EDO Friends of British Columbia

New Immigrants and Refugees Settlement and Integration Programs

Canada takes pride in its rich tapestry of cultural diversity, and Edo Friends of British Columbia Association plays a crucial role in facilitating the settlement and integration of new immigrants into Canadian society.

Serving as an invaluable resource, our association offers a wide range of services aimed at supporting newcomers as they navigate the complexities of resettlement. From providing employment assistance to offering cultural orientation and community outreach programs, we strive to provide a holistic support system that fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment among immigrants.

Through our efforts to promote cross-cultural understanding, facilitate social connections, and advocate for the rights and needs of newcomers, we contribute significantly to Canada's reputation as a welcoming and inclusive nation. With our dedication and commitment, we do not only assist immigrants in adapting to their new home but also play a vital role in enriching the fabric of Canadian society as a whole.

our activities

Popular Activities

Employment Services

We work with new immigrants and refugees in groups and offer one on one training to increase their chances of being successful in the workplace. We provide counseling, job training, labor market information, referrals and other support services. This is done daily in our office/activities center by trained employment counselors and office staff members.

Computer Training Services

We provide basic computer and internet training for new immigrants and refugees in an environment that is conducive for those using the computers for the first time. This is done at our office weekly.

Settlement and Integration Services

We assist Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley new immigrants and refugees in finding accommodation, doctors, Schools for children, used furniture, banking services, library services, shopping centers and everyday transportation needs. This is done through the help of our trained staff members and volunteers who meet with our immigrant community members to do assessment of their individual needs.

Interpretation and Translation Services

Our volunteers provide interpretation and translation services to Immigrants & Refugees around the Lower Mainland and the Fraser Valley. We do this in appointments, filling out forms, In-person’s and phone meetings etc.

Youth Programs

We organize events for new immigrants and refugees’ youths in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley. This includes Homework Club, Art Club, Peers Support group with trained Mentors and teachers.

Cultural Program

Organizing a yearly Musical and Cultural Event that benefit New Immigrants, Refugees and Canadian Society at Large. This is done with the participation of all the New Immigrants in our programs and others that have gone through our programs. All immigrants show case their talent in this event and also an opportunity for us to showcase Canadian Aboriginal Culture, Arts, and Folk Dance. Once a week, we organize story telling forum for our immigrant community in our office.

Community Outreach Programs

These programs help new immigrant and refugee families to become more independent by organizing seminars and providing guidance, and referrals thereby reducing the barriers caused by language, education, and cultural differences. We organize 2 weekly seminars in our office in Surrey on different topics with the help of our volunteer professionals.

Children Programs

We bring new immigrant and refugee children and families together to have fun, make friends, learn new parenting skills, share experiences, and for some to recover from trauma they have experienced in refugee camps. This is done once a week.

For information regarding BC programs, please visit:

BC Government Settlement and Integration Programs and Services