The AWCM Spring Newsletter brings you Community Picnics, and much more! Check out the AWCM's exciting upcoming activities and events, and see highlights from our past events. The French version will be released soon! |
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Main Events in July and August See information below |
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COMMUNITY PICNIC.......................................................AUGUST 9, 2023 COLLECTIVE KITCHEN BREAKFAST.............................SEPTEMBER 11, 2023 MENTAL HEALTH WORKSHOPS....................................SEPTEMBER 11, 2023 |
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Eid al-Adha – The Feast of Sacrifice, 28th of June |
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This celebration is one of new beginnings and of departing from what is easy or familiar. In many ways Eid Al-Adha connects people who feel far from their culture and it is one of the events among Muslim people that provides connection and brings peace and forgiveness for any pain or concerns in the past. The AWCM was delighted to celebrate Eid Al-Adha alongside members and newly arrived women. Activities included sharing traditional delicious Afghan finger-foods. On this joyous occasion, putting Henna on the hand of young girls, historically celebrates the joy of living a full and beautiful life. The AWCM was very happy to provide Henna for the ladies, to celebrate their lives with these traditions. Showcasing beautiful hand-made Afghan jewellery was a wonderful addition to the festivities. The ladies discussed their thoughts and memories of Eid celebrations in their home country, and enjoyed beautiful music, danced, and laughed together. |
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Montreal Moving Day, 1st week of July |
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In Quebec, the first week of July marks a significant event known as Moving Day, when many renters either renew their leases or relocate to new residences. It is a customary sight to find various items, such as furniture, appliances, electronics, and household goods, placed along the streets. To ensure these items find new homes and reduce waste, several organizations take charge of collecting, sanitizing, repairing, and refurbishing them. This initiative plays a vital role in providing affordable options for newcomers to settle into the vibrant city of Montreal. This presents an excellent opportunity for newly arrived individuals to acquire essential items for their new homes at budget-friendly prices. Whether it is a cozy couch, a reliable appliance, or other household necessities, these items can greatly assist in creating a comfortable and welcoming living environment. We encourage you to embrace the spirit of sustainability and affordability as you settle into your new home and immerse yourself in the dynamic culture of the city. |
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Canada Day Parade, 1st of July |
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Afghan communities across Montreal proudly showcased their presence and celebrated their lives in Canada by actively participating in the lively Canada Day Parade. It was a powerful display of Afghan visibility in our diverse city. By joining the parade, these communities not only highlighted their rich cultural heritage, but also conveyed a meaningful message about the significance of inclusivity and unity. The presence of Afghan communities in the Canada Day Parade signified joy and excitement and shed light on the resilience and strength of newly arrived individuals finding a new home in Canada. This celebration of Afghan and refugee visibility served as an opportunity to appreciate diversity and foster understanding among different cultures. |
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Collective Kitchen Breakfast, 2nd week of September CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO REGISTER by July 28th |
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The AWCM is delighted to announce our continued collaboration with Food Security in the Peter McGill district to offer collective kitchen breakfasts. These free breakfasts will occur twice in the month of July, and provide the opportunity to enjoy delicious traditional Afghan food while learning about the significance of food security on mental and physical health. The intergenerational collaboration fosters meaningful connections between seniors and younger generations, further strengthening intergenerational community bonds at the AWCM. Through these collective kitchen breakfasts, the AWCM is so grateful for the opportunity to work in collaboration with Peter McGill to offer valuable support to community members. The breakfast includes vegetarian and halal options! 1857 boul. Maisonneuve ouest, starting 2nd week of September |
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Mental Health Workshops, 2nd week of September CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO REGISTER by July 28th |
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The AWCM is thrilled to present our transformative mental health workshops designed to help individuals navigate the challenges of integrating into a new and unfamiliar society, far away from their home countries. Through these workshops, members come together to connect and openly share their personal experiences, whether they be joyful or worrisome, positive or negative. Our primary objective is to create a safe space for active listening and mutual support. Within this nurturing workshop environment, participants acquire valuable skills to recognize positive and negative triggers, identify personal needs, and effectively manage the unique challenges they may encounter while flourishing in their new society. 1857 boul. Maisonneuve ouest, starting 2nd week of September |
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Community Picnic, 9th of August CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO REGISTER |
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Join the Afghan Women's Centre for our highly anticipated annual community picnic! Spend a delightful afternoon basking in the sunshine, surrounded by our vibrant members and newly arrived individuals. This event promises fun, celebration, and connection.
Indulge in a delicious feast of authentic Afghan cuisine, lovingly prepared to share with the community while soaking up the warmth of the sunshine in Parc Lavois Vaudreuil Dorion. Immerse yourself in the joyful atmosphere as we play games and listen to stories shared by our community. This picnic is not only an opportunity to enjoy a delightful afternoon; it is a chance to foster friendships, embrace diversity, and build a stronger, more inclusive community. So mark your calendars and join us for this memorable event that celebrates Afghan culture, togetherness, and the spirit of unity.
Join us on August 9th in Parc Lavois Vaudreuil Dorion at noon!
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The AWCM is excited to share that the centre is expanding with a new office! We are proud to extend tailoring and embroidery services for members, and encourage members proficient in sewing to practice their skill with tailoring. We eventually intend to offer sewing lessons to continue to empower women and break social isolation. |
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Please note that the Centre will be closed during the summer time starting from August 14 until September 1 |
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ATTENTION Community Partners: The AWCM is always glad to promote the activities and events for our collaborative organizations. We encourage our community partners to share information about their important work with us, we are more than happy to include this in our newsletter. |
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Congratulations and Welcome! The AWCM is thrilled to welcome two new Board of Directors. |
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Tamara moved to Montreal when she was very young shortly after the Second World War. She has always had a strong sense of community and no prior knowledge of the languages. She studied English and French, social work, and counselling. She is strongly motivated to provide community support for newly arrived individuals facing some similar challenges, such as language barriers. Visit the website for more information about Tamara! |
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Sawsan is eager to contribute to the Afghan Women's Centre in our endeavor to aid refugees by providing assistance in the strategic organization of events, synchronizing various activities, and participating in the development of financial proposals for project funding. Visit the website for more information about Sawsan! |
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The AWCM is also pleased to welcome a new Administrative Assistant over the summer! |
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Reena is deeply committed to upholding human rights, especially among individuals with increased vulnerability. She is eager to support the AWCM in maximizing their protection of human, economic, and environmental rights, especially among racialized women, for a more just and sustainable world. |
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The AWCM is thrilled to provide laptops to the newly arrived in need. These digital tools are essential to complete administrative forms, access job opportunities, activities and online classes! |
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Administrative Assistance at the AWCM! |
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The AWCM is very grateful to offer administrative assistance for newly arrived individuals. This is necessary to access the job market and complete essential forms. We offer translation services in French and English and support individuals in navigating different systems. |
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WE ARE HIRING!The AWCM is looking for motivated individuals for the position of ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Please send your resume to info@awcm.ca Full-time, 30h/week contract OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE Understands copywriting and has the skills to prove it Understands social media strategies Proficient in graphic design Participates in the curation and development of our brand image in all written content Exceptional organizational skills, detail-oriented and capable of managing multiple projects while respecting deadlines
REQUIREMENTS Experience working in the non-profit sector an asset Experience in office administration is a requirement Previous experience in social media (Instagram & Facebook) Excellent writing and oral skills in both English & French Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office, and computer skills Bachelor's Degree in Political Science, Journalism, Gender Studies, International Studies, Communications and/or Marketing Excellent analytical skills
*Salary based on experience* |
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For our new members and beloved re-joining members, please remember to re-new your annual AWCM membership to access our services, events, and information sessions! Stay tuned for registration information. |
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Smoke and Air Quality in Montreal ATTENTION ALL MEMBERS: Due to the widespread wildfires affecting Quebec and the Greater Montreal Area, the air quality has significantly deteriorated. This poses a substantial risk, particularly for individuals with heart or respiratory conditions (such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis), asthma sufferers, seniors, and pregnant women. To mitigate these risks, it is strongly recommended that these individuals wear N95 masks, which the AWCM can provide upon request. The AWCM is dedicated to supporting our members during this challenging time and can assist with the provision of masks for those in need. Please prioritize your well-being and follow the recommended guidelines to safeguard your health and that of your loved ones. For further and up-to-date information, please refer to Montreal Health. |
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Class Schedule during the summer months |
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Group Yoga Classes All origins and ages welcome for monthly classes, which are free and open to AWCM members. Non-members are encouraged to become members. 1857, boulevard De Maisonneuve West, Montréal (Québec) |
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Online Class Schedule during summer months |
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French Course Wednesdays at 2 PM
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English Course Thurdays at 2 PM |
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Computer Course Mondays at 3 PM (Starts as of September) |
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To access the courses click the buttons below or manually enter the credentials on Zoom Zoom ID: 355 835 7628 Passcode: 548129 |
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