Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization

Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO), officially registered as OTTAWA COMMUNITY IMMIGRANT SERVICES ORGANIZATION / ORGANISME COMMUNAUTAIRE DES SERVICES AUX IMMIGRANTS D'OTTAWA, is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting immigrants and refugees in the Ottawa area. It operates as a registered charity under the Business Registration Number 107805632RR0001.

History and Mission

Founded in 1978, OCISO has been serving the immigrant and refugee population of Ottawa for over four decades. The organization's mission is to assist newcomers in their journey of making Canada their home by offering culturally and linguistically appropriate programs. It aims to build community through mutual respect and partnerships, fostering inclusive spaces that encourage open dialogue and healing.

Services and Programs

OCISO directly serves over 12,000 immigrants and refugees annually across four locations in Ottawa, including Central, East, and South areas. Its diverse programs and services are delivered in more than 40 languages to clients originating from around 120 countries. The organization’s professional staff is supported by volunteers who contribute to its community efforts.

Key services include:

• Settlement Services: Helping newcomers adapt to life in Canada by providing guidance and resources.
• English Language Learning: Offering language classes to improve communication skills essential for integration.
• Employment Assistance: Supporting clients in finding meaningful employment opportunities.
• Counselling Services: Unique clinical counseling focused on migration and culture-related issues, specializing in helping survivors of war trauma, political persecution, imprisonment, and torture. Counseling is available in multiple languages such as Arabic, Farsi, Hindi, Spanish, Urdu, Greek, and Tigrinya.
• Youth Programs: Designed to support immigrant and refugee youth in their integration through language improvement and social inclusion.
• Multicultural Liaison: Officers in schools assist immigrant children and promote parental involvement in education.

Impact and Community Role

OCISO plays a critical role in helping newcomers participate fully in the social, economic, and political life of Canada. Its multilingual approach and culturally responsive services ensure accessibility and relevance to a diverse client base. The organization’s commitment extends beyond direct services to fostering community connections and well-being among immigrants.

Recognition and Funding

The organization complies with the Canada Revenue Agency’s regulations for registered charities and benefits from community donations and volunteer support. Donations to OCISO help sustain its wide range of programs and enhance its capacity to serve Ottawa’s immigrant population effectively.

OCISO remains a vital institution in Ottawa’s social services landscape, empowering immigrants and refugees to thrive and contribute to Canadian society.