The City of Guelph says they welcome approximately 700 newcomers every year. These people have become an integral part of the local economy, social, and cultural life, bringing with them new skills, talents, and friendships. There are multiple recognizable services in the community that aim to help the transition of immigrants and newcomers into their new lives, but many aren’t aware of the organizations behind the scenes.
“We are considered an indirect service provider because we don't work directly with immigrants but work for the organizations that do,” says Leen Al-Habash, project manager at Guelph Wellington Local Immigration Partnership (GWLIP), “We focus on the local priorities and local collaboration and engagement – our role is to bring together all of the community partners who affect immigrants’ lives one way or another.”
The GWLIP, funded by the Federal government of Canada, makes sure everyone is working together so the settlement process is quick and smooth, says Al-Habash. They work with community partners to address any barriers newcomers from outside and within Canada face – and make sure they feel welcome in the community.
“Our Leadership Council consists of about 30 community partners and they meet five to six times a year to share and discuss local priorities and share information. That’s where the magic happens,” says Al-Habash, “We do a lot of research projects to find out what issues are faced, what needs to be addressed, and what systemic issues need to be fixed. We have campaigns and raise awareness to add the value of newcomers and what they bring to the community - and address stereotyping that might not be correct.”
From September 9-18th, GWLIP will be facilitating a welcome event within the Guelph Wellington community. GWLIP started looking into celebrating the Welcoming Week in 2021 but the pandemic prevented the organization from conducting in-person events. “This year is the first time GWLIP will facilitate this celebration on a larger scale. The initiative encourages individuals and communities to spread the message of inclusion, belonging and welcoming newcomers.”
The event, says Al-Habash, is “more about inspiring people to think about what we can do for all to ensure that everyone, including newcomers and immigrants, feels welcome and is thriving in the community. We want to encourage people to do small gestures that will help newcomers feel welcome, whether they're coming internationally or not.”
Various activities planned during the welcome week are expected to bring together new and long-term residents, celebrate diversity and connect and showcase how welcoming the community of Guelph is. Events can be as small as a 30-minute info session helping people to navigate their way around or an elaborate whole-day occasion. “It doesn't matter, big or small, it’s just the notion of thinking about newcomers.
A calendar of events is available on the GWLIP website. “There are so many small things you can do. A smile is the same in all languages, and a wave hello goes a long way. All small things contribute to the welcoming environment we have. I want to thank every community partner contributing to this event. The week wouldn't be possible without the wider support we’ve received.”