Abstract
The “Welcoming Claresholm” Settlement, Integration, and Language Project (June 2020 - June 2021) was a timely and effective initiative, supporting the residents of Claresholm, Alberta to raise their awareness of the benefits of immigration and to their role in being a welcoming community. The project engaged service providers, public servants,
immigrant and non-immigrant community members, faith groups, educators, and business-owners – with a growing number of committed partners, volunteers, and community champions. Key project outputs are a Welcoming Claresholm Committee, a Welcoming Claresholm website, a series of diversity trainings, and several communitywide
events and information sessions. As the project is very early in its planning and
implementation, there is consensus that, while impactful, long-term efforts are necessary to create a truly welcoming community that can support the long-term retention of newcomers through localized, evidence-informed strategies. As health restrictions lift there will be increased opportunities to host larger scale events and training sessions and to foster relationships through in-person meetings, ultimately enhancing the pace
of outreach efforts. Under the guidance of the Calgary and Foothills Catholic
Immigration Society (CCIS & FCIS), he first year of the project has set a strong foundation and generated notable momentum for ongoing work.
