Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia

The Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia (ISSofBC) is a Canadian nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to supporting immigrants and refugees settling in British Columbia. Established over 50 years ago, the society has partnered with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the provincial government to provide comprehensive programs aimed at newcomer integration, language acquisition, employment support, and community inclusion.

History and Mission

Since its inception, ISSofBC has focused on helping immigrants and refugees successfully integrate into Canadian society by offering services that ease settlement challenges. Its mission is to welcome newcomers and provide them with the tools and resources necessary for socio-economic participation and community belonging. The society operates as a client-centered organization emphasizing accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and empowerment.

Services and Programs

ISSofBC delivers a wide range of free services tailored to meet the diverse needs of immigrants and refugees living in British Columbia:

• Settlement Services: Orientation and support programs to help newcomers understand Canadian society, their rights and responsibilities, and available resources.

• Language Training: English language classes designed to improve communication skills essential for daily life and employment.

• Employment and Career Services: Assistance for skilled immigrants and refugees to find meaningful work, including career counseling, job search workshops, and connections to potential employers.

• Community Integration: Peer mentorship, support groups, and social activities aimed at building networks and fostering belonging.

• Specialized Support: Programs addressing the unique needs of vulnerable groups, including refugee claimants, temporary workers, and displaced Ukrainians.

These services are available through multiple offices across British Columbia, including locations in Vancouver, Surrey, Langley, Coquitlam, Burnaby, Richmond, Maple Ridge, Prince George, and Squamish[1][2][3][5].

Advocacy and Community Engagement

ISSofBC collaborates with over 100 organizations, businesses, and charities at the national level to advocate for an immigration system that benefits all Canadians. The society has been active in public campaigns calling on federal parties to renew and improve immigration policies that support inclusive growth and social cohesion[1].

Organizational Structure

As a registered charitable society (Business Registration Number: 130724222RR0001), ISSofBC operates independently of the government but works closely with government agencies to align its programs with public settlement strategies. It maintains a network of service delivery sites throughout British Columbia to ensure accessibility for newcomers.

Impact and Reach

Over the decades, ISSofBC has assisted tens of thousands of immigrants and refugees in their journey to adapt and thrive in British Columbia. Its client-centered approach and comprehensive service model make it a cornerstone institution within the province’s newcomer support ecosystem.

This article reflects the information current as of April 2025.

[1] https://issbc.org [2] https://ccrweb.ca/en/org/immigrant-services-society-bc-0 [3] https://bc.211.ca/agency-details/immigrant-services-society-of-bc-issofbc-9487795/ [4] https://www.welcomebc.ca/start-your-life-in-b-c/settlement-services [5] https://find.healthlinkbc.ca/ResourceView2.aspx?org=53965&agencynum=17688809