Saturday, October 4
Burnaby Cactus and Succulent Society plant sale, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Royal Square Mall, Eighth Avenue and McBride Boulevard. Info: Pat at 604-921-7042.
Tuesday, October 7
Getting from no to yes, creating strong decisions with youth. Learn how to coach youth to make strong decisions at a special parenting workshop at the New Westminster Public Library, 7 p.m. As space is limited, register at 604-527-4667 or [email protected]. This workshop is designed to help parents or anyone involved with youth understand the dynamic process of strong decision-making using arguments as a method for truth finding. Issues such as health, computer use, employment and risk reduction will be explored. Participants will also learn how to help develop in youth the concepts of open mindedness, intellectual maturity and thoughtfulness. Author, producer and mentor David Rossi teaches common sense and critical thinking to youth, parents and professionals.
Royal Columbian Hospital auxiliary, general meeting, 1 p.m., Neil Russell room of Royal Columbian Hospital, third floor of Columbia tower, 330 East Columbia St. Info: Marlene at 604-521-0551.
Wednesday, October 8
Travel show at the library, 7:30 p.m., New Westminster Public Library, 716 Sixth Ave. The new season begins with a trip to Muslim Spain. Rick Carswell will show photographs of some of the major remaining medieval structures in Cordoba and Granada, dating from when Spain was called Al-Andalus and was primarily Muslim. The travel shows are co-sponsored by the library and the University Women's Club of New Westminster. The library is wheelchair accessible.
Tuesday, October 9
Canada Pension Plan and Old Age Security information session, giving an overview of the programs, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. New Westminster Public Library, 716 Sixth Ave. Information will include eligibility requirements, types of benefits available and benefits for low-income seniors. A question and answer period will follow. The information sessions are co-sponsored by New Westminster Public Library and Services Canada. For more information and to register, phone New Westminster Public Library at 604-527-4667. The library is wheelchair accessible.
Friday, October 10
Employment workshop, interview skills and self marketing. Learn what you need to get a job in a series of employment workshops being held at the library on Fridays from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information and to register, phone Faustin at MOSAIC at 604-438-8214 ext. 112 or email [email protected] or register at the library at 604-527-4667. The series is co-sponsored by the New Westminster Public Library and MOSAIC's settlement program. The main library is at 716 Sixth Ave., www.nwpl.ca or 604-527-4660.
Saturday, October 11
Citizenship and permanent resident card renewal, an overview of citizenship and permanent resident application forms, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., New Westminster Public Library, 716 Sixth Ave. if you have a permanent resident card or landed immigrant documents, please bring them to the program. The presentation will be conducted in English, with translation available in French, Chichewa, Nyanja, Lingala and Swahili. For more information and to register phone the library at 604-527-4667 or SUCCESS at 604-430-1899 ext. 110. The class is co-sponsored by New Westminster Public Library and SUCCESS.
Sunday, October 12
Pop-Up Library project, free book-sharing and art-making event for all ages., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., second floor of River Market, 810 Quayside Dr. We have 1,000 books for children, teens and adults - so come test our our 'have a book, leave a book, need a book, take a book' philosophy! You are welcome to drop off books, or adopt some of ours. More information is at www.facebook.com/popuplibraryproject.
Tuesday, October 14
The Wilderness Woman returns to New Westminster Public Library. Chris Czajkowski, who has spent most of her adult life pursuing a solitary life in B.C.'s wilderness, returns to the library at 8 p.m., bringing more of her stories about her wilderness life. As space is limited, register at 604-0527-4667 or [email protected]. Known as the Wilderness Woman, Czajkowski has just published her 11th book about her experiences, And the River Still Sings. During the evening at the library, she will show slides and talk about her life. She'll also be available to sign copies of her books. The New Westminster Public Library is at 716 Sixth Ave., www.nwpl.ca or 604-527-4660.
Friday, October 17
Employment workshop, job search strategies and networking. Learn what you need to get a job in a series of employment workshops being held at the library on Fridays from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information and to register, phone Faustin at MOSAIC at 604-438-8214 ext. 112 or email [email protected] or register at the library at 604-527-4667. The series is co-sponsored by the New Westminster Public Library and MOSAIC's settlement program. The main library is at 716 Sixth Ave., www.nwpl.ca or 604-527-4660.
Thursday, October 21
Canada Pension Plan and Old Age Security information session, giving an overview of the programs, 7 to 9 p.m. New Westminster Public Library, 716 Sixth Ave. Information will include eligibility requirements, types of benefits, available and benefits for low-income seniors. A question and answer period will follow. The information sessions are co-sponsored by New Westminster Public Library and Services Canada. For more information and to register, phone New Westminster Public Library at 604-527-4667. The library is wheelchair accessible.
Friday, October 24
Employment workshop, understanding labour market and employer expectations. Learn what you need to get a job in a series of employment workshops being held at the library on Fridays from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information and to register, phone Faustin at MOSAIC at 604-438-8214 ext. 112 or email [email protected] or register at the library at 604-527-4667. The series is co-sponsored by the New Westminster Public Library and MOSAIC's settlement program. The main library is at 716 Sixth Ave., www.nwpl.ca or 604-527-4660.
Saturday, November 1
Families of Early New Westminster; The Herring Memorial Symposium, Glenbrook Park Centre, Jamieson Court, New Westminster, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, contact [email protected] or visit http://franceselizabethherring.wordpress.com.
Saturday, November 8
Century House Association, craft sale and tea, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., 620 Eighth St. Lots of crafts and gift ideas galore, as well as afternoon tea. Pottery, bake sale, books, jewelry, raffles, quilting, painting, white elephant and variety crafts. Cash only. Everyone welcome.
The Ladies Auxiliary of the Fraternal Order of Eagles #20, craft fair, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., CAW hall at 707 12th St.
Ongoing
Are you passionate about the Fraser River? Do you enjoy meeting new people and working with children? Do you have a few hours to spare? Fraser River Discovery Centre is looking for volunteers to help lead its school program during the school year. No special background or experience is required, only an interest in working with children, a desire to learn about the Fraser River and a weekday morning or afternoon you can dedicate to the centre. To arrange a visit, call 604-521-8401, email Cindy Li at [email protected]. More information and application forms are available at www.fraserriverdiscovery.org.
If you're looking for something extra to read this fall, stop by the New Westminster Public Library's ongoing book sale. Discarded books and gift books that aren't needed in the library are sold for bargain prices ranging from 25 cents to $2. Special books have special prices. In addition to a wide selection of paperbacks and fiction, a different topic is featured every two weeks. Books on psychology and sociology are on sale from Sept. 15 to 25; religion and philosophy - Sept. 26 to Oct. 15; and humour - Oct. 16 to 26. All proceeds go toward special projects of the benefit of library users. The New Westminster Public Library is at 716 Sixth Ave., www.nwpl.ca or 604-527-4660.
Tillicum Toastmasters meets every Monday (except holidays) 7:20 to 9:30 p.m., Unity in Action Church hall, 1630 Edinburgh St. Do you want to get over your fear of public speaking? Do you want to learn the how to's within a supportive environment? Do you want to nail that upcoming interview for your dream job? Take the first step and join us for our next meeting and see what we're all about. All guests welcomed for free. No obligation to speak or sign up. Look forward to seeing you there
Ladies Auxiliary of the Fraternal Order of Eagles #20, craft fair on Saturday, Nov. 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at CAW hall, 707 12th St. Tables are $45. Juried. Proof of vendor liability insurance is required.
Join a book club at the library. The adult book club is held the third Thursday evening of the month at 7 p.m. from September to June. Register at 604-527-4667 or [email protected].
Kids who like to talk about books can join the Young Readers' Book Club, which begins the third week in September. There are clubs at both the main library and the Queensborough branch. Call the children's room at 604-527-4677 for information and to register. The New Westminster Public Library is at 716 Sixth Ave. and 920 Ewen Ave.
Families of Early New Westminster - The Herring Memorial Symposium, looking for presenters to share archival research, photos and geological findings at presentation on Nov. 1 at the Glenbrook Park Centre on Jamieson Court in New Westminster. Are you researching New Westminster's early families? For more details, contact [email protected] or visit http://franceselizabethherring.wordpress.com
Burnaby and New Westminster Newcomers Friendship Club. Club welcomes women who are new to the area, as well as longtime residents. Meet women of all ages and cultures to make new friends. Dinner meetings on the second Wednesday of each month, plus various events including book club, craft group, social Saturdays, etc. For info, contact Doris at [email protected] or call 604-492-4638 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Visit www.burnabynewwestminsternewcomers.com.
"Like to go fast? Like to have fun? Why not try speed skating. The introduction to speed skating program will give your child a chance to get on the ice and try speed skating, $25 for unlimited Wednesday and Saturday sessions within a two-week period (Wednesdays from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. and Saturdays from 3 to 4 p.m. The fee includes the use of club speed skates. Training sessions take place at Kensington Arena, 6159 Curtis Ave. in Burnaby, starting Sept. 13.
Just Pros Toastmasters, meets first and third Saturdays of month, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., Justice Institute, 715 McBride Blvd. For advanced Toastmasters. Info: wwwtoastmasters.org.
Royal City Concert Band welcomes new members to join us in making great music and performing throughout Metro Vancouver. Rehearsals are Thursday evenings from 7:45 to 9:45 p.m. in the band room at New Westminster Secondary. We are especially seeking percussionists and clarinetists. Contact Bill Walters at 778-866-9908 for more information.
St. Barnabas thrift store, open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A few more volunteers also sought. Call Sandy, 604-526-3033.
New Westminster Tinnitus Support Group, meets on the third Tuesday of the month, 7 p.m., Century House, 620 Eighth St., ABC Room. Tinnitus is a ringing, humming, buzzing or other sound in our head or ears that doesn't have an outside source. The group discusses the latest treatment information and coping and stress reduction techniques and offers encouragement and camaraderie to help combat this debilitating condition. For more information, contact group leader Gerald Blackwell at 604-600-9142 or email [email protected].
Naranon Support Group, a 12 Step program for relatives and friends of those affected by drug abuse and addiction problems. Meets every Monday evening from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., 323 Eighth St. (group room), New Westminster. All welcome. Call 604-878-8844 for more info.
Are you gay, bi-sexual or just not sure? Need a safe place to talk? HOMINUM is an informal discussion and support group to help gay, bi-sexual and questioning men with the challenges of being married, separated or single. Meets every Monday evening in locations around Metro Vancouver. For information and meeting location: call Don at 604-329-9760 or Art at 604-462-9813.
Writers Discovery Group, meets on the second Wednesday of the month, 10 a.m. to noon, New Westminster Public Library, 716 Sixth Ave. We welcome all writers wanting to reader their work and meet other writers who would like to discuss their writing style.
Pregnant and parenting program for youth 24 years and under, open to New Westminster and Burnaby residents. Bus tickets, produce, meals and resources. Come check us out. Call 604-298-6245 for more information.
Codependents Anonymous Freedom Group, a twelve-step program for men and women who want healthier, more functional relationships with themselves and others. Meetings are every Monday at 7:30 p.m. in the Neil Russell room, third floor, Columbia Tower at the Royal Columbian Hospital, 330 East Columbia St. For more information call Sue at 604-580-8889 or the CoDA Info Line at 604-515-5585.
Canadian Mental Health Association's Simon Fraser Branch, run and walk club, all welcome. Info: Madeleine Hawkins at 604-516-8080 or [email protected].
Volunteers needed, for Harmony Court Care Centre and Estate. If you are patient and enthusiastic and enjoy working with seniors, opportunities are available. Call Mary Aaron at 604-527-3322 or e-mail [email protected].
Sapperton Pensioners, meet on the third Wednesday of the month at 318 Keary St. New members welcome. Info: 604-724-9722.
Netherlands Association, speak Dutch with others and celebrate your heritage. Visit www.dutchnetwork.ca or contact Edie, [email protected] or 604-536-3394.
Royal City Communicators, meets the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at the Cameron Recreation Centre, 9523 Cameron St., Burnaby, helping those who are afraid to speak in public. Information: 604-939-5088.
Al-Anon and Alateen, help those whose lives are affected by someone else's drinking. Call 604-688-1716.
Council of Senior Citizens' Organizations (COSCO), an advocacy group devoted to improving the quality of life for seniors, invites membership and affiliation from seniors' organizations, associations and individuals. Info: Ernie Bayer, 604-576-9734 or [email protected].
Burnaby/New West Newcomers and Friendship Club, welcomes women who are new to the area, as well as longtime residents. Gives women of all ages and cultures a chance to make new friends through meetings and other events. Info: Jocelan, 604-520-3646.
Fraserside Employment Resource Centre, offers one-to-one support with employment counsellors, connecting people to no-cost career and job search services and helping people develop a plan to reach their job or career goal. Call 604-522-9701 for appointment.
Parkinson's group meets first Tuesday of the month, Century House in Moody Park, 1 to 3 p.m. Info: Margo Prentice 604-526-1997.
Writers Discovery Group, meets the second Wednesday of each month, 10 a.m. to noon, on the lower floor of New Westminster Library. Info: 604-522-9147.
Navy League and Sea Cadets, holds registration for boys and girls aged nine to 12 at Anacin Island Training Centre, 535 Derwent Way, Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. Call 604-589-4313.
Pregnancy Outreach Program, weekly support groups for high-risk women, includes lunch, one-hour education session, and the services of a registered dietician and public heath nurse. Food coupons and vitamins available for clients. Tuesdays, 12 to 2 p.m. at Olivet Baptist Church (613 Queens Ave.) and Wednesdays, 11:30 to 2 p.m. at Edmonds Resource Centre (#104-7355 Canada Way, Burnaby). Childcare provided for children over 18 months of age. Registration required, free. Call 604-659-2228.
Ukrainian nights, for kindergarten and children ages six to 11, with Friday evening sessions in language, culture and faith. Everyone welcome, at Holy Eucharist Cathedral, 501 Fourth Ave. Info: 604-526-9198.
Moms' group, meets Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Olivet Baptist Church, Seventh Street and Queens Avenue. Moms can relax, enjoy adult conversation and enjoy a craft, demo or speaker. Children up to age five have their own quality time out. Open to moms of all ages and religions. Info: Marion, 604-526-9394.
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), West End chapter meets Wednesdays at Connaught Heights Community School, 7 to 8 p.m., with weigh-in at 6:30 p.m. TOPS is a volunteer group that uses nutrition and portion control for effective weight loss. Membership is $30 per year; teens and pre-teens are free when accompanied by an adult. Info: Visit www.tops.org or call Jean, 604-525-4971.
Networking meeting, every Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. at the Waffle House. Enjoy breakfast with other business people, share leads and referrals and build your business. Guests welcome. RSVP to 778-986-9186.
Royal City Curling Club, daytime ladies' play, with Tuesday and Thursday leagues, 9:30 a.m. Drop-in clinics will be held on Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m. for new curlers and experienced players who wish to improve their game. Call 604-522-4737 or visit www.royalcitycc.com for info.
Women needed, to serve as support and outreach volunteers for the Maida Duncan Drop-In Centre run by the Elizabeth Fry Society of Greater Vancouver. Volunteers assist clients with finding and phoning shelters or housing, understanding and filling in forms, sorting donations and doing light cleaning. Shift minimum of two hours per week. Call Odessa, 604-520-1166 or e-mail [email protected].
Parkinson's group meeting, meet the first Tuesday of every month, 1 to 3 p.m. Century House. Info: 604-519-1066. New members and caretakers are welcome.
Access Justice, offers a new free legal clinic in New Westminster for those who cannot afford to seek legal advice. Family law, Thursdays from 4 to 6 p.m. at Lower Mainland Community Housing, 101-630 Columbia St. Info: 604-525-5376.
Baby and Me, a drop-in support group for moms with babies up to six months, offering lunch, group discussions, support, educational information, child care and more. Offered by Olivet Baptist Church (613 Queens Ave.) on Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and on Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Edmonds Resource Centre (#104-7355 Canada Way). Free. Call 604-659-2228 to register.
Wednesday Walking Club, meets Wednesdays at 7 p.m. On odd-numbered days of the month, meet in the parking lot near Century House, with walks through uptown New Westminster. On even-numbered days of the month, meet at Columbia Square with walks through the downtown/Quayside area, meeting at 70 10th St. Walks go from a half-hour to two hours, rain or shine. No charge. Contact [email protected], or just show up on time for the walk.
Family Mediation Practicum Program, offers free mediation to couples who are separating or who have been having ongoing conflicts with their ex about custody, access, guardianship, child support and property matters. Program located in New Westminster. Call 604-516-0788 or e-mail [email protected].
Family members of individuals with multiple sclerosis, looking for support, are invited to join the MS Society's family members group, with groups in the Tri-Cities and Vancouver areas. Info: 604-689-3144.
Westcoast Genesis Society - Genesis House, requires unique, mature and patient volunteers to provide community support for male federal offenders impacted by fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Call Leanne Mack, volunteer program coordinator, at 604-521-2978 or [email protected].
Parents' Coalition of B.C., supports parents who have had problems with access following marital breakdown, meeting the second Saturday of the month. Call 604-417-4045 or visit www.parentswhocare.ca.
New Westminster Rotary Club, holds its weekly meeting and lunch every Thursday at noon at the Old Bavaria Haus, 233 Sixth St., with guest speakers. Guests and visitors welcome. Information: 604-451-4133.
Breastfeeding, or pregnant and want to learn more? Looking for information or help? Wanting to meet breastfeeding mothers? Contact the La Leche League info line at 604-520-4623 for information about the Coquitlam group, which includes New Westminster mothers.
Purpose Family Circle drop-in, meets Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for crafts, stories, songs, games and rhymes for babies and children to five years, as well as pregnant moms. Health information available through guest speakers. Light lunch and bus tickets are provided. Held at 40 Begbie St., two blocks east of the New West SkyTrain station. For more info, call 604-526-2522 and ask for Josie or Pam.
Alzheimer's Caregiver support group, meets monthly, every second Tuesday of the month at Century House, Moody Park. Info: 604-298-0780.
Single moms' group, meets Mondays from 5 to 7 p.m. at New West Family Place, 101-93 Sixth St. Friendly, informal, drop-in group, with discussions on parenting and other issues of common interest. Child care for children under six provided free by trained staff.
Volunteer literacy tutors, sought to work with the Douglas College I-CARE program, which helps English-speaking adults learn to read and write. Volunteers should have excellent English writing and spelling skills. Tutoring can take place any day of the week in the Douglas College region. All tutor training and materials are free. Call 604-527-5409 for information.
Unemployed, and need help making your next career move? Join Transitions, a free three-week career exploration program sponsored by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada. Program runs monthly. Call 604-434-1177.
Volunteer Grandparents, brings together active, energetic people over the age of 50 with children who need a caring and committed mentor. Families in New Westminster and Burnaby are waiting for volunteer grandparents. To register, contact Volunteer Grandparents at 604-736-8271 or [email protected].
Got stuff you don't want? Recycle it with the Developmental Disabilities Association. Bins take cloth items and non-breakable housewares and pickup of dishes, toys and books can be arranged. Call 604-273-4332 or visit www.develop.bc.ca.
Burnaby-New Westminster Soroptimist Club, invites women to have fun and give back to the community. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts, 6450 Deer Lake Ave., Burnaby. Info: Doreen at 604-291-0254.
Senior peer counselling program, at Century House, provides emotional support to people who are facing the challenges of aging. They will visit you at home or at Century House. Info: 604-519-1064, or drop by Century House at 620 Eighth St.
Curlers wanted: If you're over 60, curled in the past or want to learn about this roaring game, sign up with the Royal City Curling Club Master League. Play is on Monday and/or Wednesdays. Season fees are $270 for twice weekly, $195 for once a week or $60 to spare. Info: Royal City Curling Club at 604-522-4737 or Wayne Banks at 604-738-5098.
Take Off Pounds Sensibly, (TOPS) chapters meet weekly throughout the Lower Mainland. TOPS is a non-profit, low-cost, weight-loss support group promoting sensible food choices and moderate exercise. To find a meeting location near you, call Gail, 604-941-8699.
Canadian Club of New Westminster and Fraser Valley, meets monthly at the Justice Institute of B.C., with meet-and-greet at 6 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m. and speaker at 8 p.m. Call Earl, 604-520-3889 or visit www.ourcanadian.blogspot.com for more info.
Girl Guides of Canada, year-round registration and volunteer info, 1-800-565-8111.
Meditation and therapeutic touch, offered by volunteer services at the Royal Columbian Hospital, 7 p.m. on Thursday nights. No cost. Call 604-520-4237 for further information.
Food Addicts Anonymous, meets every Monday night in Room 338, Columbia Tower, Royal Columbia Hospital, 7:30 p.m. Contact Michael, 604-930-8338, for information.
Vancouver Rape Relief, needs male volunteers for group that raises money for the crisis centre and transition house. Contact Louisa Russell at [email protected].
Urban Aboriginal Young Parents Program, offers a parent-child Mother Goose literacy program, Tuesdays and Thursdays 1 to 2 p.m., as well as playgroups for young parents and children up to five years old, Monday to Friday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. All programs free. Call 604-395-4106 or visit 713 Columbia St.
The New Westminster Amateur Radio Club, is looking for new members, and meets every third Tuesday of the month at Century House, Moody Park, with meetings starting at 7:30 p.m. Focus is on emergency radio communications within the City of New Westminster in the event of a disaster. Info: Peter, 604-525-6708.
ESL and preschool program for African women, a course sponsored by Family Services of Greater Vancouver and B.C. Settlement and Adaptation Program, for African mothers with young children, at Olivet Baptist Church, 613 Queens Ave. For more information, call 604-525-9144, ext. 55.
Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, Lower Mainland chapter, has 16 different support groups running around the Lower Mainland. For info on the one closest to you, call 604-689-3144, and ask for the Lower Mainland chapter.
Girl Guides of Canada, units meet weekly around Burnaby and New Westminster. Girls aged five to 18 and women 19 and up can join all year round. Call 1-800-565-8111.
Association for Awareness and Networking Around Disordered Eating (ANAD), provides education through community outreach. Should your community group or school wish a presentation that focuses on positive body image, call ANAD at 604-739-2070.
St. Barnabas, located at Fifth Avenue and 10th Street in New Westminster, is seeking committed volunteers for their thrift shop, community lunch program, emergency food cupboard and for the office. Make a positive difference in the community by helping with programs that benefit those citizens in need. For more information, please call 604-526-6646.
New Westminster Lions Club, meets every second and fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Boston Pizza, 1035 Columbia St., Columbia Square plaza. New members welcome.
Volunteers needed, to help with the Elizabeth Fry Society women's drop-in centre. If you are a woman who wants to make a difference in the lives of marginalized women and you have two hours a week between Tuesday and Sunday, for four to six months, call 604-520-1166 or e-mail [email protected].
Support groups, for men or women, aged 19 and up, who were sexually assaulted as children. Group also available for teenage girls, aged 13 to 18, who have been sexually assaulted. Groups held in safe, non-judgmental environment so that you feel free to share as much or as little as you want. Info: www.sarasociety.net, [email protected], 604-584-2626.
Scouts Canada, for boys and girls aged five to 17, meeting every Monday at various locations in New Westminster. Early registration for fall programs starting now. Parental involvement needed. Call Gord at 604-524-5780 for information.
ESL conversation circles, held at New Westminster Public Library. Program for all adults runs Saturdays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Program for women only runs Fridays, 10 to 11 a.m. at New Westminster Public Library. Free, drop-in program for adults who want to meet people and practise speaking English. Children welcome. Info: 604-527-4660.
Big Sisters, seeks new volunteers. Information sessions held regularly around the Lower Mainland. Call 604-873-4525 or visit www.bigsisters.bc.ca for a listing of information sessions.
Action Employment Services, an employment service for people with disabilities, offers services including needs assessment, career counselling, workshops and more, at 404-737 Carnarvon St. Info: 604-515-9525.
Cerebral Palsy Association of B.C., offers a free at-home pickup service for clothing, shoes and small household goods. Phone 604-515-9467.
Single Again, welcoming men and women who are starting over after a divorce, separation or severed relationship, facilitated by a certified counsellor who has travelled that journey. Info: 604-524-8411.
Al-Anon meetings, weekly, for family and friends of addicts, Thursdays at noon at Olivet Baptist Church, 613 Queens Ave. Ring the bell at the office.
Seniors Services Society of New Westminster, needs volunteer drivers for the Meals on Wheels program, three hours once a week. Also seeking grocery shoppers for the grocery-shopping program. Call 604-520-6621 or e-mail [email protected], or see www.seniorsservicessociety.ca.
Alzheimer Society of B.C., caregiver support group, meets in New Westminster the second Tuesday of each month, 7 to 9 p.m., call 604-298-0780. A Chinese-speaking support group meets the third Thursday of the month, 2 to 4 p.m. Info: 604-298-0711.
High Output Business Networking, New Westminster chapter, meets every Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. at the Waffle House uptown. Guests welcome. Call 778-986-9186 for info and to RSVP.
Spoken Word Toastmasters, offers help improving communication and speaking skills, building confidence and self-esteem, meeting Thursdays at 7 p.m. at Royal Oak Community Church, 7175 Royal Oak Ave., Burnaby. Guests and new members welcome. Info: Bernie, 604-464-4415 or e-mail [email protected].
Unattached Singles 50 to 65, a new singles-only group covering the Burnaby-to-Mission area, offers walks and activities weekly. No fees, no meetings. Just show up Saturdays for walks and be on the e-mail list for notice of other events. Info: [email protected].
New Westminster Family Place drop-in at Lord Kelvin Elementary, while school in session, every Thursday and Friday morning from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., 1010 Hamilton St. Drop-in includes free play, stories, songs and craft activities. Info: 604-520-3666 or www.nwfamily.bc.ca.
New Westminster Family Place, is a free family resource centre for parents with children five and under. There is a bright, action-packed playroom filled with toys, games, puzzles and crafts and staffed by early childhood educators and a family support worker. There is a parents' room for relaxing, and parenting classes are available. Drop-in hours are 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Monday through Saturday, and Monday and Tuesday afternoons from 1 to 3 p.m. Call 604-520-3666 for info on upcoming programs.
The Canadian Club of New Westminster and the Fraser Valley, meets the fourth Tuesday of each month at the Justice Institute, 715 McBride Blvd. Meet and greet at 6 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m. and guest speaker at 8 p.m. Info: Earl at 604-520-388 or www.ourcanadian.blogspot.com.
New Westminster Photography Club, meets first and fourth Tuesday of each month from September to May (exceptions May and December, first Tuesday only), 7:30 p.m., Centennial Lodge in Queen's Park. Info: nwphoto.org.
Overeaters Anonymous, Are you out of control when it comes to food? We can help. Meetings on Wednesdays from 7 to 8:15 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 335 Seventh St. (enter off Fourth Avenue). Info: 604-524-5244.
ESL Conversation Circles at the library, drop-ins for adults who want to meet people and practise speaking English. Session for all adults take place every Saturday from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.; sessions for women only take place every Friday from 10 to 11 a.m. (children are welcome). The programs are co-sponsored by Family Services of Greater Vancouver and held in the library's auditorium at 716 Sixth Ave. Info and registration: 604-527-4660.
Mom's Playgroup - Moms with small children meet for play dates and conversation. Search groups at www.NewWestCommunityGuide.ca for the group closest to you.
Western Society for Children, holds a parent support group in New Westminster, Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., with on-site child minding on request, for parents with children 12 and under who have diverse learning needs. To register, call Wanda Gendron at 604-515-0810.
Just Pros Toastmasters meets on the first and third Saturday of the month, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Justice Institute, 715 McBride Blvd. This is for advanced toastmasters.
