Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization

03/25/2026

Since 1985, Algonquin College's Public Relations program has raised nearly $600,000 with student-led fundraising campaigns.

This term, the class of 2027 has launched the ACPR Charity Campaign Culture2Culture, raising funds and awareness for Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISCO).
OCISO supports immigrants and refugees settling in Ottawa through programs focused
on integration, accessibility, and community connection

Fundraising events run from Friday, March 27, to Sunday, April 12.

To learn more about the campaign and events, drop by Student Commons on Wednesday, March 25, from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., or visit: acprcampaign.com.

03/25/2026

Today, OCISO was pleased to attend the launch of the Culture2Culture campaign, led by Algonquin College Public Relations (ACPR) Students!

This inspiring initiative brings together community, creativity, and culture — all in support of OCISO and newcomers in Ottawa. A big thank you to the students, faculty, and everyone involved for the energy and passion you’ve put into this campaign.

Over the next few weeks, a series of exciting fundraising events will take place across the city — from comedy nights and trivia to cultural showcases and more.

🔗 Learn more and explore upcoming events: https://acprcampaign.com/events-1

We encourage you to join an event, bring a friend, and share with your networks. Every bit of support helps make a meaningful difference in the lives of newcomers in our community.

ACPR Charity Campaign Algonquin College

03/20/2026

🧘‍♀️ Women’s Yoga & Wellness Circle (Free 4-Week Series)
Take some time for yourself this spring. Join us for a gentle yoga practice and wellness conversation in a supportive space for women.
🗓 Thursdays | March 26 – April 16
⏰ 3:00 – 4:30 PM
📍 OCISO – 1800 Bank St, 2nd Floor (Gym)
Each 1.5-hour session includes yoga, guided conversation, and time to relax and connect with others.
✨ No yoga experience required.
We will provide yoga mats, yoga blocks, refreshments, and water.
Important:
• For OCISO clients only
• Max 15 participants
• Registration required
• Participants are expected to commit to all four sessions
Led by yoga teacher Lang Maria Liu and clinical supervisor Ana Mercedes Guerra, MSW, RSW.
📩 Register to reserve your spot: Women’s Yoga & Wellness Circle – Registration Form – Fill out form

03/20/2026

As we mark Nowruz, a time of renewal and new beginnings, we also recognize that this year may feel difficult for many.

To those affected by conflict and uncertainty, we are with you. May this new year bring peace, safety, and hope for brighter days ahead. 🌱

03/20/2026

Eid Mubarak to all celebrating! May your day be filled with love, peace, and happiness as you gather with loved ones.

03/08/2026

Happy International Women’s Day!
Today, we celebrate the women around us for their strength, resilience, and contributions. We also honour the feminist heroes who have fought — and continue to fight — for equality and equity for all. Wishing you a wonderful day!

03/07/2026

On Sunday, March 8, the clocks will move forward by one hour. This is a gentle reminder to adjust your clocks if they are not automatic.

We hope you enjoy the longer, brighter days ahead!

03/03/2026

📣 Office Relocation Notice

We are excited to share that effective April 1, 2026, our office will be relocating to 275 Bay Street (previously 945 Wellington Street West). New Address, Same Great Service!

Please note that all other client service locations remain unchanged, and our programs will continue to operate as usual without interruption.

We look forward to welcoming you to our new space!

02/18/2026

As Ramadan begins, we wish peace and blessings to all who observe this holy month.
May your days be filled with reflection, gratitude, and compassion.

02/17/2026

Happy Lunar New Year! 🧧 Wishing everyone celebrating joy, health, and prosperity in the Year of the Horse.
May this new beginning bring peace and harmony to you and your loved ones.

02/16/2026

Happy Family Day! Today we celebrate the love, care, and connection that families bring to our lives — in all their forms.
Please note that OCISO offices are closed today.
Wishing everyone a warm and restful day with loved ones.

02/11/2026

Now Accepting Clients – Green Buildings and Retrofits - Free Training Program!

Do you know that Canada’s transition to a net-zero economy could create over 560,000 clean economy jobs by 2050, with green building and retrofits playing a major role. (Source: Clean Energy Canada)

If you have a background in sustainable construction or any related field and are looking to launch a career or upskill in the green jobs sector, this is your opportunity.

The Community Economic Development (CED) program at OCISO is accepting new clients in the Intercultural Pan-Canadian Green Buildings and Retrofits Training Project, a 100% funded opportunity to gain in-demand skills and hands-on experience in the growing green building industry.

What the program offers:
- 5-week self-paced online training
- Micro-credential training certificate in Green Buildings and Retrofits
- Learn: Sustainable building practices, energy analysis, retrofit systems & more
- 4-week practicum or employment placement
- Wrap-around supports: Job search help, childcare, transportation, and more

Program runs on a rolling first-come, first-served basis.

Eligibility:
- Professional background in sustainable construction or any related field
- Legally entitled to work in Canada
- Canadian Citizen, PR, or Refugee status
- Self-identify as: Newcomer, 2SLGBTQI+, Indigenous, Woman, Racialized, or Person with disabilities

For more information, please contact us at: gbrtraining@ociso.org

Register now:

Join the fully funded 9-week Green Building & Retrofit Training Project by PICS. Open to equity-seeking groups across Canada. Includes online certification + job placement. Rolling intakes available!