Notice Board

The Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs (SACPA) presents a session examining the systems and programs in place to help newcomers adapt to life in Lethbridge.

How may Lethbridge Newcomers be best served?

The settlement process for newcomers can pose challenges and barriers that must be overcome to achieve eventual and active full participation in the Lethbridge community.

“Serving newcomers" refers to providing settlement and support services to new immigrants and refugees to help them integrate into Canadian society. Services include language training, employment assistance, accommodation assistance, connecting with the community, helping with daily tasks and connecting with the resources available in Lethbridge.

In this presentation, the speakers will explain the different immigration categories and pathways, discuss some of the challenges and barriers newcomers face, and explain how best to assist them in overcoming these. Along the way, some common misconceptions about immigrants will also be discussed.

Speakers: John Lafferty, Najib Mangal and Gregory Rabus

John Lafferty is director of the Immigrant Services Department at Lethbridge Family Services, a department that offers a variety of settlement and integration programs for newcomers, immigrants and refugees.

Najib Mangal is program manager of the Community Connections and Employment Program at Immigrant Services at Lethbridge Family Services. He is also a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant.

Gregory Rabus is a Settlement and Community Supports Program Practitioner, who supports eligible temporary residents to adapt to life in Canada by providing access to information, language training, employment services and community connections.

Date/Time: Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025. The presentation begins at noon & concludes at 1 p.m.

Cost is free, donations however, are gratefully accepted.

Location: SACPA sessions are held at Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO), Atrium Dining Room, 500 - 11 Street South, Lethbridge

Lunch and Refreshments: If you like, please arrive early to patronize the LSCO cafeteria and enjoy its excellent variety of good-value food/drink options in the Atrium Dining Room ahead of the session.

For more information on the Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs, visit the SACPA web page.