.
Representatives presented to four CDAC members, who offered valuable feedback to ensure measurable outcomes. We are delighted to announce that 9 applications were approved for Seed Grants between $1,700 and $2,000. These grants will be distributed in April after the groups finalize their agreements.
Over the past months, CDU has been working closely with several community groups, engaging in thoughtful dialogue and helping to mobilize ideas that will have a lasting impact. We are proud to share that 10 groups have qualified for the Seed Grant Application process, each of which has been mentored and carefully prepared to present their proposals to the CDAC.
The following communities and their initiatives include:
CDU team will continue to work with the group whose application was returned with feedback and recommendations for improvement. As we move forward, the team will be working closely with them in the coming months, providing guidance and support as they refine their initiative and activity plans. We are confident that with this additional work, they will be ready to reapply in the next CDAC review and take the next step toward making a positive impact.
As we move forward, CDU remains committed to supporting community-driven projects, empowering groups to make meaningful contributions, and helping create a more inclusive and vibrant Edmonton for all.
For many newcomer families in Canada, accessing the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a critical step toward achieving financial stability. The CCB provides eligible families with tax-free monthly payments to help cover the costs of raising children. However, many newcomers face significant challenges when trying to apply for and access this benefit.
Language barriers, unfamiliarity with the tax system, and lack of access to accurate information often prevent newcomer families from applying or cause delays in receiving their benefits. Additionally, families with complex immigration statuses, such as refugee claimants, or those awaiting permanent residency, frequently encounter confusion about their eligibility. These barriers leave many struggling to meet their children’s basic needs without the financial support they are entitled to.
Recognizing this gap, Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) stepped in to provide dedicated support services to help newcomer families navigate the CCB application process. Through a combination of one-on-one assistance, group information sessions, and tax clinics, AHC ensures that families understand their eligibility, complete the necessary forms accurately, and avoid common pitfalls that can lead to delays or denials.
AHC’s multilingual staff and volunteers play a vital role in delivering these services, offering support in languages such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Ukrainian, Somali, Oromo and Amharic, Spanish and more. This cultural and linguistic accessibility is instrumental in helping break down communication barriers, ensuring that clients clearly understand the process and their entitlements.
In addition to standard applications, AHC also provides specialized support for families with unique cases. For instance, some newcomers may struggle with incomplete immigration documentation or lack a Canadian bank account, making it difficult to meet CRA’s verification requirements. AHC works collaboratively with these clients to gather the necessary documents, liaise with government agencies when needed, and advocate on their behalf to resolve issues. Moreover, AHC’s tax clinics offer direct assistance with tax filing, which is a crucial prerequisite for receiving CCB payments. By helping low-income families file their taxes on time, AHC reduces the risk of delays or missed payments and even poor outcomes during to financial instability or families lacking financial resources.
Through its initiatives, Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) has empowered hundreds of newcomer families to successfully access the Canada Child Benefit (CCB). This financial support plays a transformative role in helping families cover essential expenses such as childcare, school supplies, and food security, reducing the risk of financial instability and its associated hardships.
An Afghan father of seven children, who moved to Canada in May 2023, shared his family’s struggles with applying for the CCB.
“Despite seeking help from a friend, a language barrier left us unclear about the CCB application steps. After waiting 14 months, we received a request from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for extensive documentation, which caused further confusion.”
Feeling disheartened by the complexity and lack of support, the family gave up on pursuing the CCB and instead resorted to borrowing money from friends to meet their basic needs—further straining their already fragile financial situation.
In September 2024, while attending NorQuest College, the client was referred to Action for Healthy Communities (AHC), where Mina connected with them to assess their needs. The client received step-by-step guidance, starting with a clear explanation of the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and its role in supporting families. Mina helped the client contact the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), interpret their conversation, and clarify their situation.
Thanks to Mina’s timely and consistent support, the CRA extended their deadline and assured the family that their application would not be declined if they submitted the required documents.
Beyond CCB support, Mina continued to assist the family by interpreting at medical appointments, drafting letters to the children’s school, and connecting them with other organizations to address their challenges. Her dedication and advocacy provided the family with much-needed stability and access to essential resources.
While Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) has successfully supported many newcomer families in accessing the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), there is still much work to be done. The recent changes , in Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) policies have reduced agency capacity to meet the growing demand for client support and case management services. With fewer resources available, providing individualized assistance has become increasingly challenging, making it harder for vulnerable families to navigate the complex application processes for benefits like the CCB.
In response, AHC remains committed to expanding its financial literacy opportunities through informational conversation circles to empower newcomers with the knowledge and tools needed to independently manage their tax obligations and access government benefits. Through tailored workshops, multilingual resources, and ongoing support, AHC aims to enhance clients’ financial independence, reducing their reliance on case management services.
Additionally, AHC will continue to advocate for equitable access to financial support by collaborating with policymakers and community partners. By highlighting the barriers faced by newcomers and the impact of reduced funding. Additionally, Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) will continue to advocate for equitable access to financial support by collaborating with policymakers, community partners, and sector organizations. Through active participation in policy discussions, roundtables, and advocacy campaigns, AHC aims to raise awareness about the systemic challenges faced by newcomers, particularly in accessing benefits like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
By highlighting the barriers newcomers encounter—such as language difficulties, complex documentation requirements, and limited digital literacy—AHC will push for policy adjustments that simplify application processes and enhance accessibility. Furthermore, AHC will emphasize the far-reaching impact of reduced funding on service delivery, showcasing how resource limitations hinder the agency’s ability to provide vital case management support and meet the rising demand for services.
Through ongoing collaboration with settlement networks, government representatives, and advocacy groups, AHC will strive to influence policy reforms that promote fairer access to financial benefits, ensuring that vulnerable newcomer families are not left behind.
While Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) has successfully supported many newcomer families in accessing the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), there is still much work to be done. The recent changes , in Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) policies have reduced agency capacity to meet the growing demand for client support and case management services. With fewer resources available, providing individualized assistance has become increasingly challenging, making it harder for vulnerable families to navigate the complex application processes for benefits like the CCB.
In response, AHC remains committed to expanding its financial literacy opportunities through informational conversation circles to empower newcomers with the knowledge and tools needed to independently manage their tax obligations and access government benefits. Through tailored workshops, multilingual resources, and ongoing support, AHC aims to enhance clients’ financial independence, reducing their reliance on case management services.
Additionally, AHC will continue to advocate for equitable access to financial support by collaborating with policymakers and community partners. By highlighting the barriers faced by newcomers and the impact of reduced funding. Additionally, Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) will continue to advocate for equitable access to financial support by collaborating with policymakers, community partners, and sector organizations. Through active participation in policy discussions, roundtables, and advocacy campaigns, AHC aims to raise awareness about the systemic challenges faced by newcomers, particularly in accessing benefits like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).
By highlighting the barriers newcomers encounter—such as language difficulties, complex documentation requirements, and limited digital literacy—AHC pushes for policy adjustments that simplify application processes and enhance accessibility. Furthermore, AHC will emphasize the far-reaching impact of reduced funding on service delivery, showcasing how resource limitations hinder the agency’s ability to provide vital case management support and meet the rising demand for services.
Through ongoing collaboration with settlement networks, government representatives, and advocacy groups, AHC will strive to influence policy reforms that promote fairer access to financial benefits, ensuring that vulnerable newcomer families are not left behind.
Despite the growing challenges, AHC remains steadfast in its mission to promote the long-term financial stability and well-being of newcomer families, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to thrive.
Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) continues to play a transformative role in helping newcomer families access the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and achieve greater financial stability. By leveraging its unique advantages, AHC effectively reduces language and financial literacy barriers, guiding clients through complex application processes and preventing vulnerable families from missing out on essential benefits.
The client testimony highlights the importance of culturally responsive and hands-on support, exemplified by AHC staff dedicated assistance. Walking Clients through a step-by-step process that included education, capacity building and development around CCB eligibility, to advocating with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), enabled the family to overcome bureaucratic challenges and successfully secure their benefits.
We at Action for Healthy Communities are deeply saddened by the tragic incident during Lapu-Lapu Day in Vancouver earlier this week.
We extend our condolences to the victims, their families, the Filipino community across Canada, and all others in the City of Vancouver who were affected by this tragedy.
Starting over in Canada as a newcomer has many challenges—finding a new place to live, adapting to the language and culture, and of course, finding employment.
To help newcomers learn a variety of skills, and prepare for different careers, the Employment Team offers Workforce Participation Programs (WPPs). During the last week of April, the Employment Team debuted its WPP for Ironwork, in collaboration with A&H Steel.
Ironwork is one of Alberta’s Red Seal Trades—a physically demanding and technically challenging process of building structures using rebar (iron rods) to support construction. As a core construction trade, Alberta desperately needs Ironworkers to build homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. For the last several years, fewer people have registered to become Ironwork Apprentices, leading to a shortage of workers.
This is where AHC and A&H worked together: connecting newcomers looking for a career, and an industry seeking out new approaches to finding workers. For five days, the Ironwork WPP students participated in a mix of classroom training, simulation exercises with rebar and tools, interviews, and a field trip to an A&H job site to watch real Ironworkers in action. At the end of this process, some of the WPP students were selected for a paid, two-week job opportunity, with an aim to full-time apprenticeship and work in the field.
“It’s an honour to be there,” said one of the students who was selected for the job opportunity. “I’m looking forward to working in this field.”
Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) Settlement and Integration program hosted its annual FREE Tax Clinic for individuals and families with low income, from March 3 to May 16, 2025. To better assist the community, the tax clinic at AHC’s main office in Edmonton will continue until May 16, operating Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
"Filing taxes is more than a legal requirement in Canada—it’s a key step in accessing government benefits and community services," said Settlement and Integration Program Manager Suraj Khatiwada. "Through this initiative, AHC ensures that all low-income Canadian residents have the support they need to take advantage of these important opportunities."
Our team has assisted individuals across Edmonton at AHC's main office, the c5 Hub, and Mill Woods Seniors Association. This volunteer-driven program has already supported over 2,500 clients in March and April, thanks to the dedication of more than 55 trained volunteers. Volunteers not only provide essential support by helping clients file their taxes but also gain valuable professional experience and expand their networks.
Our team of volunteers supported over 2,500 clients."I am very grateful for the guidance and support of my supervisors and the AHC staff in general, which has made this journey both meaningful and rewarding," said Fatima Nazir. "I have gained practical tax knowledge, administrative and client service experience, honed my skills, and helped others, all while preparing myself for future job opportunities, got the hands-on experience of Canadian work environment."
For clients, the clinic offers access to crucial government benefits and credits, tax refunds, and Notices of Assessment, which are often required for services such as housing, childcare, or student aid.
“I am thrilled with help I have got from Action . The volunteers help me a lot to understand the tax system while filing my taxes. I got efficient appointment booking and am happy with the help.” said client Peter Tut.
The following is a breakdown of average refund amounts per return:
This initiative continues to make a meaningful impact in the community—improving financial well-being and supporting long-term settlement and stability for low-income residents.
“I am happy that Action provided a nice service and friendly and comfortable environment to file my tax. Thank you,” said another tax clinic client.
Our Community Initiative (CI) leaders shared their unique and informative perspective on community-building at our first Community of Practice (CoP) mini gathering of 2025, held on April 26, 2025.
The energy in the room was uplifting as 11 ethno-cultural CI groups came together for an afternoon of learning, dialogue, and community-building.
This quarterly event provided a meaningful platform for community leaders to connect, exchange experiences, and strengthen their collective capacity to serve their communities. Whether long-standing partners or new to the initiative, all participants contributed to a vibrant, collaborative atmosphere.
"For over three decades, Action for Healthy Communities has been dedicated to supporting grassroots groups and organizations," said Community Capacity Strategy Lead Javaid Hayat. "Many of the groups we have worked with have since grown into fully operational organizations, thanks to consistent capacity-building and mentorship support. This is the power of investing in communities."
Participating community groups included the following:
These groups—supported by AHC with or without a Seed Grant—have been actively involved with our initiatives since 2023. Each brings unique cultural insights, grassroots leadership, and a shared commitment to building more inclusive communities.
To foster peer-to-peer learning, participants were divided into two groups for focused roundtable discussions on Resource Mapping and Community Challenges. These discussions were facilitated by CI group members and guided by thoughtful prompts such as:
The conversations were dynamic and solution-focused, revealing both shared struggles and opportunities for collective action. Each group concluded with a representative summarizing their discussion, capturing insights on collaboration, sustainability, and the value of mutual support.
This event also marked an important learning moment for our new Seed Grant recipients. Bazibuhe and Pravatika from the Community Development Unit (CDU) led an engaging and interactive session on:
Their clear guidance and real-life examples helped new community leaders better understand the project cycle and build confidence as they move forward with their initiatives.
Participants left the gathering feeling energized, inspired, and better connected—ready to put ideas into action and continue strengthening their communities. Events like these reaffirm the importance of shared learning, mutual support, and the collective strength of diverse community leaders. A sincere thank you to everyone who made this event a success. We look forward to seeing the momentum grow—and can’t wait to reconnect at the next Community of Practice!
Written by Dickinsfield Amity House Executive Director Tracy Patience
Dickinsfield Amity House is a community support & family resource centre providing support services to the community and offer a wide range or programs and services to individuals and families.
The valuable partnership between Action for Healthy Communities and Amity House has existed for longer than I can even remember. Over a decade ago, we found that our community had a need for settlement services.
One of our core beliefs is that people should be able to access services in their community, so we decided to look for an agency with this expertise and ask if they could provide those services here. We knew there were a lot of colleagues providing this, but who would be the best fit for us?
It didn’t take us long to realize that Action for healthy Communities was the right partner for us. Their commitment to community, to providing responsive services in community, to changing quickly to meet emerging needs were all aligned with our values.
And, lucky for us, they agreed!
Nilton Romero was assigned to come to Amity House once/week to provide those specialized services. Nilton fit in right away, becoming one of us. His presence here is invaluable and has helped countless people navigate these complex systems. And he has helped us, too. Always willing to answer our questions, sneak in “just one more” person, and provide direction when we had trouble.
We are forever appreciative to AHC for this partnership-that is so natural it feels like family.
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