Submitted by Steven Lorenzo Baileys, Community Development Coordinator at ICA

Learning about ICA and the challenges and successes faced by newcomers is always of interest to many in our community. The Oak Bay Rotary Club is no exception!

On July 31, ICA hosted a unique Lunch and Learn session with members of the Oak Bay Rotary Club. The club is the newest member of the Community Partnership Network (CPN). Curious about the work of ICA and eager to learn more about the programs and services ICA offers, club president Joan Peggs reached out to ICA to see if a session could be hosted for its members. ICA gladly agreed to organize the session.

Working with the ICA Community Development and Employment Services team, ICA staff welcomed the more than 25 members of the club for a two-hour Lunch and Learn Session. Rotary Club members learned about ICA’s history and the programs and services offered to newcomers. Members also heard about recent statistics of immigration in our region and the employment programs offered for newcomers. After the learning portion of session concluded, the group then took a guided tour of ICA’s facilities and saw firsthand what we do. They also had the opportunity to meet our friendly ICA staff and clients. The event concluded with everyone enjoying a delicious Mediterranean lunch provided by Fig Deli.

During the lunchtime discussion, the members asked about how they could best support the work of ICA. A number of ideas were generated — for example, engaging in fundraising, volunteering as an employment mentor for newcomers, talking about the work of ICA in their communities and more.

Following the event, club president Joan Peggs shared her thoughts about value of the session: “Thank you so much for the most interesting, informative, and enjoyable gathering at ICA. For so many of the members, this visit was a revealing experience. Many had never heard of ICA, let alone visited the facility. I am hoping the club can work with ICA to assist with your many programs that assist and welcome newcomers.”

Thank you to the Oak Bay Rotary Club members and president Joan Peggs for the inspiration and interest in organizing this community engagement event. We look forward to building more connections!

Photos: Oak Bay Rotary Club Members at ICA Lunch and Learn Session