Community Action Program (CAP)

1. What is C.A.P.?

A community volunteer program designed for students of CVIC. In consultation with the Academic Director you will determine an area of interest or benefit. The College will then research placements that are available and most closely match your specified objectives . Arrangements for a volunteer position will then be made for you.

2. Who May Participate?

You may join the program if: You agree to be a responsible participant. Your English language level matches the requirements of the particular volunteer activity that you choose. You are registered for three or more months of study at CVIC. However, if you enrol for a shorter period and would like to participate we will make every effort to identify a program that will be of benefit to you. Short term placements are limited.

3. What Advantages Are There By Participating In This Program?

You will learn useful new skills. You will be able to use your English with Canadians, in a natural environment independent from the College. You will make many new friends and also be making a valuable contribution to your host community. You will develop your understanding of Canadian Culture.

4. Is Participation Mandatory?

No, participation is only by your request.

5. What Is Expected Of Me?

Just do your best. No professional demands are placed upon you. The Agencies that participate in our program do so because they want to. The people you will be working with are friendly, kind, and understanding.

6. Where do I go?

This depends upon the type of volunteer position you choose. However, we ensure that all of our program venues are within relatively easy traveling distance from the College.

7. What Will I Be Doing?

The best way to answer this question is to describe a student's experience as an example; Our student had an ambition to become an Interpreter. When the Coal Mines were still operating in the Town of Cumberland there was a large established Japanese community. We learned that the Cumberland Museum had a quantity of very old Japanese documents to be translated but nobody qualified to do the job. Arrangements were made for our student to work at the Museum once per week. She was a level four student and her interests and goals complimented the position. How Did The Student Benefit? Gained self confidence. Practised and improved her English skills more quickly. Received direct experience translating important documents. Given direct experience with the Internet and E-Mail system. Learned Computer Word Processing, Museum Archiving systems. Gained insight into the daily lives of families living here over one hundred years ago. Assisted in developing a Computer Database of the translations for all people to access in the future. Made some very good friends.

8. How Often Do I Participate?

The program is designed for one afternoon per week. However, you may participate more often if agreeable with the volunteer organization and your Instructor.

9. What Happens On The First Day?

After determining your interest and English level we will help you to choose a program that you will enjoy and benefit from. We will then introduce you to the Supervisor at the organization you will be volunteering with. We will also accompany you on a tour of the premises where you can ask all the questions you want. Your responsibilities will also be explained to you.

NOTE: In your application form there is a question asking if you would like to participate in CAP.