Our Programs
From youth employment and women's empowerment to newcomer settlement and international development — our programs are designed to uplift and integrate diverse communities.
Canada Summer Jobs Program
The Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) program provides quality work experiences for youth aged 15 to 30. Through MIVIC, participants are placed in community-serving roles that build professional skills, leadership capabilities, and workplace readiness. Positions run 6-16 weeks with full-time hours (minimum 30 hours/week). Not-for-profit placements may receive up to 100% wage subsidy. This program is funded by the Government of Canada through Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and is a key part of the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy.
Youth Employment & Skills Strategy (YESS)
The YESS program helps youth who face barriers to employment develop the skills and experience needed to find and maintain quality jobs. Services include employability workshops, resume writing support, interview preparation, paid work placements, mental health support, and mentorship. Priority is given to Indigenous youth, racialized youth, youth with disabilities, newcomers, and those in rural areas. The program provides a holistic approach to youth employment, addressing not just skills gaps but also social and personal barriers.
Youth Life Skills & Workforce Development
Inspired by the International Youth Foundation (IYF) model, this program provides comprehensive life skills and workforce development for young people aged 15-30. Participants receive training in financial literacy, communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and digital skills. The program includes career coaching, workplace simulations, leadership development through our Youth Ambassadors initiative, and community engagement projects. We create safe spaces where young people can build confidence, develop professional networks, and prepare for sustainable careers. This holistic approach addresses not just employment skills but also personal development and active citizenship.
Women's Empowerment & Leadership
Our Women's Empowerment program provides comprehensive support for women facing barriers to full community participation. Services include leadership development workshops, financial literacy training, gender-based violence (GBV) awareness and prevention, support for survivors, mentorship circles, and economic empowerment initiatives. We work closely with community partners to ensure women have access to resources, networks, and opportunities that help them thrive and lead in their communities.
Newcomer Settlement & Integration
Our Settlement & Integration program is designed specifically for newcomers, refugees, and new Canadians. We provide orientation to Canadian systems (healthcare, education, employment), language support, community connection events, cultural bridging workshops, assistance navigating government services, and volunteer placements that build Canadian work experience. The program helps newcomers build professional references, develop language skills in real-world settings, and establish lasting community connections in the Niagara region.
Seniors Active Living & Artisan Program
Our Seniors Active Living program is designed to keep older adults busy, engaged, and connected to their community. Participants learn jewelry making, beadwork, and other handcraft skills that provide both therapeutic benefits and income-generating opportunities. The program also includes social gatherings, storytelling circles, gentle exercise activities, digital literacy workshops, and intergenerational mentoring where seniors share their wisdom and skills with younger community members. We believe that seniors have invaluable experience and creativity to offer, and our programs create spaces where they can thrive, stay active, and continue contributing meaningfully to the community.
Community Volunteerism & Engagement
Our Community Volunteerism program creates meaningful volunteer opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds. Participants gain valuable experience, expand their networks, develop new skills, and contribute to building stronger communities. We partner with local organizations, community gardens, food banks, cultural events, and social services to match volunteers with opportunities that align with their interests and goals. This program is ideal for newcomers seeking Canadian experience, youth building their resumes, and seniors looking to stay active and engaged.
Eco-Agro Tourism & Sustainable Livelihoods
Drawing from the DFID Sustainable Livelihoods Framework and inspired by successful eco-agro tourism models in East Africa, this program integrates sustainable agriculture with community-based tourism. Participants learn organic farming techniques, permaculture design, environmental stewardship, and how to develop community tourism experiences that preserve cultural heritage. The program builds five key livelihood assets: human capital (skills and knowledge), natural capital (environmental resources), social capital (community networks), physical capital (infrastructure), and financial capital (income generation). Youth and community members develop entrepreneurial skills while creating sustainable income streams that benefit the entire community.
International Youth Internship Program
This program provides Canadian youth aged 19-30 with meaningful international internship opportunities in partnership with organizations working toward sustainable development goals. Interns gain hands-on experience in international development, cross-cultural competence, and professional skills that enhance their future career prospects. The program includes pre-departure training, in-field mentorship, and post-placement debriefing. Placements focus on community development, gender equality, education, and environmental sustainability in partner countries.