As 2025 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting with gratitude on a year of impact made possible only because of a community that chose to stand with newcomers and continues to show up in meaningful and impactful ways.
This quarter alone, CCIS had the privilege of gathering three different times with the people whose actions—often quiet, always consistent—help newcomers build belonging in Calgary and across Southern Alberta. At our annual Volunteer Recognition event, we celebrated milestone volunteers who have dedicated five to 40 years of service to CCIS and our clients. Earlier in October, we marked the 40th anniversary of Canada Connects—our longest-running volunteer-driven program that began in 1985 as the Host Program and has helped tens of thousands of newcomers find their footing in Canada through meaningful community connection. And at our Annual Employer Appreciation Event, focused on the future of Alberta business in a shifting economic landscape, we honoured employer partners from the Alberta business community who open their doors to newcomer talent and create opportunities for them to contribute their skills and talents to our economy. These are the people who make integration possible.
Against today’s backdrop, where anti-immigration sentiment can feel louder and more entrenched, these moments matter. They remind us that amid shifting national conversations about welcoming and supporting immigrants and refugees, there exists a steadfast core of Albertans who see the value newcomers bring and are willing to do something about it: volunteering time, sharing knowledge, offering friendship and creating pathways to meaningful employment. These individuals and businesses exemplify what it means to invest in the human potential of every person who arrives here seeking a better life, understanding that their prosperity is our collective prosperity.
This is the Alberta I know—one built by generations of immigrants and sustained by communities that understand we are stronger together. Our Canada Connects program began 40 years ago with a bold vision to support government-assisted refugees through meaningful community engagement. Four decades later, that vision endures not because of policy or funding alone, but because ordinary Albertans continue to show up, year after year, believing in the transformative power of welcome.
To every volunteer, every employer partner, every community member who has chosen, and continues to choose, compassion over fear and inclusion over division: thank you. Your work matters more than you may ever fully know. Your quiet actions of solidarity are changing individual lives and, ultimately, shaping our collective future.
As we step into a new year, may we carry forward this spirit of unwavering commitment to building the Alberta and the Canada we want to live in: inclusive, prosperous and genuinely welcoming to all who choose to call this place home. Wishing you a merry Christmas and happy new year!
With deep gratitude,
Gordana Radan
Chief Executive Officer
Calgary Catholic Immigration Society
