Author
Mojoyin Adigun
Philanthropy Lead
Big Thanks to Our Donors! Your incredible support has propelled our Canoo program, bridging the gaps between newcomers and broader Canadian communities. With you as generous contributors, Canoo has enabled partners like the Toronto Zoo and the TELUS Spark Science Centre in Calgary to provide transformative experiences for thousands of newcomers. Let’s celebrate and give a big thank you to these star partners —the Toronto Zoo and TELUS Spark.
Strengthening Newcomer Connections
Over the past years, the Toronto Zoo and TELUS Spark have played a pivotal role in welcoming newcomers, advancing our mission to combat isolation and facilitate smoother integration. In 2023 alone, the Toronto Zoo welcomed over 27,000 newcomer adults and 22,000 children.
Family Fun Front and Center
The significant attendance of newcomer families illustrates how meaningful these visits are. Experiencing these exciting places isn’t just enjoyable—it’s essential in helping families adjust to a new place. These partners grant Canoo access for kids to laugh, run, and play. Creating inviting environments makes space for families to bond and build memories. Transforming a new place into a home where each family member feels connected to Canada.
Cheers to Our Partners
A big round of applause for the Toronto Zoo and the TELUS Spark Science Centre! Not only are they committed to making a difference, but they’ve also earned some well-deserved accolades—2023 Canoo Partner of the Year for the Toronto Zoo and the 2023 Kids’ Choice Award for TELUS Spark Science Centre.
Let’s Keep This Going
We’re not stopping here! Your continued support is crucial as we aim to bring even more enriching experiences to newcomers. The success stories of the Toronto Zoo and TELUS Spark are just the beginning. By maintaining your support, you help ensure that every newcomer, especially children, can create memories and thrive in their new Canadian home.
Thanks for Being Our Champions! Your belief in our mission fuels our efforts.
Author
Mojoyin Adigun
Philanthropy Lead
Here’s How Your Donations Are Helping!
We’re delighted to share exciting updates about the Canoo program, which have been made possible by your generous support. For the first time in Canoo’s 12-year history, we have transformed our 1-year membership for newcomers into a multi-year program. This evolution includes not only cultural experiences but also access to recreation, professional sports, concerts, educational opportunities, and travel. Our aim is to enhance newcomers’ experience by offering a broader range of activities and extending access through progressive discounts.
Canoo is Adapting to Newcomer Needs
Recognizing that many newcomers spend their first year settling into their new environment, we have extended the duration of the Canoo pass. This change ensures that once newcomers are ready, they have ample opportunities to enjoy and experience the best of Canada.
Canoo’s Making Milestones
Enhanced Membership Benefits
Beyond the initial year of free access to Canoo’s partner destinations, we now offer extended benefits with hefty discounts through a multi-year membership. This expansion supports the longer-term integration of newcomers, allowing them to explore and connect with Canadian society at their own pace and in more diverse settings.
Direct Support to Cultural Partners
Our commitment to Canada’s cultural sector remains strong. By introducing new audiences to our cultural partners, we help them achieve their strategic goals of gaining new patrons and increasing accessibility. This support is crucial for sustaining cultural landmarks that play a vital role in Canadian heritage and the integration of newcomers.
Recognition as Equity Partners
Organizations participating in our new multi-year membership model gain ESG (environmental, social, and governance) recognition as Canoo Newcomer Equity Partners. This affirms their role in fostering newcomers’ sense of belonging within Canadian society.
Partner Engagement and Impact
We are thrilled to announce that 120 partners have embraced the new multi-year model. Together, we are engaging over 400,000 permanent residents and new Canadian citizens, with a goal of welcoming 1,000,000 by 2026. Your support has been crucial in these efforts, ensuring that newcomers feel respected, valued, and truly at home
Your ongoing support fuels these transformative initiatives, making a lasting impact on the lives of newcomers. Thank you for your commitment and belief in our mission.
Version française.
Author
Mojoyin Adigun
Philanthropy Lead
At the heart of every community are the people, and at the heart of every kind gesture, the same principle exists: People Matter. The Institute for Canadian Citizenship (ICC) is proud to profile Debi Brown, a long-time donor to ICC, whose work and generosity are guided by this powerful principle.
Debi Brown: Advocate for Inclusivity and Connection
As the CEO and Founder of Clarity Management Group and the author of It’s All in the Delivery, Debi Brown has dedicated her career to enhancing how individuals and organizations succeed by prioritizing human connections. Her philosophy perfectly mirrors the mission of ICC, making her not only a supporter, but a true embodiment of what we stand for.
“ICC is the brand that makes people feel welcome.”
– Debi Brown
Debi emphasizes how essential it is to make newcomers feel at home as soon as they arrive. Her belief in the importance of making people feel valued and included has fueled her ongoing support for ICC.
Support Driven by Belief
Debi’s commitment to ICC is a testament to her belief in the power of community. When reflecting on her decision to continue her contributions, she shares, “Every year we reassess and consider where we want to redirect our support, but at the core, I believe in what ICC is doing. The idea of being a welcoming band for anyone new to Canada aligns with my deep-seated belief that people matter.”
Debi’s support is shaped by three key principles:
Paying it Forward: Fostering a culture of generosity and empathy where people help one another creates positive change in the lives of others. “We are blessed with what we do, and I love what I do. If we can pay it forward, that makes me happy,” Debi states.
Belief in the Mission: The ICC’s dedication to newcomers in Canada resonates deeply within the hearts of many. This commitment leads to a supportive environment where newcomers can find solace as they navigate their journey in a new country.
Legacy and Commitment: Her contributions also serve as a legacy for her children and grandchildren, ensuring their family’s values continue to impact future generations.
The Joy of Impact
A recent Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony captured Debi’s attention. She saw a photo of a little girl waving a Canadian flag at the event. “It just really made my day to see what the donation contributes to,” she remarks, highlighting the joy of seeing direct outcomes from her support in ICC events and programming.
Inspire Change with Us
Debi’s story is a vivid illustration of how individual commitment can create waves of change for newcomers to Canada. Her philosophy that people matter drives us all at ICC to push forward in our efforts to make Canada the most welcoming place for newcomers.
We are grateful to Debi for her profound impact and unwavering support.