Leadership Education and Development Program or LEAD is a daytime group support program for immigrant women. The LEAD program is designed to be a “next step” out into the community for women who are comfortable enough with English to participate in group discussions – women who are interested in sharing their experiences with others.
In this professionally facilitated program, women improve their listening skills and spoken English, gain self-confidence, and make new friends. They learn more about Canadian society, its diversity and culture. Topics of discussion include cultural diversity, financial skills, settlement stages, and self-development,
Completion of the LEAD program leads to an enhanced ability for women to become more involved in the community. LEAD graduates may choose to register in our Building Bridges Program where the learning and reaching out continues, with up to 20 hour practicum with a select community organization.
As with our all PIRS ESL programs, LEAD classes start in September, January, and April. Selection and enrollment takes place via attendance at an information session and a one-to-one-interview. Once selected participants attend two-hour sessions, twice a week for 11 weeks. Completion of our ESL programs is NOT required, but the LEAD program is an excellent next step for women who have progressed through enough levels of English language instruction to participate in a safe and professionally led group learning environment, in English.
Free childminding is available for children 18 months to 5 years of age while their mothers attend the classes. In this program, children learn through play, songs and stories as they prepare for Canadian life and get ready for school entry.
The LEAD Program is held Tuesday and Thursday mornings at:
Mt. Pleasant Neighbourhood House
800 East Broadway
Vancouver, BC
There is a small fee for this program, but some financial assistance is available. Transportation subsidy is also provided if required.
To apply to join the LEAD program, please call 604.298.5888 ext. 25 or email ldbb@pirs.bc.ca for registration information.
