Programs that grow with our communities.
From settlement services to youth leadership, skills development, and community capacity building—our programs are designed with and for equity-deserving communities to create lasting impact.
Empowering Leadership in Youth Through Community Action (ELYCA)
Want better for your community? You have the power to make an impact! Do you find yourself wishing for more social connection, greater awareness of your community’s history and challenges, or real policy change? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to wait. Turn your ideas into action by launching a Youth-Led Community Project through ELYCA! […]
Healthy Children
Looking for fun, healthy, and educational after-school activities for your child? AHC’s Children’s Program offers a safe, inclusive, and enriching after-school experience for children aged 6–12 in Edmonton. AHC’s Children Empowerment Program creates a nurturing space where kids can build confidence, explore new skills, and grow into their full potential. We believe that strong, joyful […]
Parents & Caregivers Support
Supporting Families: Tools for Raising Healthy, Confident Children At AHC, we believe strong families are the foundation of thriving, resilient communities. Our family-centered programming offers practical tools, resources, and workshops designed to support parents and caregivers in nurturing their children’s full potential. Promoting Positive Parenting Empowering parents with effective, culturally responsive strategies to nurture, guide, […]
Youth Sports & Recreation activities
Let’s Move, Grow, and Connect Through Sport AHC’s youth sports and recreation programs offer inclusive, welcoming spaces where young people can explore movement, build confidence, and foster friendships—regardless of experience or skill level. Whether trying a new sport or refining existing abilities, participants are supported by encouraging coaches and peers in a fun, growth-oriented environment […]
Youth Talk – Learn English
Youth Talk: English for Academic and Job Success Take your English—and your future—to the next level. Youth Talk is more than just language learning. It’s a space where newcomer youth build confidence, communication skills, and meaningful connections to thrive in school, work, and life. Whether you're preparing for academic success or your first job, this […]
Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS)
Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) Funded by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) is a program operated by settlement agencies throughout Canada in partnership with school divisions. SWIS is a program for immigrant and refugee children in K-12 schools. Action for Healthy Communities is an authorized SWIS provider. SWIS is […]
Employment Services
Employment Services In our Small Centres, we are able to provide limited employment services for newcomers looking for work outside of Edmonton. Employment services in Small Centres include: Information about local employers Information about Canadian workplace culture and expectations Information about Canadian workplace rights and labour protections Support for newcomers in rural Alberta experiencing abuse […]
Children and Youth
Children and Youth Programming Our rural offices are pleased to offer free programming for newcomer (immigrant and refugee) children and youth. We have weekend and school break activities, and host day camps during the summer holidays. In each community, the program offers children and youth the chance to try new things, explore nature, and learn […]
Health & Wellness Support
AHC offers a range of culturally responsive and client-centered mental health and wellness services tailored to the needs of diverse individuals and communities, particularly newcomers, immigrants, and vulnerable populations in Edmonton. If you are a client from outside of Edmonton (rural Alberta), listed services are still available. However, these services are only available online. The […]
Youth Ready to Work
Youth Life and Job Skills Program The Youth Life and Job Skills Program supports equity-deserving youth in building the skills, confidence, and knowledge needed to navigate adulthood and enter the workforce with purpose. Through culturally responsive and youth-centered programming, participants explore career pathways, develop job readiness, and take meaningful steps toward their personal and professional […]
Children, Youth and Family Empowerment
Looking for Programs for Children and Youth? The AHC Children, Youth, and Family Empowerment Program supports the holistic development of children and youth by offering resources, skills, and meaningful connections that help them thrive. Our programs strengthen resilience, build confidence, and create nurturing environments—while also supporting parents and caregivers. We work alongside underserved children and […]
Entrepreneurship Supports Program
The Entrepreneurship Support Program (ESP) at Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) empowers aspiring and established entrepreneurs to turn ideas into sustainable businesses. Through tailored workshops, one-on-one mentorship, and access to essential resources, the program fosters innovation, resilience, and inclusive economic growth across our communities. Since 2015, AHC’s ESP has supported over 780 entrepreneurs, helping them […]
Employment Supports
SWIPE (Employment Program) Strategic Workforce Integration Program Action for Healthy Communities (AHC)’s Employment Support Program empowers newcomers and job seekers across Alberta to achieve meaningful and sustainable employment. Through personalized guidance, skills development, and employer engagement, we help individuals strengthen their employability and confidently navigate the labour market. By collaborating with employers, service providers, and […]
Information for Employers
Benefits of Being an Employer Partner AHC provides customized, no-cost supports to help employers connect with qualified candidates who are ready to contribute to Alberta’s evolving workforce. Job Posting Distribution Recruitment Events Customized Work Exposure Courses Train-the-Trainer Opportunities By partnering with AHC, you gain access to a rich talent pool, reduce recruitment costs, and play […]
Community Connections
The AHC Community Connection Program helps newcomers build meaningful relationships and feel at home in their new communities. Through connections with local cultural groups, community events, volunteer opportunities, and supportive networks, participants expand their social circles and strengthen their sense of belonging. By fostering mentorship, cultural exchange, and active community engagement, the program reduces isolation […]
Referrals Services
At AHC, referrals are an essential part of our settlement services, ensuring newcomers across Alberta can access the right supports at the right time. Through personalized referrals, our team connects clients with specialized programs and community resources — including language training, employment supports, housing assistance, healthcare, and legal aid. This collaborative approach helps minimize barriers, […]
One on One & Family Support
AHC’s trained Settlement Team provides individualized and family-based support through a personalized, client-centered approach. In these sessions, newcomers meet directly with a Settlement Support Worker or Case Manager to explore their unique needs, goals, and challenges. This focused engagement allows for a deeper understanding of each client’s circumstances and helps identify the most effective pathways […]
Group Information Sessions
Group Service Support is a collaborative and inclusive approach that brings together individuals with shared experiences, needs, or goals in a supportive group setting. Within AHC’s settlement services, these sessions provide newcomers with opportunities to connect, learn, and grow together — fostering peer support, cultural exchange, and collective problem-solving. Participants gain valuable insights, strengthen their […]
Anti Racism and Inclusion
At AHC Alberta, we are committed to addressing racism and building a society rooted in dignity, respect, and inclusion. Through education, dialogue, and community-driven action, we equip individuals and communities to challenge racial injustice and advance equity. Our work includes: How We Champion Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Our Commitment in Action At AHC, we take […]
Settlement & Integration
Settlement and Integration Program Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) provides comprehensive, culturally responsive support to help newcomers and immigrants navigate the settlement process and build meaningful lives in Canada. Our services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals at different stages of their journey, ensuring equitable access to information, resources, and community connections. […]
Rural Small Centres
Every year, Canada welcomes more than 250,000 new arrivals from all over the world. Approximately 45,000 of these new immigrants come to Alberta each year, and while most will choose to live in our province's largest cities (Edmonton and Calgary), many more also choose to live in smaller communities. In our Rural Small Centres program, […]
Community Resource Hub
The AHC Community Resource Hub is a free, drop-in space that provides community members with practical tools, technology, and information to support their settlement, learning, and employment goals. Open to everyone, the Hub encourages self-reliance and connection by offering accessible, inclusive resources that help individuals take confident steps toward personal and professional growth. Community Resource […]
Monitoring and Evaluation
Evaluation, Knowledge Mobilization, and Continuous Improvement As the third strategic pillar of the Community Development Unit (CDU), AHC’s Evaluation, Knowledge Mobilization, and Continuous Improvement strategy strengthens our commitment to accountability, learning, and adaptive growth. This framework helps us measure impact, track progress, and ensure that our programs and practices respond effectively to community needs. It […]
Training and Development
As the second core pillar of the Community Development Unit (CDU), AHC’s Training and Development strategy strengthens our internal and community-facing capacity to integrate inclusive, community-driven approaches across all programs. This work supports AHC’s strategic direction while aligning with the goals of individual programs and the broader aim of working collaboratively with communities to advance […]
Community Capacity Building
Community Capacity Building: Driving Community-Led Change As a first and a core strategic pillar of our Community Development Unit (CDU), Community Capacity Building is central to AHC’s mission and vision. Grounded in the principles of asset-based community development, this work reflects our commitment to community-led growth, adaptability, and meeting evolving needs with sustainable, long-term solutions. […]
Strategic Community Capacity Building
At Action for Healthy Communities (AHC), our mission is to strengthen communities through inclusive development and capacity building—fostering shared leadership, empowerment, and long-term wellbeing. Guided by our Community Development Model and grounded in Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) principles, we work alongside equity-deserving communities to identify and grow their strengths, assets, and leadership. This approach promotes […]
Adult Literacy & Skills Development
The AHC Adult Literacy and Skills Development (ALSD) Program supports adults in building essential literacy, life, and employability skills to achieve their personal and professional goals. Through accessible learning opportunities and tailored courses, participants gain the tools they need to thrive in daily life and contribute meaningfully to their communities. At AHC, we view literacy […]
