APLA Conference 2022

In rural communities across Prince Edward Island, the PEI Community Navigators work with communities, municipal representatives, and partners throughout the Island to help to bridge the gap between new and existing PEI residents.  Through partnerships with organizations like the Public Library system, the PEI Community Navigators host events that welcome newcomers to gather with existing residents in community, or focus on new residents by offering Canadian Culture specific events such as Easter Egg Hunts and Pumpkin Carving. Additional newcomer centered events include “Learn to Love Your Library” or English Conversation groups in order to connect newcomer residents such as temporary work permit holders and Permanent Residents with the resources that are available in their newfound community libraries.  The PEI Community Navigators are Settlement Providers, funded by the Federal Department of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada, who provide support and guidance for newcomers from outside of Canada with integration and resourcing.  In addition, The Province of PEI supports this initiative to include support to new residents from other parts of Canada, all with the goal of retaining our new residents to our rural communities. The PEI Community Navigators look forward to discussing best practices and showcasing successful events from previous partnerships, in order to engage and retain the new residents of rural communities in your province.