Meeting Location: Room 2, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 20 Granville Street. Co-Chairs Opening Remarks - Elisabeth/Kelly

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1 Agenda Central Council Date and Time: January 30, :00 7:00 pm Meeting Location: Room 2, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 20 Granville Street Time 5:00 5:05 5:10 5:40 5:45 5:50 6:15 Item Description Co-Chairs Opening Remarks - Elisabeth/Kelly Introduction of Guest Speaker Huda Presentation: Networking for an Inclusive Community Janet McAllister (Guest Speaker) Adoption of Previous Minutes November 28, 2011 Additions to Agenda Updates and Actions from Previous Business I. LMLIP Work Plan September 2011 March 31, 2012 A. Governance Model Update (Information/Sign-off) Elisabeth/Kelly B. Advocacy/Systemic Change Update (Information) Corinne C. Strategic Multimedia Communication Plan Update (Information) - Ria D. Cultural Sensitivity Training Update (Information) Corinne E. Outcomes Task Group (Information/Discussion) - Vicki II. Recruitment Process for Vacant Positions in LMLIP Henri/Lauren 6:20 6:25 III. IV. Welcoming Communities Initiative Vicki Report on Inclusion & Civic Engagement Sub-council - Chair/Vice 1

2 Chair (Information) - Huda 6:30 6:50 6:55 7:00 Updates from Sub-councils Implementation Plans I. Education Welcoming All Voices (Parent Engagement Group) Muriel II. Employment Check List of Key to Successful Employment Anne III. Inclusion & Civic Engagement Promote neighbourhood based activities and events that will provide opportunities for immigrants IV. to engage and participate in their new community - Valy Justice & Protection Service - Immigrant Community Capacity Engagement Application - Yahya V. Settlement (Family Settlement Collaborative) Mohamed VI. Settlement (Information Resource) Lauren New Business Terms of Reference Education Sub-council Membership Questions Muriel Co-chairs Closing Summary and Review of Action Items Adjourn Next Meeting Location and Date Kiwanis Senior Centre, February 27, 2012 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm 2

3 Minutes Central Council Meeting Location: Room 2, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 20 Granville Street Date and Time: January 30, :00 pm 7:00 pm Present: Ahmed Yahya Ali, Mohamed Al-Adeimi, Vicki Esses, Muriel Abbott, Corinne Walsh, Naeem Qureshi, Valy Marochko, Huda Hussein, Elisabeth White, Kelly McManus, Ria Urbi Regrets: Asma Ahmed, Henri Boyi, Dev Sainani, Anne Langille, Lauren Touchant Absent: Jo-Ann Hutchison, Jean-Simon Cantin Guests: Janice Walter, Dharshi Lacey, Janet McAllister, Ashleigh Weeden Item Description Information, Update, Action, Lead and Due Date 1. Co-Chair s Opening Remarks: Elisabeth welcomed Valy as the new Inclusion & Civic Engagement (ICE) Sub-council Chair; Elisabeth introduced Ashleigh, a municipal intern at the City of London, who was sitting-in at the meeting. Elisabeth advised Council about the February 8-10 Details of the WCI-LIP 1

4 WCI-LIP Conference in Toronto. 2. Guest Speakers Huda introduced Janice, Dharshi and Janet, representatives of Networking for an Inclusive Community (NIC). NIC was invited to speak to the Council about their work, how it parallels with LMLIP and how we can build on each other s capacities. NIC talked about their history, vision/mission, members and structure. They also presented the resources they are offering to the community such as the First Steps for Working with Newcomers which is a tool for agencies and service-providers working with immigrants and the Linking Cultures certificate course offered jointly with Fanshawe College. conference will be shared in the next meeting. It was noted how important it was to have NIC and LMLIP connecting, partnering and supporting each other s work to achieve positive outcomes for immigrants in our community. Project staff and co-chairs will continue to work with NIC to best maximize resources and expertise. 3. Adoption of Previous Minutes Motion to approve the November 28, 2011 Minutes as circulated was moved by Mohamed, seconded by Vicki and approved. 4. Additions to Agenda Questions on Sub-council membership - Muriel 5. Updates and Actions from Previous Business Governance Model Update Hard copies of the Terms of Reference were distributed to Council members at the meeting and they were requested to sign a Letter of Understanding to demonstrate their commitment. Council members who were not present at the meeting are asked to contact Ria to sign their letter of 2

5 understanding. Advocacy Task Group Update The Co-chairs and Huda met with the Executive Directors of the four settlement agencies on January 17. In this meeting, three issues were brought forward. It was subsequently presented to the task group and the group decided to focus on two issues: impending closures of Lorne Avenue and Sir George Ross Schools and providing accurate medical interpretation to immigrants. The group will be meeting with Sheila Carson of Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) to obtain more information about the school closures, including the number of immigrants that would be affected, the status of the closures and the plan for the affected individuals. Vicki suggested comparing these schools with other schools that have been considered for closure such as Tecumseh Public School. With regards to the medical interpretation to immigrants, the group will refer to the Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) as it seems that LHIN is the more appropriate group to handle the issue. Valy suggested including the issue of disproportionate cuts for settlement agencies in London (relative to other areas such as Toronto) in the discussion. The task group will continue working on how to position ourselves with regards to advocacy. Elisabeth will continue the conversation with our CIC officer. Strategic Multimedia Communication Plan Update Lashbrook Marketing & Public Relations is working with the task group to develop a media literacy guide A presentation will be brought to the next Central Council 3

6 and workshops for ethno-cultural groups. Huda has been connecting with the ethno-cultural groups and inviting them to participate in the workshops. We have received confirmations from the Arabic and Francophone communities. We are awaiting replies form the Korean, Chinese, Spanish and Pakistani groups. meeting. The media literacy guide and workshops will be complete by March 31. Cultural Sensitivity Training Update Corinne advised that the cultural sensitivity work group has engaged more agencies in the conversation including London Cross Cultural Learner Centre (CCLC), Pillar and NIC. The group is developing its short-term and long-term goals. The short-term goal would likely involve the development of a database of existing resources in London for diversity and cultural sensitivity training. It would be available by March 31. The group will also explore the possibilities of a longterm strategy that might include training to address a gap in audience or content. Outcomes Task Group Vicki noted that Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is also developing a tool to measure outcomes and she was advised to wait for the logic model. Meanwhile, the task group identified products, partnerships, interface and engagement of community members as measures and recommends that we start documenting these local items. Welcoming Communities Initiative (WCI) Vicki also informed about the upcoming WCI-LIP 4

7 Conference. One of the purposes of the conference is to showcase the work that has been happening between WCI and LIPs. Recruitment Process for Vacant Positions in LMLIP Huda put forward the recruitment committee s recommendations for Shamara Baidoobonso and German to be accepted as new Members at Large. Council members casted their votes and the recommendations for the two candidates were passed. The motion to recruit Members at Large from the Chinese or Korean community was moved by Naeem, seconded by Corinne and approved. LMLIP staff will invite Shamara and German to the next Central Council meeting. The task group will continue recruitment, with emphasis on the Chinese or Korean community in London. 6. Updated from Sub-councils Implementation Plans Health & Wellbeing - Corinne noted that the information gathered from the forum with service-providers and ethno-cultural groups last November 22 under the Seeds of Change Project has been collated and analyzed. Four themes emerged including stigma, communication, engagement & mentorship and trauma. The dialogues will continue in March. Education Muriel highlighted the resource guide and Powerpoint presentation that are being developed for the Parent Engagement Group. Presentations are being planned for three families of schools (secondary and elementary schools involved with ESL) within the TVDSB. The goal is to provide information and tools to help members of school councils engage more 5

8 newcomer parents and families. Employment Huda shared the London & Middlesex Immigrant Employment Council (LMIEC) Newsletter (4 th edition) with the Council containing the checklist of successful employment as provided by employers and employed immigrants. It was developed by the LMIEC and a work group from the sub-council. The checklist can be accessed through the Immigration Portal. Inclusion & Civic Engagement Valy informed of the following: The neighbourhood action group will be holding focus groups with immigrants in the hope of obtaining a better understanding of how to engage immigrants at the neighbourhood level. A DVD will later be produced with this information and will be made available to the community and on the Immigration Portal. The system level engagement work group is developing a questionnaire for community leaders and refining their action plan. The interstitial messages work group will be on hold until information from the focus groups are available. (Note: An interstitial ad is an advertising message that is inserted in between program segments for local television or a fullpage ad appearing before the actual webpage.) Meanwhile, the sub-council will not pursue its plan for information-sharing among services as this support is already being provided by NIC. 6

9 Justice & Protection Services Yahya shared that a task group is working on the Immigrant Community Capacity Engagement Application to the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). It will be submitted on March 1 as a new application for a one-year project. Settlement Mohamed shared the following: The Family Settlement Collaborative met in December to review the Terms of Reference. The group decided to focus on families with children and youth. Huda will sit on the Age-Friendly Task Force and see if some connections could be made with the work of the two groups. The Newcomer Youth Project funded by WCI and co-led by The University of Western Ontario, Faculty of Education and the South London Neighbourhood Resource Centre is underway. Youth aged would be invited to participate in the study. An advisory committee will be struck to monitor the project. Mohamed also provided an update on the Information Resource Group which has met twice since November. The group has been exploring ways on how to inform and attract newcomers to London. 7. New Business Questions on Sub-council Membership Muriel brought up the issue whether members belonging to the same organization could share a position on the It was agreed by Council that the Terms of Reference does 7

10 Sub-council (i.e. the person is unable to attend the meeting and sends a co-worker in lieu of). not allow members to share a position and each member has its own commitment to LMLIP. 8. Co-Chair s Closing Summary and Review of Action Items. 9. Adjourn The motion to adjourn at 7:00 pm was made by Corinne. 10. Next Meeting Location and Date Auditorium, Kiwanis Recreation Centre February 27, 2012, 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm 8

11 Agenda Central Council Date and Time: February 27, :00 7:00 pm Meeting Location: Auditorium, Kiwanis Senior Centre 78 Riverside Drive Time 5:00 5:05 6:05 6:10 6:15 Item Description Co-Chairs Opening Remarks - Elisabeth/Kelly Welcome Shamara Baidoobonso and German Gutierrez as new Members-at-Large Media Literacy Presentation (Information/Discussion) Jennifer Wain, Lashbrook Marketing & Public Relations Adoption of Previous Minutes January 30, 2012 Additions to Agenda Updates and Actions from Previous Business I. LMLIP Work Plan September 2011 March 31, 2012 Cultural Sensitivity Training Update (Information) Corinne II. III. Welcoming Communities Initiative Vicki WCI-LIP Conference in Toronto Elisabeth & Huda Recruitment for Vacant Positions in LMLIP Central Council (Information/Approval) Lauren 6:40 Updates from Sub-councils Implementation Plans (Information) I. Education Welcoming All Voices (Parent Engagement Group) - Muriel II. Employment (Portal Committee) Anne III. Inclusion & Civic Engagement (Neighbourhood Action Group) Valy 1

12 IV. Justice & Protection Service (Immigrant Community Capacity Engagement Application OTF Update) - Yahya 6:50 6:55 7:00 New Business Potential Conference Presentations - Muriel Co-chairs Closing Summary and Review of Action Items Adjourn Next Meeting Location and Date Kinsmen Recreation Centre March 26, 2012 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm 2

13 Minutes Central Council Meeting Location: Auditorium, Kiwanis Senior Centre 78 Riverside Drive Date and Time: February 27, :00 pm 7:00 pm Present: Ahmed Yahya Ali, Mohamed Al-Adeimi, Vicki Esses, Muriel Abbott, Anne Langille, Valy Marochko, Dev Sainani, Shamara Baidoobonso, Jean- Simon Cantin, German Gutierrez-Sanin Elisabeth White, Kelly McManus, Huda Hussein, Ria Urbi Regrets: Asma Ahmed, Henri Boyi, Lauren Touchant, Corinne Walsh, Naeem Qureshi, Jo-Ann Hutchison Absent: None Guests: Lashbrook Marketing & Public Relations Jennifer Wain, Samantha Kent, Vanessa Dolishny Item Description Information, Update, Action, Lead and Due Date 1. Co-Chair s Opening Remarks: Elisabeth welcomed German and Shamara as new Members at Large. Council introduced themselves to the new members. 1

14 2. Presentation Kelly introduced Lashbrook Marketing & Public Relations who gave a media literacy presentation. The media literacy workshops are being carried out as part of the recommendations in the Strategic Multimedia Communication Plan. It will be delivered to five ethnocultural groups to increase community capacity in using multimedia. Lashbrook presented an overview of the three-part workshop that includes an introduction to local media, guidelines in developing stories and how to pitch them to the media. A resource binder will also be distributed to participants that can be used in an ongoing way beyond the delivery of the workshop. A survey will also be distributed to participants to gain feedback and evaluate the effectiveness of the workshop. Project Staff will continue to be in contact with the five targeted ethno-cultural groups including the Arabicspeaking, Chinese, Pakistani, Spanish-speaking and Francophone communities to invite them to the media literacy workshops. A total of six workshops are scheduled for March 2012 and would include one cross-cultural session. 3. Adoption of Previous Minutes Motion to approve the January 30, 2012 Minutes as circulated was moved by Muriel, seconded by Yahya and approved. 4. Additions to Agenda Potential Conference Presentations Muriel Government Reports (Drummond Report and Social Assistance Review Commission [SARC] Discussion Paper) Elisabeth 2

15 5. Updates and Actions from Previous Business Cultural Sensitivity Training Update Ria informed that the work group is continuing conversations with community partners, agencies and professionals who are delivering training in the field of diversity, equity and cultural competency. The work group recognizes the wealth of resources available to the community and will continue to work on the database for sharing with the community. Welcoming Communities Initiative (WCI) Vicki shared that WCI is working on a number of reports to be completed. They will also be meeting with the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) to ensure that they are engaging the partners. Huda also informed the Council about the successful Outcomes Presentation at the recent LIP-WCI Conference in Toronto. It was commended for its concreteness, completeness and simplicity. Elisabeth thanked Vicki, Huda and Council for their leadership. Elisabeth acknowledged the importance of this event that brought together WCI, LIPs and CIC, as well as those in other provinces. Vicki informed that all the presentations would be available in the WCI website soon. Elisabeth also encouraged the Council to look at the Tamarack website for more information on community development. Link to Tamarack website - Recruitment Process for Vacant Positions in LMLIP On behalf of the working group, Huda put forward the Project staff will invite Shawn 3

16 recommendation of the committee for Shawn Luo (of the Chinese community) for the position of Member at Large. Council members voted and the recommendation was passed. The Council now has full membership. to the next Central Council meeting. Moving forward, recruitment committee will provide bio/background information of candidates recommended to the Council. 6. Updated from Sub-councils Implementation Plans Education Muriel informed that the Welcoming All Voices resource is complete and the pilot two-hour workshops are scheduled for March 20 & 29. The Parent Engagement Group developed these tools to help newcomer parents in elementary and secondary schools become more engaged. The workshops are now open to any parent across the city and made possible through in-kind contributions by members of the work group including: Middlesex London Health Unit South London Neighbourhood Resource Centre London Cross Cultural Learner Centre Access Centre for Regulated Employment LUSO Community Services School Council,Thames Valley Council of Home and School Associations Child and Youth Network Chinese Canadian National Council London Chapter Thames Valley District School Board Individual volunteers. Elisabeth thanked the group for their contributions and recognized that through collaboration, members of the group were able to work together on a project that aligns Muriel will provide feedback on the pilot workshop at a future Central Council meeting. 4

17 with their individual mandates and pool their resources to deliver tools that would benefit the community. Employment Anne provided an update on the committee that is reviewing the Immigration Portal. As a background, the portal received funding from the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration (MCI) to facilitate the upgrades. The employment sub-council is contributing to the content of the portal, specifically to the Working section. In the last sub-council meeting, Jill Tansley of the City of London presented and received feedback from the group on the proposed changes. Anne also mentioned that the portal will largely be link-driven and will be using a simpler language. A consultant is working with Anne and Robert Collins of London Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) and it will be submitted to the committee for their review. Inclusion & Civic Engagement Valy informed that the focus groups by the Neighbourhood Action Group have started in early February. The information gathered from these groups will be used in designing the DVD that will help immigrants become more engaged in their neighbourhoods. This initiative also ties in with the City s Strengthening Neighbourhood Strategy (SNS). Justice & Protection Services The application to the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) was submitted. The application was lead by John Howard Society and as suggested by OTF officials the group consulted with, was submitted for a one-year pilot project. Dev asked about the implications of sub-council 5

18 applications for funding on LMLIP s overall strategy. Elisabeth clarified that LMLIP s role is to facilitate the applications and that these are also directed by the recommendations in the strategic plan. Council agreed that this is an important issue that needs to be further explored. A work group composed of Dev, Valy and German will develop a guideline for submitting applications and will be reporting back to Council in the next meeting. 7. New Business Potential Conference Presentations Muriel informed that the Parent Engagement Group is interested in applying to two conference presentations the On New Shores and Quest Conference. The former is focused on community work and the latter on equity and education. The motion was made by Mohamed, seconded by Anne and approved. Government Reports Elisabeth talked about two reports the report by Don Drummond, Chair of the Commission on the Reform of Ontario s Public Services and the Social Assistance Review Commission (SARC) Discussion paper. Elisabeth particularly recommended the immigration section of the Drummond report as it has recommendations favorable to Ontario. The SARC paper has similar findings and is referenced by the Drummond report. Project staff will send links to the reports to Council. LMLIP Year 3 As LMLIP is entering its third year, Kelly asked Council for feedback and suggestions about our priority activities for the next year. 6

19 Council felt the need to review outcomes at this stage. Anne noted that plans are organic and does not follow a strict timeline. Shamara emphasized the importance of documenting the work that has been done recognizing that systemic change would happen in the long-term. Elisabeth encouraged Council to think about what is different now that the community has come together through LMLIP. Jean-Simon noted that LMLIP has been doing well in carrying out its implementation plans and suggested to continue doing its work. Apart from outcomes, Mohamed also recommended looking and learning from the successes of other LIPs. Valy also suggested to look at emerging issues that affect immigrants and think about who still needs to be engaged in the sub-councils. Feedback will be considered by the co-chairs and project staff as they prepare for the new fiscal year (April 1, 2012). Review of sub-council implementation plans will be added in the next agenda. 7

20 8. Co-Chair s Closing Summary and Review of Action Items. Elisabeth thanked Council for an engaged discussion. 9. Adjourn Meeting adjourned at 7:00 pm. 10. Next Meeting Location and Date Room 2, Kinsmen Recreation Centre March 26, 2012 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm 8

21 Agenda Central Council Date and Time: March 26, :00 7:00 pm Meeting Location: Room 2, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 20 Granville Street Time 5:00 5:05 5:05 5 :10 Item Description Co-Chairs Opening Remarks - Elisabeth/Kelly Welcome Shawn Luo as a new Member-at-Large Update on LMLIP Funding Adoption of Previous Minutes February 27, 2012 Additions to Agenda Updates and Actions from Previous Business I. LMLIP Year 2 Work Plan September 2011 March 31, 2012 A. Strategic Multimedia Communication Plan Update (Information) Dev B. Cultural Competency Training Update (Information) TBA C. Guidelines Re: Projects Emerging from LMLIP Community Immigrant Strategic Plan Valy, German & Dev II. Welcoming Communities Initiative Vicki 5:30 5:50 6:40 Review of Year 2 Sub-councils Implementation Plans (Information) Huda LMLIP Year 3 Work Plan April March 31, 2013 (Discussion) New Business LMLIP Coordination with Other Planning Initiatives (i.e. Child & Youth Network, Strengthening Neighbourhood Strategy & Age Friendly London Task Force) (Information/Discussion) 1

22 Elisabeth/Kelly 6:50 7:00 Co-chairs Closing Summary and Review of Action Items Adjourn Next Meeting TBD 2

23 Minutes Central Council Meeting Location: Room 2, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 20 Granville Street Date and Time: March 26, 2012, 5:00 pm 7:00 pm Present: Mohamed Al-Adeimi, Vicki Esses, Muriel Abbott, Anne Langille, Valy Marochko, Dev Sainani, Shamara Baidoobonso, Jean-Simon Cantin, German Gutierrez-Sanin, Lauren Touchant, Shawn Luo, Gisele Hauser, Elisabeth White, Kelly McManus, Huda Hussein, Ria Urbi Regrets: Asma Ahmed, Henri Boyi, Corinne Walsh, Naeem Qureshi Absent: Ahmed Yahya Ali, Jo-Ann Hutchison Item Description Information, Update, Action, Lead and Due Date 1. Co-Chair s Opening Remarks: Elisabeth welcomed Shawn Luo as new Member at Large. Shawn introduced himself as a Chinese immigrant to Canada. He arrived in 2004, studied at the Richard Ivey School of Business and currently works as an investment advisor at the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). Elisabeth also welcomed Gisele Hauser, the Health & Wellbeing Vice Chair (substituting for Corinne). Elisabeth provided an update to LMLIP funding. Elisabeth and Jean-Simon are working together to finalize the LMLIP contract with Citizenship & Information will be shared 1

24 Immigration Canada (CIC) for April March It is anticipated to be completed shortly. with Council once available. 2. Adoption of Previous Minutes Motion to approve the February 27, 2012 Minutes as circulated was moved by Dev, seconded by Vicki and approved. 3. Additions to Agenda None 4. Updates and Actions from Previous Business Strategic Multimedia Communication Plan Update Dev informed the Council that the media literacy workshop prepared by Lashbrook Marketing & Public Relations has been delivered to five ethno-cultural groups namely the Arabic-speaking, Chinese, Pakistani, Spanish-speaking and Francophone communities (total of 23 attendees). They have also been invited for a cross-cultural follow-up session where participants will be engaged in a deeper conversation about the challenges and ways to get their voice or story out to the larger community. Central Council and Sub-council members (including Mohamed, Susanne Quan, Naeem, Dev, German and Lauren) were thanked for helping identify the leads and welcoming their respective communities to the workshop. Kelly recognized their leadership and support for the project. Task group will reconvene in April and start planning for the next phase of the project. Cultural Competency Training Update Gisele provided an update to the cultural competency Task group will meet in April 2

25 training work group. She mentioned that the group is not only planning to coordinate training to service providers in the short-term but also thinking about strategies that would support systemic change. To support the shortterm goal, Valy mentioned that a survey was distributed to the Sub-councils. Ria explained that the purpose of the survey is to obtain further information on the training needs of service providers, confirm existing resources and help identify target audiences. to develop a short-term work plan based on the results of the survey. Guidelines Re: Projects Emerging from LMLIP Community Immigrant Strategic Plan Dev, German and Valy met since the last meeting, and Dev shared highlights from their discussion. There was considerable discussion of whether to offer letters of support from the LMLIP Council. Currently, LMLIP acts as a coordinating body that supports the applications at the Sub-council level based from the strategic plan Attribution is both to the lead agency and LMLIP Ongoing applications are shared with Central Council for information Council discussed whether to keep or modify the status quo. Kelly recognized the importance of the issue and thanked the Council for bringing the matter into the table. As the LMLIP continues to evolve, items for continued exploration include LMLIP s role in the application, attribution and outcomes. 3

26 Welcoming Communities Initiative (WCI) Vicki indicated that more information will be provided at the next meeting. 5. Review of Year 2 Sub-councils Implementation Plans Huda shared a review of LMLIP Year 2 Work Plan by outlining the progress to date by the Council and the six Sub-councils vis-à-vis the defined action steps from the strategic plan. Sub-council chairs were invited to speak if there is anything more they would like to add in the report. For the Employment Sub-council, Anne mentioned that the Review Committee of the Immigration Portal recently met and confirmed that changes on the portal will be underway. Also, the May 2012 networking event for immigrant job-seekers will be hosted by the City Mayor. Anne will share highlights of the portal changes in a future meeting. Kelly recognized Huda s leadership in linking the work at the Sub-council level. Elisabeth highlighted that the review document serves as a good basis in planning for Year 3, as well gives the Council a good sense on what has been accomplished thus far in the strategic plan. 6. LMLIP Year 3 Work Plan April 1, 2012 March 31, 2013 The Council was broken down into two smaller groups to review the draft work plan for Year 3. Huda presented the questions and asked Council to think about. What is missing/should be removed from the plan? There was nothing suggested to be removed; 4

27 however, some items that the Council felt were missing in the plan include: Response to funding cuts Jean-Simon reminded Council that CIC, as funder, will not allow LMLIP to advocate on recent funding cuts. Elisabeth suggested that one way to address the issue is by supporting collaborative, creative and community-based applications that would allow different agencies and organization to pool and maximize the tightened resources in the community. Community outreach/event Understanding the impact (specifically in London) of recent changes in immigration policies Providing support to emerging and smaller immigrant communities in London (i.e. Filipino community) Connecting with other initiatives (i.e. London Diversity & Race Relations Committee, Colour of Poverty) What makes you excited/nervous about the plan? The plan brings disparate groups in the community together and aims to deliver concrete results. Other items that should be considered include: Increasing capacity to grow more leaders Supporting systemic change in the community (thinking big picture) Maintaining a sense of urgency for the project 5

28 Keeping current on political and socio-economic events impacting the work of LMLIP Ongoing environmental scanning (i.e. trends at the provincial, national, municipality level) Anne mentioned that information-sharing would help create a sustained awareness among members and stimulate questions for further discussions. Vicki noted that WCI pools relevant issues across Canada and posts it on their website. Where do you think are the opportunities in the plan? Collaboration with other LIPs in Ontario Huda mentioned that LMLIP is already connected with the network Kelly thanked the Council for their input and assured that LMLIP would move together towards a strategic direction and continue to be community- driven. Link to recent and archived articles pooled by WCI from different sources in the national and local media - ca/media-corner/ Feedback will be incorporated in the revised work plan and shared with Council in the next meeting. 7. New Business LMLIP Coordination with Other Planning Initiatives In advance of the Engage for Change event to be hosted by the Child & Youth Network, Valy stressed the importance of coordinating with other planning initiatives in the city. Efforts in changing the community should be done at a network level than separately by organizations. Kelly noted that LMLIP should be always thoughtful and intentional in our work as it inevitably connects with other ongoing city-wide activities. LMLIP will continue to be connected to city-wide planning initiatives such as Child & Youth Network, Strengthening Neighbourhood Strategy & Age Friendly London Task Force. Regular updates will be provided to LMLIP Council through the project staff. 6

29 8. Co-Chair s Closing Summary and Review of Action Items. Elisabeth thanked Council for their input on the Year 3 Work Plan with a note that LMLIP will continue to morph and evolve. 9. Adjourn Motion to adjourn at 7:00 pm was made by Shamara, seconded by Mohamed and approved. 10. Next Meeting Location and Date April 30, 2012, 5:00 pm 7:00 pm Boardroom, United Way of London & Middlesex Project Staff to communicate meeting location and dates for the new fiscal year to Council. 7

30 Agenda Central Council Date and Time: April 30, :00 7:00 pm Meeting Location: United Way of London & Middlesex (Boardroom), 409 King Street Time 5:00 Item Description Co-Chairs Opening Remarks - Elisabeth/Kelly Update on LMLIP Funding 5:05 Immigration Portal Presentation (Information/Discussion) Jill Tansley, City of London 5:30 Adoption of Previous Minutes March 26, :35 Additions to Agenda Updates and Actions from Previous Business 5:40 5:50 6:10 I. Draft Year 2 Progress/Achievement Report (Discussion/Approval) Huda II. Draft Year 3 Work Plan (Discussion/Approval) Huda A. Strategic Multimedia Communication Plan Update - Dev/Kelly o Progress To Date (Information) o Recommended Next Steps (Discussion/Approval) o LMLIP Communication Strategy (Information/Discussion) 1

31 6:40 6:50 III. B. Cultural Competency Training Update (Information) Corinne Welcoming Communities Initiative Vicki 6:55 Co-chairs Closing Summary and Review of Action Items 7:00 Adjourn Next Meeting Location and Date Kinsmen Recreation Centre, Room 4 May 28, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm 2

32 Minutes Central Council Meeting Location: Boardroom, United Way of London & Middlesex 409 King Street Date and Time: April 30, 2012, 5:00 pm 7:00 pm Present: Mohamed Al-Adeimi, Muriel Abbott, Valy Marochko, Shamara Baidoobonso, Jean- Simon Cantin, Lauren Touchant, Shawn Luo, Corinne Walsh, Naeem Qureshi, Ahmed Yahya Ali, Elisabeth White, Kelly McManus, Huda Hussein, Ria Urbi Regrets: Asma Ahmadi, Henri Boyi, Vicki Esses, Anne Langille, Dev Sainani, German Gutierrez- Sanin Absent: Jo-Ann Hutchison Guest: Jill Tansley (City of London) Item Description Information, Update, Action, Lead and Due Date 1. Co-Chair s Opening Remarks: Elisabeth informed the Council that funding for LMLIP from Citizenship & Immigration Canada (CIC) is approved until March 31, Presentation Kelly introduced Jill Tansley, City of London s lead on the Immigration Portal. The presentation is intended to create more awareness on the Immigration Portal and explore opportunities for strengthened interactions between LMLIP and the portal. The 1

33 Immigration Portal received funding from the Ministry of Citizenship & Immigration (MCI) in 2006 and is designed to be a one-stop shop for all information related to attracting and retaining immigrants in London. Currently, it is being maintained through a partnership with London Cross Cultural Learner Centre (CCLC). Jill mentioned that the Immigration Portal is currently undergoing improvements through funding received from MCI and the City of London. The work is led by the Portal Steering Committee whose members also include Anne and Valy of the LMLIP Central Council. The proposed changes cover improvements on design and content. The Immigration Portal is connected with LMLIP through: Information Resource work group members reviewed and provided input including the highlighting of entrepreneurial opportunities on the portal Active involvement with Settlement and Employment Subcouncils Collaboration with the Neighbourhood Action work group (ICE Sub-council) to produce the DVD for uploading on the portal After the presentation, Council members also offered their comments and suggestions to Jill: Shawn opened the possibility of translating sections of the portal to target specific ethno-cultural groups. Council members would be able to seek volunteers from their communities to do the work. Shamara suggested to include links to the websites of ethno-cultural groups. 3. Adoption of Previous Minutes Motion to approve the March 26, 2012 Minutes as circulated was moved by Mohamed, seconded by Shamara and approved. 4. Additions to Agenda None Shamara will forward links to Project Staff for sharing with Jill. 5. Updates and Actions from Previous Business Draft Year 2 Progress/Achievement Report

34 Kelly and Huda presented the report for additional comments from Sub-council Chairs and approval of the Council. The report highlighted accomplishments in the second year of implementing key priorities from the Community Immigrant Strategic Plan. Kelly emphasized that accomplishments outlined in the report signal that LMLIP is a vehicle for moving the community forward. Valy requested to change disengaged community leaders to less engaged community leaders under the Inclusion & Civic Engagement section (page 9). He also requested to include Sherin Hussein in the acknowledgement section. The motion to approve the report as amended is moved by Shamara, seconded by Yahya and approved. Project staff will make the corrections on the final report. Draft Year 3 Work Plan Huda presented the work plan with additions for the Employment Sub-council: Collaborate with Winning Immigrant Strategies for Entrepreneurship 5 (WISE5) to identify and implement an action item from the project related to employment Collaborate with London Middlesex Immigrant Employment Council (LMIEC) to build on their project of existing advertisements on the mentorship program and bring out success stories of employers who hired immigrants Muriel also shared about the planned collaboration between the Education and Employment Sub-councils to advise educational institutions on the programs needed in our community that will enhance immigrants employability. Shamara asked about focusing on quality rather than quantity of immigrant employment. Elisabeth agreed on the fact that we need to emphasize the quality of jobs. Huda also mentioned that the employment sub-council will be developing a flowchart that will focus on the process of seeking/finding jobs for jobseekers. Some corrections on the document flagged by Council: Grammatical error on Access to Education Access to adult education will continue to BE enhanced and WILL RESPOND to current local needs of immigrants Lead for Family Settlement Collaborative Settlement Sub- Project staff will include the additions and corrections on the final version of the work plan. LMIEC is the organization specifically looking into this issue. Project staff will take this up to the Employment Subcouncil where LMIEC is a member of. 3

35 council Kelly mentioned that the work plan is fluid and would adapt to changes as necessary. She also thanked Council members who are leading the projects. Elisabeth emphasized the work plan focuses on enhancing inclusion among members of the community, supporting coordination among service-providers and responding to labour market gaps affecting immigrant employability. Huda made the motion to approve the report as amended, seconded by Lauren and approved. Education Sub-council Update Muriel informed that the proposal to present at the On New Shores Conference in Toronto in October 2012 was accepted. Muriel will present about Welcoming All Voices training and resource guide on behalf of LMLIP. Strategic Multimedia Communication Plan Update On behalf of Dev, Kelly walked the Council through the context and development of the Strategic Multimedia Communication Plan. Kelly recognized the complexity of the project while noting that some work has been done to address the issue. The activities undertaken focused on stimulating communication between immigrants and host community and building increased capacity through dialogues and workshops. It was then recommended to transfer the project to ICE Sub-council given the connections with the Community Champion focus group event and interstitial messages production that support the subcouncil s strategic priorities. Both of these activities aim for the engagement of immigrants and the improvement of perception and attitudes towards immigrants. The task group is recommending that the Central Council will focus on building relationships with media partners and planning for the overall LMLIP communication strategy. Ria discussed the LMLIP Communication Strategy and sought inputs from the Council regarding recommended vehicles for communicating about LMLIP. This includes the Immigration Portal, quarterly e-bulletins, traditional and social media, events and presentations/displays. Valy recommended adding a section on the Immigration The SMCP project will be transitioned to ICE Sub-council under the leadership of the Chair. Yahya volunteered to join the work group. Project Staff will plan for next steps to move ahead with the communication strategy. 4

36 Portal for updates instead of having e-bulletins that are timeintensive to make Yahya asked how to respond to media biases and news that do not accurately depict immigrants. Muriel thought that by building relationships with the media partners, we would be able to ask for their support to positively represent immigrants in the media Cultural Competency Training Update Corinne informed that the task group met last April 18 to discuss the results from needs assessment survey distributed to LMLIP Subcouncils. The group is in the process of identifying a training gap and thinking how training can support the bigger task of systems change. In the short-term, the group is planning on releasing the database and connecting with the healthcare sector to identify a training gap. The group also discussed the possibility of forming a Communities of Practice. 6. New Business None 7. Co-Chair s Closing Summary and Review of Action Items. Elisabeth thanked Council members for their continued energy and support and acknowledged that there is a lot of work ahead. The final Community Achievement Report and Year 3 Work Plan will be shared at the next meeting. The recommendations for the work of the ICE Sub-Council and Central Council regarding communications will also move forward. Elisabeth will also be at the meeting of the Federal Provincial Municipal Immigration Committee on May 28 and will keep the Council updated. 5

37 8. Adjourn Meeting adjourned at 7:00 pm. 9. Next Meeting Location and Date May 28, 2012, 5:00 pm 7:00 pm 6 th Floor (Boardroom), WIL Employment Connections 6

38 Agenda Central Council Date and Time: June 25, :00 7:30 pm Meeting Location: The Skill Centre 141 Dundas Street Boardrooom 6 th Floor Time Item Description 5:00 Co-Chairs Opening Remarks - Elisabeth/Kelly Municipal Immigration Committee LMLIP Community Achievement Report 5:05 5:10 5 :15 Adoption of Previous Minutes April 30, 2012 Additions to Agenda I. Updates and Actions from Previous Business A. LMLIP Communication Strategy (Information/Discussion) Ria B. Cultural Competency Training Update (Information) Corinne C. Measuring Outcomes (Information) - Vicki D. Advocacy (Information) - Naeem and/or Lauren 5:40 II. Welcoming Communities Initiative Vicki 5:50 6:00 Co-Chairs Closing Summary and Review of Action Items Social 1

39 7:30 Adjourn Next Meeting: Date - September 24, 2012, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Location - TBA 2

40 Minutes Central Council Meeting Location: Boardroom - 6 th Floor The Skill Centre, 141 Dundas Street Date and Time: June 25, 2012, 5:00 pm 7:30 pm Present: Muriel Abbott, Mohamed Al-Adeimi, Shamara Baidoobonso, Jean-Simon Cantin, Vicki Esses, Huda Hussein, Anne Langille, Shawn Luo, Valy Marochko, Kelly McManus, Naeem Qureshi, Dev Sainani, Lauren Touchant, Corinne Walsh, Elisabeth White, Ria Urbi Regrets: Ahmed Yahya Ali, Henri Boyi, Jo-Ann Hutchison Absent: German Gutierrez-Sanin Guest: David Grand Item Description Information, Update, Action, Lead and Due Date 1. Co-Chair s Opening Remarks: Kelly welcomed the group and introduced David Grand. He was observing the meeting as part of his internship in United Way London & Middlesex. Municipal Immigration Committee Elisabeth gave an update on the May meeting of the Municipal Immigration Committee. The meeting was attended by Mark Davidson, Deborah Tunis and Lucille Leblanc Director Generals in Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). The Local Immigration Partnership (LIP) remains to be a priority with a new Call for Proposal coming out in July The committee will be meeting regularly to discuss ways on how to work collegially at the federal, provincial and municipal levels. 3

41 Elisabeth also informed the Council about a LIPs Working Group being coordinated by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration, City of Toronto and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario. Elisabeth is representing London & Middlesex, Windsor and Hamilton. The LIPs Working Group will have its first teleconference on June 27 to explore how the different players can work together as they relate to immigrant integration and building strong communities. Elisabeth will share updates from this meeting in September. LMLIP Community Achievement Report The report has been circulated to the community and uploaded on the Immigration Portal. It is a tool to communicate our efforts thus far to help integrate immigrants into our community. Hard copies were also available to Council in the meeting. Vacancy in Central Council Asma Ahmadi has resigned from the Council in June 2012, leaving a vacancy in the Council for a member at large. The recruitment committee will reconvene to discuss who we are missing in the table and start recruiting from the targeted ethno-cultural community. 2. Adoption of Previous Minutes Motion to approve the April 30, 2012 Minutes as circulated was moved by Dev, seconded by Lauren and approved. 3. Additions to Agenda None An electronic copy of the application of the recommended candidate (resume and expression of interest) will be sent to the Council over the summer. After an agreement, the new member at large will be invited to join the Council in September meeting. 4

42 4. Updates and Actions from Previous Business LMLIP Communication Strategy Ria presented the updated Communication Strategy with inputs from last Council meeting. Mohamed mentioned that we need to be communicating more with government and policy-makers as part of our evolution as LIP. The Council also agreed to improve our communication with the community (immigrants, non-immigrants, service providers, etc.) The Immigration Portal is a key component to this, with an emphasis from Vicki that it must be improved to make it more engaging to the users. Traditional media was discussed a way to reach out to the larger community given the reach of this medium. Corinne also suggested social media as a next step for LMLIP in engaging the younger demographic. It was further noted that traditional media is using social media to engage. Cultural Competency Training Update The database of training resources was distributed to the community through the LMLIP network and Networking for an Inclusive Community (NIC). The database was distributed electronically with the intent that it will be updated regularly. Corinne also shared that the group will be meeting on June 28 to discuss an opportunity to tap into the healthcare sector with the help of Sheila Densham of the South West Regional Cancer Program. Stanislav Rajic, community developer in Northbrae Community Hub, also prepared a work plan for a Communities of Practice in his neighbourhood which will also be brought forward for discussion. Outcomes The task group has been thinking pro-actively and started recording activities to be used later in assessing outcomes for LMLIP, recognizing that long-term outcomes will be the hardest to measure. Vicki noted that our work coincides with the CIC measuring outcomes plan. Elisabeth mentioned that the City of London has a business plan for LIP (which they have in all areas) and it measures new partnerships in across-sector issues facilitated through LMLIP. Advocacy Lauren reported on behalf of the Task Group, exploring three key areas: Considering options of presenting to the Thames Valley District Ria and Elisabeth will continue to connect with the Immigration Portal to enhance the LMLIP webpage. Strategies on traditional and social media will be brought forward for further discussion in September. Updates from this meeting and subsequent work will be shared in September. Task group will continue recording activities supported by staff and will plan for measuring longterm outcomes. Staff will continue to do background research and the 5

43 School Board Accommodation Review Committee regarding the possible Lorne Ave. school closure (with implications for Ross Secondary in the future, as well) A work group from the Health & Wellbeing Sub-council is mapping interpretation work services that will help guide the work of the advocacy task group in identifying gaps in the system Given that community engagement is important in influencing policy change, the group is considering making use of community event to educate on policy issues pertaining to immigrants Welcoming Communities Initiative (WCI) Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council awarded a seven-year partnership grant to WCI called Pathways to Prosperity with Vicki as co-investigator for Ontario. The $2.5 million grant will support settlement and integration of immigrants. Vicki also reminded Council to continuously engage students from the Migration and Ethnic Relations in Western University in community work. Huda thanked Vicki for connecting LMLIP to the program with some students joining the sub-councils. group will connect with community partners. The task group will reconvene in August to discuss next steps and will bring forward a recommendation related to a event. 5. New Business Photo of the current LMLIP Council was taken with the assistance of David Grand. 6. Co-Chair s Closing Summary and Review of Action Items. Kelly thanked the Council and invited everyone for a social for the rest of the evening. The Council will not meet in the summer and resume in September. Photo will be available on the Immigration Portal as part of the planned enhancements. 6

44 7. Adjourn Meeting adjourned at 6:00 pm. 8. Next Meeting Location and Date September 24, 2012, 5:00 pm 7:00 pm Location: TBA 7

45 Agenda Central Council Date and Time: September 24, :00 6:30 pm Meeting Location: Room 4, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 20 Granville Street Time Item Description 5:00 5:30 5:35 5:40 5:45 Networking and Light Supper Co-Chairs Opening Remarks Elisabeth/Kelly Adoption of Previous Minutes June 25, 2012 Additions to Agenda I. Updates and Actions from Previous Business A. Advocacy i. Letter to Thames Valley District School Board Accommodation Review Committee (Information) - Huda ii. LMLIP Community Day Themes and Objectives (Information/Discussion) - Corinne B. LMLIP Communication Strategy (Information) Ria C. Recruitment Task Group (Information/Approval) Lauren 1

46 6:05 II. Sub-councils Progress Report (Information/Feedback) 6:20 III. a. Education - Muriel b. Employment - Anne c. Health & Wellbeing - Corinne d. Inclusion & Civic Engagement - Valy e. Justice & Protection Services - Yahya f. Settlement - Mohamed Welcoming Communities Initiative Vicki 6:25 6:30 Co-Chairs Closing Summary and Review of Action Items Elisabeth/Kelly Adjourn Next Meeting Location and Date: October 29, 2012, 5:00 pm 6:30 pm Room 4, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 2

47 Minutes Central Council Meeting Location: Room 4, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 20 Granville Street Date and Time: September 24, 2012, 5:00 pm 6:30 pm Present: Muriel Abbott, Mohamed Al-Adeimi, Shamara Baidoobonso, Jean-Simon Cantin, Vicki Esses, Huda Hussein, Anne Langille, Shawn Luo, Valy Marochko, Kelly McManus, Dev Sainani, German Gutierrez-Sanin, Lauren Touchant, Corinne Walsh, Elisabeth White, Ria Urbi Regrets: Naeem Qureshi, Jo-Ann Hutchison Absent: Ahmed Yahya Ali Item Description Information, Update, Action, Lead and Due Date 1. Co-Chair s Opening Remarks: Elisabeth welcomed the Council from the summer, with a note that meeting format has changed and time is shortened to allow for more focused meetings. Council Resignation Kelly informed that Henri resigned from Council as of September 24, Henri is one of its inaugural members. Council recognized Henri s work in the community and his contributions to LMLIP. LIPs Working Group Update Elisabeth shared an update on the June 27 LIPs Working Group. Elisabeth represents London, Hamilton and Windsor. The LIP Working Group is formed to provide feedback to the federal and provincial governments on immigration issues. It is also a means for us to be aware of what other LIPs are doing. The group committed to another teleconference this fall. Thank You note to be sent to Henri. Elisabeth will provide an update in a future meeting. 1

48 2. Adoption of Previous Minutes Motion to approve the June 25, 2012 Minutes as circulated was moved by Dev, seconded by Mohamed and approved. 3. Additions to Agenda Announcement from the Middlesex London Health Unit - Muriel 4. Updates and Actions from Previous Business Advocacy Letter to Thames Valley District School Board Accommodation Review Committee (TVDBS ARC) Huda informed that the written response regarding the potential closure of Lorne Avenue Public School was sent and received by TVDSB ARC. The letter listed key points that the committee may consider in deciding the future of the school including: impact of moving the adult immigrant learners to different schools (implications of location no longer being available and ease and comfort of access in alternative locations), how it will affect the relationships they have with their community and other ethno-cultural groups, and given the points above, the potential disruption of the whole settlement process The letter was included as correspondence in the next meeting of ARC. Elisabeth thanked Advocacy Work Group for their work. A copy of the letter was also shared with Council. Advocacy LMLIP Community Day Corinne provided the group s recommendations for a community day in March 2013 to educate our community on issues that impact our immigrant communities. Suggested themes were: Celebrate our Community s Achievement Diversity Medical: Community s response to the new Interim Federal Health Coverage for Refugees Attraction and Retention: Economic Growth (International Students our future citizens) Employment issue 2

49 There was a discussion on the piece on international students. Group is considering sharing the report by the Advisory Panel on Canada s International Education Strategy led by Western President Amit Chakma. The report highlights the benefits of attracting international students to Canada. While the report is economic-focused, Anne also noted the importance of highlighting the benefits of international students to the community. Vicki noted the she and Kelly will connect with the Vice Provost, International, Western University to talk about how international students university students can be linked to the community German suggested to also get in touch with Kim Checetto, director of the ESL Institute, Fanshawe College Mohamed noted that a community day will further connect with the community. Kelly thanked Council for their suggestions and noted that LMLIP will act as connector for a strategic conversation on a topic that will weave aspects of economics, policy-change and community readiness. Kelly thanked the work group and staff for bringing some ideas forward. Group will continue to think about the audience and who we need to be connected with in preparation for the community day. Group will provide an update in next meeting. LMLIP Communication Strategy Ria informed that three pieces on the communication strategy have moved forward: the website, traditional media and social media. Immigration Portal A web developer is working closely with staff to develop a new layout for the LMLIP website. We are also coordinating with Jennifer MacArthur, City of London to ensure that the recommendations are within the resources and fits with the overall design of the new portal. New layout will be shared at a future Council meeting. Traditional media Consulted with Communication Department, City of London for tips on engaging the media which includes an editorial meeting. Task group is planning to engage the London Free Press, Londoner and Rogers as first steps. We also partnered with Pillar Nonprofit Network for a TV appearance on MOSAIC to talk about LMLIP and highlight a few projects. Representatives from LMLIP were Huda, Dev, Susanna Gergich (Inclusion & Civic Engagement) and Katy Boychuk (Health & Wellbeing Sub-council, Seeds of Change Project) 3

50 Social Media Social media policy was drafted. Anne offered the assistance of WIL s lawyer to review the policy and is in its final stages of review. Once final, a Twitter account will be launched as pilot. Recruitment Task Group Lauren noted that the group received two applications from the Iraqi community. The group reviewed the applications and based on the information provided by the applicants, recommended not to followthrough with the applications. The group received two phone calls from interested individuals this morning. With Henri s resignation, there is another opening for a member-atlarge. There was a discussion whether Council is missing representation from a specific age range or ethno-cultural background, or if there is a need for a particular skill set. However, it was decided to make a general call-out to the community versus a targeted recruitment. Lauren requested for volunteers to join this group. Sub-council Progress Report Education Muriel noted that Support for Teachers work group is exploring the idea of a position paper that will support increased training opportunities for teachers in multilingual classrooms. Muriel asked Council to forward any article or reading that will help support their arguments. The Support for Parents work group is also preparing for the On New Shores Conference on October 15. Muriel will use this opportunity to not only present the Welcoming All Voices resource but also provide an overview of LMLIP and the Education Sub-council to an audience of academics and community developers from the US and Canada. Muriel will share the presentation to Council. Employment Anne informed that the education and employment sub-councils are scheduled to meet and identify areas for collaboration. Group will also move forward with developing the flowchart on job-seeking process and will develop a social media strategy for disseminating the LMIEC advertisements on mentoring. Anne also shared that LMIEC also submitted two applications to Citizenship and Immigration Canada regarding employer engagement and immigrant entrepreneurship. Council will be updated electronically before the next meeting. Valy and Shamara volunteered to join the work group. Muriel will send an electronic copy of the presentation to staff to be circulated to Council. 4

51 Health and Wellbeing Corinne gave an update on the Accessibility to Interpretation Services work group. Community partners have been invited to the table and group is looking at developing a directory of existing interpretation services for dissemination to healthcare providers, support agencies and other stakeholders/targeted populations. Group will also develop evidence based recommendations to provide direction regarding when to access interpretation, and policy and procedure recommendations for agencies using interpretation services. Inclusion and Civic Engagement Valy informed that the video developed by the Neighbourhood Action work group was shared with Sub-council for the first time. It was well done and well received by the group. A DVD launch is planned for late October or November. Media will be invited to the event. The work group that delivered the June 26 Immigrant and Refugee Community Leadership Conversation is also planning for follow-up activities including a networking event and an opportunity to engage the media at the DVD launch. Justice and Protection Services Huda informed that the funding for the Immigrant Community Capacity Engagement Project is approved by the Ontario Trillium Foundation. Two project workers from the Karen and Vietnamese communities will start on October 1 st. Settlement Mohamed shared that the Family Settlement Collaborative is moving forward with their work and includes partners from across sectors. The target audience for the workshop is newcomers within 6-8 months of arrival. LMLIP staff worked with the LINC teacher to develop the schedule of the workshops in the LINC Program of South London Community Centre from September 2012 to March The work group on Engaging Landlords and Tenants is also working on a presentation to educate landlords and tenants. The group has started to connect with landlords. Mohamed requested Council to inform him if they have contacts with any landlord(s) in London. Welcoming Communities Initiative Vicki informed that WCI will be transitioning into the Pathways to Prosperity Project. A new website will be launched in October A Pathways e-bulletin will also be launched. Vicki informed about telephone interpreters in Regina as another option in increasing access to interpretation services. Corinne will forward this information to the work group. 5

52 5. New Business Muriel distributed The Path to Healthy Living pamphlet. It outlines Middlesex- London Health Unit s strategic plan for Co-Chair s Closing Summary and Review of Action Items. Elisabeth thanked Council for their work. Elisabeth reminded of requests made by Council members in the meeting including: Articles and readings re: teaching in multilingual classroom Ideas for community day The recruitment task group will also provide information to Council regarding potential candidates for members-at-large. 7. Adjourn Meeting adjourned at 6:30 pm. 8. Next Meeting Location and Date October 29, 2012, 5:00 pm 6:30 pm Location: Room 4, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 6

53 Agenda LMLIP Central Council Date and Time: October 29, :00 6:30 pm Meeting Location: Room 4, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 20 Granville Street Time Item Description 5:00 5:30 5:35 5:40 5:40 Networking and Light Supper Co-Chairs Opening Remarks Elisabeth/Kelly Adoption of Previous Minutes September 24, 2012 Additions to Agenda I. Updates and Actions from Previous Business A. Advocacy Task Group (Information/Discussion) Vicki LMLIP Community Event B. LMLIP Communication Strategy (Information) Dev Londoner Rogers TV C. Recruitment Task Group (Information) Lauren 6:00 II. Highlights from Sub-councils (Information/Discussion) a. LMLIP Education Sub-council Muriel 1

54 b. LMLIP Employment Sub-council Anne c. LMLIP Health & Wellbeing Sub-council - Corinne d. LMLIP Inclusion & Civic Engagement Sub-council Andrea e. LMLIP Justice & Protection Services Sub-council Yahya f. LMLIP Settlement Sub-council Mohamed 6:10 Ontario s Expert Roundtable On Immigration Report (Information/Discussion) - Huda 6:20 6:25 6:30 Pathways to Prosperity Project Vicki Co-Chairs Closing Summary and Review of Action Items Elisabeth/Kelly Adjourn Next Meeting Location and Date: November 26, 2012, 5:00 pm 6:30 pm Room 4, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 2

55 Minutes LMLIP Central Council Meeting Location: Room 4, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 20 Granville Street Date and Time: October 29, 2012, 5:00 pm 6:30 pm Present: Muriel Abbott, Ahmed Yahya Ali, Shamara Baidoobonso, Vicki Esses, Huda Hussein, Kelly McManus, Dev Sainani, German Gutierrez- Sanin, Corinne Walsh, Saad Aldin, Elisabeth White, Ria Urbi Regrets: Mohamed Al-Adeimi, Jean-Simon Cantin, Jo-Ann Hutchison, Anne Langille, Shawn Luo, Valy Marochko, Naeem Qureshi, Lauren Touchant Absent: None Guests: Barbara Milanovic (Citizenship and Immigration Canada), Phillipa Myers (LMLIP Education Sub-council, Jessie Rodger (United Way London & Middlesex) Item Description Information, Update, Action, Lead and Due Date 1. Co-Chair s Opening Remarks: Kelly welcomed Saad, new member-at-large on LMLIP Central Council. Saad emigrated from Iraq and arrived in Canada in 1999 with a degree in Statistics. He also holds Master s degree in Math from the University of Waterloo and PhD in Engineering from Western University. He currently works as Business Manager in London Health Sciences Centre. Kelly also welcomed Phillipa Myers, Vice Chair of the LMLIP Education Sub-council. Phillipa is also affiliated with the Child and Youth Network. 1

56 She is present in the meeting today to learn and observe. Kelly welcomed Barbara Milanovic, Project Officer, Citizenship & Immigration Canada to observe the meeting. Lastly, Kelly introduced Jessie, intern at United Way London & Middlesex. She is a student at Wilfred Laurier University (Social Work) and also joining in the meeting to learn and observe. Elisabeth requested Council to always refer to LMLIP when referring to the Sub-councils. This ensures that the LMLIP brand remains connected to the work that is being done in the Sub-councils. Elisabeth also informed that as the representative for London, Hamilton and Windsor in the LIP working group, she provided input to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) in the development of the LIP Annual Performance Report. This will be used by CIC to measure outcomes for LIPs and is connected to the Logic Model. Kelly asked Council to sign the Photography, Videotape Permission Form of the City of London. This is consent for photos and citations of individuals affiliated with LMLIP whose related information will be accessible on the London & Middlesex Immigration Portal. 2. Adoption of Previous Minutes Motion to approve the September 24, 2012 Minutes as circulated was moved by Dev, seconded by Shamara and approved. 3. Additions to Agenda None For sharing with LMLIP Central Council in a future meeting. 4. Updates and Actions from Previous Business Advocacy Task Group LMLIP Community Event Vicki provided an update regarding the planning for the March 27, 2013 LMLIP Community Event. Vicki reiterated that the event is a celebration of what the community has been doing to support newcomers and how we can further leverage our resources. The themes include: Policy changes and how they impact our community Recognizing the major efforts in our community to attract and retain immigrants International Students: Our Future Citizens o Coordinating with our partners for Dr. Amit Chakma and Dr. Howard Rundle of Western University and Fanshawe 2

57 College respectively, to speak at the event o Will continue to work with post-secondary institutions to explore how students can be linked to the community Responding to the health needs of immigrants o Inform how the community is responding to changes in health policies affecting newcomers and immigrants Share and learn from St. John s Newfoundland promising practices Economic/Employment o Task group is exploring ideas Council provided feedback to Vicki: In connection to community responses to policy changes, Muriel mentioned that when the Interim Federal Health Coverage task group (lead by Middlesex-London Health Unit) contacted different agencies about what and how they offered services to refugees, it caused some of them to revisit their own policies and procedures to develop more clarity about eligibility. Shamara mentioned that there could be other health services and population health researchers who can provide additional insight about health and health care access among immigrants. Shamara offered to connect Vicki to researchers in University of Toronto and University of Ottawa. Phillipa raised the concern that the themes might come across as academic. Kelly mentioned that the event will not only include speakers but will also try to engage the audience through a panel discussion. Kelly also recommended that since the event coincides with the end of the third year of implementing the Community Immigrant Strategic Plan, this might also be an opportunity to validate what we, as a community, have achieved thus far, as well endorse the future direction we envision for LMLIP. LMLIP Communication Strategy Dev informed that the multimedia task group met with various media organizations to help them get a better sense of immigration in our community today. This is a follow-up to an earlier strategy by the group to provide media literacy training to ethno-cultural groups to increase Task group will continue to work on the details of the event and will keep Council connected. Closer to the date, Council will be asked to share the information with their networks. The task group will continue to meet with other 3

58 immigrant visibility in multimedia channels. Engaging the media would help them become more aware of the issues experienced by newcomers and immigrants, and also help media to be prepared when they get requests from ethno-cultural groups for media coverage. Dev shared that reception from the Londoner and Rogers TV was positive. Londoner supported LMLIP in the past and will continue to do so. They asked for specific stories, particularly immigrant s stories from LMLIP that they can write about Rogers TV is a community channel and as such, our work in LMLIP resonates with their mandate. Their programming is available in different languages and features different cultures. They expressed support to promote understanding between the host and immigrant communities Recruitment Task Group Shamara informed that the Expression of Interest for member-atlarge was revised by the group. It is currently in circulation to ethnocultural groups and will be shared with Networking for an Inclusive Community (NIC). Sub-council Progress Report Education Supporting Parents - Muriel shared that she presented the Welcoming All Voices Resource Guide at the On New Shores Conference in Toronto on October 25 and it was well-received by the audience. It was noted that LMLIP is the only Local Immigration Partnership (LIP) to present in this conference and LMLIP information was also included in her presentation. The conference was well attended by individuals from Canada, United States and Europe working in academia and community development. Elisabeth thanked Muriel for her leadership. Supporting Teachers - An was sent to Ontario LIPs regarding collaboration on a position paper for diversity training of Pre-service Teachers directed to the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU). So far, Ottawa, York, and Peterborough expressed interest. This will be taken up again by Huda in an upcoming meeting of media channels and explore opportunities to partner with media. 4

59 Southwestern Ontario LIPs on November 2, LMLIP Employment No update available. LMLIP Health and Wellbeing Corinne informed that the Access to Interpretation work group will be holding a group discussion on November 8 to gain a better understanding of the experiences of non-english speakers accessing interpretation services. The information from this will be used to develop an inventory of interpretation services, as well help in identifying needs and gaps. Shamara suggested including social/support workers from Regional HIV/AIDS Connection. They work with clients from small immigrant communities in London who need interpretation services. As such, they would be able to provide feedback on how immigrants needing interpretation services can be better supported. LMLIP Inclusion Civic Engagement Huda informed that the launching of London: A Newcomer s Story is set on November 21, 10:15 a.m. at Goodwill Industries. Council was asked to save the date. The video highlights stories of newcomers from Afghanistan, Bosnia, Bhutan, El Salvador, Iraq and Liberia. Elisabeth recognized the partnership of LMLIP, London Strengthening Neighbourhoods Strategy and the London & Middlesex Immigration Portal who collaborated to deliver this resource to the community. An invitation will be sent to the Council. LMLIP Justice and Protection Services Yahya shared that two part-time staff were hired, oriented and would start outreach activities to the Karen and Vietnamese communities next week for the Immigrant Community Capacity Engagement Project. LMLIP Settlement Huda shared that in October, the Family Settlement Collaborative delivered two targeted workshops to the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada to students in South London Neighbourhood Resource Centre - (Middlesex- London Health Unit and ACFO de London Sarnia). The Landlord Engaging Group is finalizing their presentation to engage landlords and tenants and, on behalf of Mohamed, Huda asked Council to refer contacts of landlords that they are connected with, if any. Pathways to Prosperity Project Vicki shared a couple of updates on the project: Newsletter was released Continue working on measuring outcomes for LIPs Undergoing project in Alberta which involved surveying 5

60 immigrants using settlement services Evaluating best practices in Ontario s bridging programs (healthcare professions) Currently circulating ideas for national projects and requesting feedback Vicki will be attending a conference in Geneva, Switzerland on welcoming communities. It will be a meeting of 17 different countries and Vicki will be talking about LIPs in Canada to highlight the need of communities to be involved. 5. New Business Ontario s Expert Roundtable Discussion on Immigration Report Huda discussed the draft outlining recommendations to be taken into consideration in the next planning sessions of LMLIP, taking into account what we have achieved thus far with our Community Immigrant Strategic Plan, existing efforts by our community partners and recommendations brought forward by Ontario s Expert Roundtable. Kelly thanked Huda for preparing the draft document. Some comments provided by Council members: Shamara mentioned that regarding attraction and retention of immigrants, there are some issues with the Ontario Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Shamara is connected with the international students at Western University and learned that for those who applied to the PNP, the process takes a lot of time and causes some of the students to move into other provinces. Shamara asked if this can be considered as an advocacy for LMLIP in the future to urge the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration to rethink the status quo. Elisabeth mentioned that this is good information that can be brought to the LIP working group. German noted that recommendations from the Roundtable definitely connect with our work in LMLIP. 6. Co-Chair s Closing Summary and Review of Action Items. Elisabeth thanked Council for their contributions and reminded to save the date on: November 21, 2012 at 10:15 am for the launch of London: A Newcomer s Story video March 27, 2012 for LMLIP Community Event 6

61 7. Adjourn Meeting adjourned at 6:30 pm. 8. Next Meeting Location and Date November 26, 2012, 5:00 pm 6:30 pm Location: Room 4, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 7

62 Agenda LMLIP Central Council Date and Time: November 26, :00 6:30 pm Meeting Location: Room 4, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 20 Granville Street Time Item Description 5:00 5:30 5:45 Networking and Light Supper Presentation: Research on Immigrant Services in London - Jennifer Long Co-Chairs Opening Remarks Elisabeth/Kelly Update on System Partners Meeting Update on DVD Launch 5:55 6:00 6:00 Adoption of Previous Minutes October 29, 2012 Additions to Agenda I. Updates and Actions from Previous Business A. Advocacy and Outreach Task Group (Information/Discussion) Vicki LMLIP Community Event B. LMLIP Communication Strategy (Information) Ria 1. Social Media 2. Media Partnerships 3. Immigration Portal 1

63 C. Recruitment Task Group (Information/Approval) Lauren II. Highlights from Sub-councils (Information/Discussion) a. LMLIP Education Sub-council Muriel b. LMLIP Employment Sub-council Anne c. LMLIP Health and Wellbeing Sub-council - Corinne d. LMLIP Inclusion and Civic Engagement Sub-council Valy e. LMLIP Justice and Protection Services Sub-council Yahya f. LMLIP Settlement Sub-council Mohamed 6:15 6:20 6:25 6:30 Pathways to Prosperity Project Vicki Ontario s Immigration Strategy Huda Co-Chairs Closing Summary and Review of Action Items Elisabeth/Kelly Adjourn Next Meeting Location and Date: January 28, 2013, 5:00 pm 6:30 pm Room 4, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 2

64 Minutes LMLIP Central Council Meeting Location: Room 4, Kinsmen Recreation Centre 20 Granville Street Date and Time: November 26, 2012, 5:00 pm 6:30 pm Present: Muriel Abbott, Mohamed Al-Adeimi, Ahmed Yahya Ali, Shamara Baidoobonso, Vicki Esses, Huda Hussein, Anne Langille, Shawn Luo, Valy Marochko, Kelly McManus, Naeem Qureshi, Dev Sainani, German Gutierrez- Sanin, Lauren Touchant, Ria Urbi, Corinne Walsh, Elisabeth White Regrets: Saad Aldin, Jean-Simon Cantin, Jo-Ann Hutchison Absent: None Guests: Dr. Jennifer Long (Centre for Research on Migration & Ethnic Relations, Western University) Item Description 1. Presentation Jennifer Long Kelly introduced Dr. Jennifer Long who gave a presentation on Optimizing the Delivery of Programs to Newcomers through Targeted, Mixed, and Universal Services which is a study of newcomer clients and service providers perceptions of targeted, mixed and universal services and the differences and similarities among them. Jennifer is a researcher from the Centre for Research on Migration and Ethnic Relations, Western University. This project was developed in collaboration with United Way London & Middlesex and made possible through United Way funding and a Mitacs Accelerate Program. Information, Update, Action, Lead and Due Date Ria will circulate the presentation to Council. Themes from the research will continue to guide future discussion with the Central Council. 1

65 Kelly recognized that some of the Council members are experts in the field or are immigrants who have accessed services themselves. In sharing the report, it was the intent to advance our knowledge about needs and gaps on immigrant services. 2. Co-Chair s Opening Remarks: Elisabeth provided an update on the November 20 th meeting with System Partners, LMLIP Co-Chairs and staff. Elisabeth noted the synergy among the attendees: London Police Services St. Joseph s Care London Middlesex-London Health Unit City of London London Economic Development Corporation London District Catholic School Board Thames Valley District School Board Conseil scolaire de district du Centre-Sud-Ouest Conseil scolaire de district des écoles catholiques du Sud-Ouest Kelly noted that system partners are inherently connected with LMLIP Sub-councils through the multiple, intersecting themes they address. Given this, there is opportunity to take advocacy work to the next level. There was interest from the system partners to convene again in the future. Elisabeth also informed about the successful launch of London: A Newcomer s Story last November 21 st. The event received positive coverage from print media, as well some encouraging responses from the community. Elisabeth thanked the LMLIP Inclusion & Civic Engagement Sub-council for their work. Members can request for a DVD copy from staff. The video can also be accessed on the Immigration Portal. 3. Adoption of Previous Minutes Motion to approve the October 29, 2012 Minutes as circulated was moved by Dev, seconded by German and approved. 4. Additions to Agenda None 2

66 5. Updates and Actions from Previous Business Advocacy Task Group LMLIP Community Event Medical Theme - Vicki informed that she contacted the family physician from Memorial University who worked with medical students to obtain medical history of newcomers. Vicki invited the physician to share their experience from Memorial University and the physician expressed interest. Keynote Speaker Vicki suggested connecting with Ratna Omidvar, President of Maytree. Anne thought that Naomi Alboim will also be a good speaker. Anne appreciated her research on recent changes in Canadian immigration policies and believes she is also a realistic speaker who shows ownership wherever she goes. International Students Western University President Amit Chakma is confirmed to speak in the event. Vicki will follow-up regarding the physician s participation in the event. Group will continue to explore the options for keynote speaker as topics are firmed up. Economic Theme Group will discuss with Robert Collins, London Economic Development Corporation and Grant Hopcroft, Director of Intergovernmental and Community Liaison, City of London to identify what to include in the event from the economic side. LMLIP Communication Strategy Ria provided an update on three pieces on the communication strategy that have moved forward. Social Media LMLIP is now on Twitter with the Twitter At three weeks, we now have a following of 70. We have been sharing information related to immigration, our work (such as promoting the DVD launch) and interacting with our partners. Traditional Media Multimedia task group most recently met with the London Free Press who printed a full-page spread about the launch of London: A Newcomer s Story. Other print media such as the Londoner and Metro also gave us positive media coverage citing the DVD launch. Group will meet again to discuss opportunities to partner with media, including Rogers TV who was very open in collaborating with us. Dev mentioned that in a previous meeting, Rogers TV requested support in providing alternative language programming and ideas for a show from the ethno-cultural community. German offered Group will provide recommendations in the next Council meeting. 3

67 to suggest some ideas. Immigration Portal The enhancements on the LMLIP area on the Immigration Portal are completed. The LMLIP webpage can now be accessed with a shortened URL with an interface that is more engaging, user-friendly and organized. Ria thanked staff from the City of London and London Cross Cultural Centre (CCLC) for helping with the project. Kelly encouraged Council members to visit the site and also thanked staff for leading this work. Recruitment Task Group Lauren informed that the group received three applications and decided to recommend Grace Johnson, taking into consideration her capacity to attend all meetings and her experience as a job developer. Lauren s request for a motion to endorse Grace s application to the LMLIP Central Council, was moved by German, seconded by Naeem and approved. Lauren also announced her resignation from the Council citing personal reasons. Kelly thanked Lauren for all her contributions to LMLIP and the community. With Lauren s resignation, this leaves a vacancy in the Central Council and group agreed to make a targeted recruitment to the Francophone community. Kelly also recommended Saad to take Lauren s place in the Recruitment task group. Mohamed also volunteered to join the group. Sub-council Progress Report LMLIP Education Sub-council Support for Parents Group is planning to participate in two more presentations next year: Leadership Conference and Ontario Federation Home Schools Association Conference. Support for Teachers Group will complete the position paper regarding equity, inclusion and diversity training of pre-service teachers addressed to the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities by the end of November. Muriel noted that the group called upon the Ministry to mandate the completion of at least one course in equity, inclusion and diversity studies as requirement for all pre-service teachers for graduation. Group collaborated with Peterborough Partnership Council on Huda will circulate an Expression of Interest to the Francophone community and ask Saad about joining the Recruitment Task Group. 4

68 Immigrant Integration while other Local Immigration Partnerships will possibly endorse the position paper. LMLIP Employment Sub-council Joint Employment/Education Sub-council Collaboration Anne noted that this group was formed recognizing that information between the two sectors (supply/demand of labour) is not connected. In the first meeting, it was agreed that: o WIL Employment Connections and Access Centre for Regulated Employment (ACRE) will share their intake/registration forms with LMLIP Education Sub-council to inform about the data collection involved in immigrant employment programs. The idea is to ensure that both o sides are collecting consistent information. Group will be connected with London Market Knowledge Information System (LMKIS) of London Economic Development Corporation which is a project for the timely access to local labour market information of both jobseekers and employers. Representatives from the education sector will be invited to provide feedback. Flowchart on Job-seeking Process Group is working on the flowchart which will show where the immigrants are in the jobseeking process and next steps. The idea is that immigrant jobseekers will be informed how to move in the system. Group is working on both the content and technical aspects of the flowchart. City of London is an active participant. Social Media Campaign Ongoing Anne will send forms to Muriel for circulation to members. Anne will send minutes of the meeting to Muriel. Sheila Carson from Adult ESL/LINC in Thames Valley District School Board will also be contacted for the involvement of the education sector in the project. LMLIP Health and Wellbeing Sub-council Corinne s written progress report was distributed to the group. LMLIP Inclusion Civic Engagement Sub-council Valy noted that the group s recent focus was the launch of the DVD London: A Newcomer s Story led by Janice Walter and brainstorming for the next steps of the immigrant leadership group. LMLIP Justice and Protection Services Sub-council Yahya shared a few updates provided by Taghrid Hussain, Coordinator of the Immigrant Community Capacity Engagement Project: Completed first focus group with the Vietnamese community. Five individuals participated Recruited four volunteers from Vietnamese community and three from Karen community 5

69 Partnering with LUSO SWIS workers, Northbrae Community Hub, Beacock Library, etc. to engage Vietnamese and Karen immigrants residing in the area LMLIP Settlement Sub-council Engaging Landlords & Tenants - Work group presented the Powerpoint presentation to the LMLIP Settlement Sub-council. Group is updating their material based on the feedback and will have one presentation delivered by January Group worked with Community Legal Services at Western University who reviewed the material. Group is now looking at different options how to distribute the resource to inform newcomer tenants and landlords. Supporting Seniors Mohamed noted that the work group comprised of CCLC, City of London and South London Neighbourhood Centre drafted an inventory of programs and services currently being offered to multicultural seniors. The final version will be uploaded on the Immigration Portal and links to the service providers will be included. Vicki offered to map the information from the inventory. Mohamed thanked and welcomed the support. Family Settlement Collaborative Workshops continue to be delivered to students of Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC). Information from evaluation from completed workshops is being collated and would be shared with Council once available. Pathways to Prosperity Project Vicki announced that a new Welcome to Canada guide will soon be available. It contains general information about settlement and links to important resources. Mohamed and Vicki will connect regarding mapping the inventory of programs and services. Vicki will share with the Council once available. 6

70 6. New Business Ontario Immigration Strategy Huda noted that the Ontario Immigration Strategy builds on the recommendations outlined in the Ontario's Expert Roundtable on Immigration shared at the last Central Council meeting. The three objectives of the strategy are: Attracting a skilled workforce and building a stronger economy Helping newcomers and their families achieve success Leveraging the global connections of our diverse communities Huda shared highlights of the strategy and noted that the LIP working group was consulted in the development of the recommendations. 7. Co-Chair s Closing Summary and Review of Action Items. Elisabeth thanked and congratulated everyone for their achievements and reminded that there will be no meeting in December and will resume in January of next year. Elisabeth wished everyone a happy holiday season. 8. Adjourn Meeting adjourned at 6:30 pm. 9. Next Meeting Location and Date January, , 5:00 pm 6:30 pm Location: Kiwanis Conference Room Funded by: Financé par: Co-led by: 7