The WINS Local Immigration Partnership (LIP) in New Westminster invites community members and organizations to participate in targeted working groups that strengthen the city’s capacity to welcome and support newcomers. These groups are open to all—whether or not you attend the larger WINS Council meetings.
Each working group has a distinct purpose, set of activities, and meeting schedules:
- Strategic Planning Working Group
Purpose: Provides oversight and steers the strategic direction of the LIP, including the annual community activity plan.
Activities: High-level planning, program evaluation, and alignment with broader goals.
Role: Leadership and strategic input.
Meeting Frequency: Monthly (at least 3/year), with additional planning sessions.
- Employment Working Group
Purpose: Supports newcomers in securing and retaining employment aligned with their skills.
Activities: Job fairs, resource development, employer engagement.
Role: Solution-building and outreach.
Meeting Frequency: Bi-monthly (at least 4/year), plus project work.
- Belonging and Community Receptivity Working Group
Purpose: Enhances newcomers’ sense of belonging and promotes positive attitudes toward immigrants and refugees.
Activities: Cultural events, community dialogues, inclusivity campaigns.
Role: Community engagement and support.
Meeting Frequency: Monthly (at least 4/year), often tied to event planning.
- Emergency Response Working Group
Purpose: Originally formed for Ukrainian arrivals, now supports all refugees during crises.
Activities: Coordinating housing, legal aid, and social services.
Role: Rapid response and resource mobilization.
Meeting Frequency: As needed, responsive to emerging situations.
- SPOKES Committee (Resilience BC Anti-Racism Network)
Purpose: Focuses on anti-racism and equity through the Resilience BC Network.
Activities: Campaigns, workshops, outreach to marginalized communities.
Role: Advocacy and long-term project collaboration.
Meeting Frequency: Bi-monthly (at least 4/year), plus project development.