Our organization's mission is to deliver accessible, inclusive, low-barrier programs for immigrant and refugee women and their children that create a sense of belonging, meaningful participation, and leadership. We assist our program participants to break through language barriers, access information, meet material needs, and overcome social isolation.

Through our Adopt to Life in Canada program, which supports the early years' development of immigrant and newcomer children, we are building a strong foundation for success, especially in their transition to kindergarten.

We would like to work with students to assist in this SEY2K project, developing and delivering the summer pre-kindergarten program alongside our South Vancouver Early Years Table Partners.

This will involve several steps for the students, including:

• Familiarizing themselves with our organization’s goals and missions
• Understanding the early years children's development and the access barriers for immigrant and newcomer children and families
• Understanding the BC Ministry of Education Early Years Framework
• Creating age-appropriate early years materials using a trauma-informed approach, in line with the BC Early Years Framework
• Connecting with immigrant and newcomer families and providing resources to families
• Building connections with Early Years Service Providers.

Bonus steps in the process would also include:

• Assisting in administration tasks, including recruitment and registration.

By the end of the project, students should demonstrate:

• Familiarity with our goals and mission
• Understand the early years child development and the BC Early Years Framework
• Familiar with the resources and support available for immigrant and newcomer families with young children in South Vancouver area.
• Carry out Early Years activities using a Trauma Informed Approach

Bonus steps would include:

• Familiar with admin tools including Google Drive, Database, Canvas.

Students will connect directly with us for mentorship throughout the project. We will be able to provide answers to questions such as:

• Our organization’s mission and goals
• The BC Early Years Framework
• Trauma-informed approach to working with immigrant and newcomer children and their families.
• Input on choices, problems, or anything else the students might encounter.