Social Connections
Social connections are a vital part of making Saskatoon feel like home. Global Gathering Place integrates opportunities for social connections into many of our programs and services, including the following:
BrightStart! Our BrightStart! program engages mothers with young children. Through structured play, crafts, songs and presentations, mothers develop support networks and improve parenting and language skills. Children learn how to follow instructions, take turns, share, and are more prepared for school in Canada.
Coffee & Conversation: Every Thursday afternoon from 1-3pm, Coffee & Conversation brings volunteers and newcomers together for casual discussions around settlement. Clients are able to meet other newcomers, network with volunteers, practice language skills, plus learn more about life in Saskatoon as well as Canadian culture.
Family, Fun & Fit: Through sporting activities, field trips, and cultural events, Family, Fun and Fit introduces participants to a new recreational activity every weekend. The hope is that once clients become familiar with the facilities, events, and services available, they access them independently.
GGP Meet Up: Join with other young adults in their 20s and 30s at fun and exciting social events around the city! The idea is to create opportunities for young people to meet up, get to know others like themselves, and experience more of city life through active engagement with the city’s arts and cultural activities. The initial GGP Meet will explore the annual outdoor arts event Nuit Blanche.
“Learn to” Sporting Program: The program provides instruction, equipment, and promotes awareness of a popular sport enjoyed by people in Saskatoon. This year, GGP has introduced canoeing and curling to participants. Past sessions introduced tennis and skating.
Weaving Words: In partnership with the Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild, clients work with a professional writer to develop their creative writing, editing, and storytelling skills. Their work is shared at a reading celebration and in a published anthology. To apply, please fill out and return the Weaving Words Application.
WELL – Women Exchanging Life Lessons: Women participate in a variety of weekly skills building, social, and informative sessions with an emphasis on health. Professionals from the community are brought in to speak on their area of expertise on topics such as oral hygiene, mental health, cancer prevention, healthy relationships, etc.