The Calgary Iranian Community Association (CICA) is a non-profit, non-religious, and non-partisan community association serving Iranians and people of Iranian heritage in Calgary and the surrounding area—together with friends of Iran who support CICA’s mission. CICA exists to strengthen belonging, improve day-to-day outcomes for families and individuals, and build a connected community that contributes positively to Calgary. Our work spans settlement support, practical life resources, culture and language, civic inclusion, wellbeing, youth engagement, and partnerships, delivered through programs, events, resources, and community collaboration.
OUR MISSION
CICA (Calgary Iranian Community Association) strengthens the lives of Iranians and people of Iranian heritage in Calgary and the surrounding area by delivering practical supports, community programs, and pathways to participation. Our work is guided by our formal Objects (Schedule A) and delivered in a way that is welcoming, inclusive, and grounded in real community needs. We operate as a non-profit, non-religious, and non-partisan association, open to all who support our Objects, regardless of background, belief, or immigration status.
In practical terms, our mission comes to life through the following pillars:
Community & settlement support
Moving to a new city—or rebuilding your life in it—requires more than information. CICA provides orientation and hands-on support so members can navigate everyday systems with confidence. We offer one-to-one and group-based guidance, help people understand what services exist, and connect them to trusted community and public resources.
Our approach is community-first: we listen, identify barriers, and help members take the next practical step—whether that means finding the right settlement agency, understanding a letter or form, preparing for an appointment, or connecting with others who have been through similar transitions.
How this shows up at CICA
- Intake and navigation support (in-person and virtual)
- Orientation sessions for newcomers and established residents
- Warm referrals to specialized agencies and community partners
Practical “Life in Canada” services
CICA helps members understand the “how-to” of daily life in Canada—so routine tasks don’t become long-term stressors. Through workshops, info sessions, translated/clarified materials, online resources, and referrals, we support access to key systems like health care, education, transportation, banking, digital services, benefits, and legal rights and responsibilities.
We prioritize clarity and empowerment: members leave with checklists, practical steps, and trustworthy pathways—plus follow-up support when the next step feels complicated or time-sensitive.
Examples of what we deliver
- Digital literacy and online safety (banking, CRA/Service Canada basics)
- “Health care in Alberta” orientation and family doctor walk-through
- School registration and parent–school system basics
Housing & accommodation support
Stable housing is foundational. CICA supports members in understanding housing options across Calgary, neighbourhood considerations, and landlord–tenant rights and responsibilities. We provide lease literacy and guidance on common rental processes so members can avoid preventable issues and advocate for themselves.
Where appropriate, we collaborate with housing agencies and refer members to specialized supports—especially when there are urgent needs or complex barriers. Importantly, our role is supportive and educational: CICA does not act as a landlord or real estate broker.
What members can expect
- Neighbourhood and housing option orientation
- Lease and landlord–tenant rights/responsibilities guidance
- Partner referrals for emergency, subsidized, or specialized housing supports
Employment, education & economic empowerment
CICA promotes economic confidence and long-term stability by supporting career readiness, learning pathways, and professional growth. We offer resume and interview support, job-search strategy sessions, mentorship, and networking opportunities—often delivered with partners who specialize in employment and training.
We also help members understand credential recognition and upgrading pathways, and we provide introductory guidance for entrepreneurship and small business basics (e.g., planning, compliance, marketing foundations), connecting members with expert partners for deeper support.
How we deliver impact
- Career workshops, resume clinics, mock interviews
- Mentorship matching and professional networking
- Information pathways for credential recognition and continuing education
Social connections, recreation & quality of life
A strong community is built through belonging—through friendships, shared experiences, and opportunities to contribute. CICA reduces isolation by hosting gatherings, clubs, family activities, sports/leisure events, and volunteer opportunities that bring people together across ages, backgrounds, and life stages.
We intentionally design welcoming spaces for both newcomers and long-established community members, because the healthiest community bridges generations and experiences—creating social glue, resilience, and shared pride.
Examples
- Community socials, interest-based clubs, and family days
- Volunteer teams that help members contribute meaningfully
- Peer-support circles for connection and shared problem-solving
Culture, language & heritage
CICA preserves and celebrates Iranian culture across generations while creating bridges with the broader Calgary community. We deliver cultural, artistic, educational, and recreational programs—ranging from traditional celebrations like Nowruz and Yalda to concerts, music, art, literature, film, and language initiatives.
We treat culture as living and inclusive: programming is designed to reflect the diversity of Iranian identities and experiences, and to create a proud, welcoming place for families, youth, and newcomers to connect with heritage in a modern Canadian context.
What this includes
- Signature cultural events (Nowruz, Yalda) and intercultural programming
- Art/music/literature/film initiatives and community showcases
- Language and heritage programs that support intergenerational connection
Youth, women, seniors & vulnerable groups
CICA provides focused programming for groups that can face additional barriers—youth and students navigating identity and opportunity, women balancing settlement and family responsibilities, seniors facing isolation, and other vulnerable or under-served members.
Programs emphasize mentoring, leadership development, life skills, family and parenting supports, and age-appropriate recreation and learning. We design these offerings with safety, dignity, and practical outcomes in mind—so every member feels seen and supported, not “served.”
Examples
- Youth mentorship and leadership programs
- Women’s peer circles and life-skills workshops
- Seniors’ social/wellbeing programming and community connection initiatives
Health, mental health & wellbeing
Wellbeing is not one-size-fits-all—especially in the settlement experience. CICA supports members through education and safe spaces for conversation on health, stress, adaptation, family relationships, and intergenerational topics. We also connect members to qualified professionals and agencies when clinical or specialized support is needed.
Our role is supportive and community-based: we reduce stigma, increase access to information, and strengthen pathways to care—so members can seek help earlier and feel less alone while doing it.
What members can expect
- Workshops and information sessions on wellbeing topics
- Safe community spaces for dialogue and mutual support
- Referral pathways to qualified health and mental-health professionals
Civic participation, inclusion & anti-racism
CICA helps members participate fully in civic life—through practical civic education, community engagement, and constructive collaboration to address discrimination and improve inclusion. We provide non-partisan public education on issues affecting the community and work with institutions and partners to strengthen equity and belonging.
This pillar is rooted in dignity: the goal is a Calgary where Iranian Calgarians feel confident engaging with schools, workplaces, community systems, and civic processes—while building relationships that reduce bias and increase mutual understanding.
Examples
- Non-partisan civic information sessions and community dialogues
- Collaborative anti-racism and inclusion initiatives with partners
- Resources that help members understand rights/responsibilities and pathways to participation
Partnerships & collaboration
CICA is strongest when we coordinate rather than duplicate. We build partnerships with schools, settlement agencies, public bodies, post-secondary institutions, employers, and other communities to close gaps affecting Iranian Calgarians.
Partnerships allow us to bring specialized expertise into our programming, expand access to services, and create joint initiatives that improve outcomes for members—while also contributing positively to Calgary’s broader community ecosystem.
What this looks like
- Co-hosted workshops and referral pathways
- Joint programming with compatible community organizations
- Institutional collaboration that improves access and inclusion
Building capacity (sustainability & good governance)
Lasting impact requires strong internal systems. CICA invests in governance, volunteer development, leadership training, planning and evaluation, and clear communication systems—so programs stay reliable, transparent, and scalable as the community grows.
This includes building a healthy volunteer culture, documenting processes, improving service quality over time, and maintaining the operational backbone required to deliver high-trust community work consistently and responsibly.
How we sustain quality
- Volunteer/staff training and leadership development
- Planning, measurement, and continuous improvement
- Strong communication, documentation, and program delivery systems
OUR COMMITMENTS
CICA’s commitments are the standards we publicly hold ourselves to. They are not slogans, they are concrete principles and governance rules that shape how we operate, how we use resources, and how we serve the community. These commitments protect trust, ensure neutrality, and keep CICA focused on its Objects and community outcomes.
Non-profit and community-first
CICA operates exclusively to advance the Association’s Objects. This means we do not exist to create private benefit for individuals, and we do not distribute profits to members. All income, funds, and property are applied to programs, services, and activities that deliver community impact in Calgary.
Non-profit does not mean “no revenue”, it means revenue is used responsibly and transparently for mission delivery. CICA may receive and apply funds through membership fees, donations, grants, sponsorships, program fees, and revenue from mission-aligned activities. Every dollar is treated as community trust and managed with stewardship, governance oversight, and proper records.
When specialized services are required to deliver strong programs (e.g., professional facilitation, teaching, consulting, or event services), CICA may pay reasonable market-rate compensation, only when the arrangement is documented, approved by the Board (excluding any interested Director), and handled under strict conflict-of-interest rules. Directors serve without remuneration as Directors, though reasonable expense reimbursement is allowed under policy.
What this commitment means in practice
- Programs are designed around measurable community benefit, not personal gain.
- Financial statements are presented to members at the AGM, and the Association keeps proper records and minutes.
- CICA’s assets are protected for community purposes: if the Association dissolves, remaining assets go to qualified Canadian charities/donees with similar objects, never to members.
Non-religious and welcoming to all
CICA is intentionally non-religious. We do not promote, favor, or represent any religion, denomination, or religious authority. Our services and activities are open and accessible to all members regardless of religious belief, or non-belief. This is foundational to creating a shared civic space where every Iranian Calgarian (and friends of Iran) can belong without pressure, assumptions, or exclusion.
Being welcoming is more than “everyone is invited.” It means our events and programs are designed with inclusion in mind, language accessibility where possible, respectful community conduct standards, and a culture that prioritizes dignity and safety for individuals and families.
What this commitment means in practice
- CICA programs are cultural, educational, social, and community-focused, not religious gatherings.
- Participation is based on shared community interest, not belief.
- We build common ground across generations, backgrounds, and perspectives.
Non-partisan and constructive
CICA is non-partisan. We do not endorse, support, or oppose political parties or candidates, and we do not use CICA resources for partisan political purposes. This ensures that community programs remain inclusive and that members do not feel politically judged, categorized, or excluded.
At the same time, CICA may engage, where permitted, in non-partisan, constructive public education and advocacy on issues directly related to our Objects. That means we can educate, convene, and support community understanding on practical topics that affect settlement, inclusion, wellbeing, and civic participation, without aligning to parties, candidates, or partisan agendas.
What this commitment means in practice
- CICA focuses on community needs and practical outcomes, not party politics.
- When we speak publicly, it is grounded in our Objects (community services, inclusion, anti-racism, wellbeing, partnerships).
- Events remain safe spaces for members with different political opinions.
Respect, safety, and a strong community culture
CICA’s strength depends on how we treat one another. Membership comes with shared responsibilities: supporting the Objects, following bylaws and Board policies, acting with respect toward members, volunteers, staff, and partners, and keeping contact information current. These expectations exist to protect community safety, prevent harm, and keep CICA functional, welcoming, and trustworthy.
Respect is not passive. It means we actively foster a culture where people can participate without fear of humiliation, harassment, discrimination, or intimidation. CICA prioritizes a constructive environment, especially in community dialogue, volunteer teams, and public events, so that the Association remains strong across generations and backgrounds.
What this commitment means in practice
- Clear community conduct expectations apply to events, programs, meetings, and online spaces.
- Membership can be terminated for conduct seriously contrary to the Objects or policies, with fair notice and an opportunity to respond.
- CICA protects the right of members to be treated with dignity, and protects volunteers/staff who make programs possible.
OUR VISION
A confident, connected, and respected Iranian community in Calgary, where people of all ages and backgrounds feel supported, represented, and at home.
This vision is both social and practical. “Connected” means no one has to navigate life alone—newcomers, youth, seniors, families, and professionals can access real relationships, reliable information, and meaningful opportunities. “Respected” means the community is visible, organized, and constructive in Calgary’s civic and cultural landscape. “At home” means the Iranian experience in Calgary is not defined only by adaptation, but also by contribution, growth, celebration, and belonging.
OUR VALUES
We prioritize the collective benefit of the community over individual interests. This value shows up in how we choose programs, allocate resources, and design services—focusing on the needs that create the greatest positive impact across families, youth, seniors, newcomers, and long-established residents. Community-first also means listening carefully, using needs assessments and feedback, and staying aligned with the Objects.
In practice
- We choose programs that remove real barriers (settlement, housing literacy, employment readiness, wellbeing).
- We avoid “vanity projects” and focus on outcomes the community can feel.
Inclusiveness
CICA is open to individuals of Iranian heritage and to others who support the Objects, without restrictions based on gender, religion, political belief, or immigration status. Inclusiveness is not only a rule—it is a culture: welcoming language, respectful environments, and programming that reflects the diversity of Iranian identities and experiences.
In practice
- Programs are designed across age groups and life stages.
- Events aim to be welcoming for newcomers and established residents alike.
Transparency
Trust grows when information is clear. CICA maintains proper books and records and shares financial statements with members at the AGM. Members may inspect records with reasonable notice (subject to privacy obligations). Transparency also includes clear communication about decisions, priorities, and the reasons behind changes.
In practice
- Financial statements are presented to members annually.
- Spending approvals and signing authority follow defined controls (two authorized signatories).
- Conflicts of interest are disclosed and managed.
Accountability
Accountability means CICA’s leaders and teams act in the Association’s best interest and can be held responsible for decisions. The Board is responsible for governance, strategic direction, and financial stewardship, and operates under bylaws and member oversight through meetings and elections.
In practice
- Directors are elected by members and operate with meeting/voting standards.
- Conflicts are declared; interested directors abstain from voting.
- Authority to bind the Association through contracts is controlled and cannot be assumed by individuals.
Collaboration
CICA is stronger when we work with others—schools, post-secondary institutions, employers, settlement agencies, public bodies, and compatible community organizations. Collaboration helps avoid duplication, strengthens service quality, and expands opportunity for members.
In practice
- We co-host programs with expert partners and build referral pathways.
- We build bridges with Calgary’s broader community to promote inclusion and equity.
GOVERNANCE & ACCOUNTABILITY
CICA is governed by a Board of Directors that is responsible for the Association’s overall governance, strategic direction, and financial stewardship. The Board ensures that CICA’s work remains aligned with its Objects, complies with the Societies Act (Alberta), and is managed in a way that protects the Association’s long-term stability and public trust.
CICA’s governance model is designed to balance leadership and continuity with member oversight. Members elect Directors, approve major structural changes through special resolutions, and receive annual financial reporting at the AGM. This structure supports both accountability and responsible growth.
Board composition, size & representation
CICA’s Board consists of not fewer than five (5) and not more than nine (9) Directors. The number of Directors can only be changed within this range by special resolution of the Members, upon recommendation of the Board—ensuring that governance structure remains member-approved.
The bylaws also set an expectation that the Board should reflect the community’s diversity—across age, gender, professional background, and length of time in Canada—and, when reasonably possible, include at least one young adult (18–30) at the time of election. This helps CICA stay representative, future-focused, and responsive across generations.
Director eligibility, election, terms & continuity
Directors must be Regular Members in good standing, at least 18 years old, and not otherwise disqualified under the Act. This ensures Directors carry both legal eligibility and active membership accountability.
Directors (other than the Founding Director role described in Article 6) are elected by Members at the Annual General Meeting (AGM). Directors serve four (4) year terms, with a maximum of two (2) consecutive terms, unless Members approve an extension by special resolution. Where practicable, Director terms are staggered to ensure continuity and reduce governance disruption.
To support stability between AGMs, the Board may fill vacancies by appointing a qualified Regular Member until the next AGM, and it may declare a position vacant if a Director—without reasonable excuse—fails to attend three consecutive Board meetings. These rules protect continuity while keeping participation expectations clear.
Board meetings, quorum & decision-making
The Board meets as often as required, and at least four (4) times per year. Meetings may be held in person or through electronic means that allow all participants to communicate adequately. This flexibility supports timely governance while remaining practical for volunteers.
Quorum for a Board meeting is a majority of the Directors then in office, and Board decisions are made by majority vote of Directors present (unless a higher threshold is required in the bylaws). In the event of a tie vote, the Chair has a second/casting vote. This gives the Board clear rules for valid meetings and decisive outcomes.
Officers & leadership roles
CICA’s Officers may include a Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer, along with any other Officer roles the Board determines are needed. Officers are elected by the Board from among Directors at the first Board meeting following each AGM, serve one (1) year terms, and may be reappointed (subject to overall Director term limits).
Officer duties are clearly defined to support consistent governance:
- Chair: provides leadership, chairs Board and general meetings, and represents the Association externally.
- Vice-Chair: supports the Chair and acts in the Chair’s place when required.
- Secretary: ensures minutes are kept, maintains corporate records, and manages notices/correspondence.
- Treasurer: oversees budgets, financial reporting, and compliance with financial policies and regulatory requirements.
Founding Director & long-term stability
CICA’s bylaws include a Founding Director role intended to safeguard the Objects and long-term vision of the Association, while also supporting succession and leadership development. The bylaws also set a high threshold and defined process for removing or altering this role through a Founding Director Special Resolution, requiring significant approval at both Board and Member levels. This is designed as a stability mechanism to protect continuity and mission integrity.
Member meetings (AGM & voting)
Annual General Meeting (AGM)
CICA holds an AGM each calendar year at a time and place (or electronic platform) determined by the Board. Members receive at least 21 days’ written notice of general meetings, including the date, time, location/platform, and (for special meetings) the general nature of business. Notice may be given by mail, email, or other electronic means allowed by Board policy.
Special General Meetings
Special General Meetings can be called by a Board resolution or by written request signed by at least ten percent (10%) of Regular Members. This ensures members have a formal mechanism to bring forward important matters when needed.
Quorum (so decisions represent the community)
Quorum for a general meeting is the lesser of:
- 15 Regular Members, or
- 20% of Regular Members,
present in person or via approved electronic means. If quorum is not met within 30 minutes, the meeting is adjourned and rescheduled with notice to Members.
Voting rights & voting methods
Each Regular Member in good standing has one (1) vote. Elections of Directors and votes on special resolutions must be conducted by secret ballot or a secure electronic equivalent. Other questions may be decided by show of hands/voice vote/electronic equivalent, unless a secret ballot is requested by the Chair or by at least ten (10) Regular Members. Proxy voting is not permitted unless specifically authorized by Board policy consistent with the Act.
Financial transparency & safeguards
CICA keeps proper books and records of account and minutes of meetings of Members and Directors, in accordance with the Act. Members may inspect the Association’s books and records at the registered office during normal business hours, upon reasonable notice and subject to reasonable conditions and privacy obligations. This supports transparency while protecting sensitive personal information.
Financial statements & review
Financial statements are presented to Members at each AGM. The Board determines—based on the Act and any funding requirements—whether the accounts are reviewed by an auditor or by a person with appropriate financial qualifications. This ensures financial reporting meets both legal expectations and practical accountability standards.
Signing authority (two-signature control)
The Board designates at least two (2) Directors or Officers as signing authorities, and all cheques, electronic payments, and legal documents must be signed/authorized by any two authorized signatories unless the Board sets more specific policies. This “two-signature” rule is a core safeguard against misuse and improves internal control.
Contracts & binding commitments
Only the Board may authorize CICA to enter contracts, agreements, or other binding commitments (services, employment, leases, purchases, etc.). The Board may delegate limited authority to Officers or an Executive Director up to specified limits, but no one may bind the Association unless authority is expressly granted by the Board.
Conflict of interest
Directors and Officers must disclose the nature and extent of any direct or indirect interest in a proposed contract or transaction as soon as the conflict is known, and must abstain from voting on any resolution concerning that matter. The Board may also require the individual to leave the meeting during discussion. This ensures decisions are made in the Association’s best interest, and protects both integrity and reputation.
Dissolution safeguard
If CICA dissolves, and after all liabilities are paid, any remaining assets must be distributed to one or more registered charities or other qualified donees in Canada with similar objects, as determined by special resolution of the Members and in accordance with applicable law. No Member may receive financial benefit from the distribution of assets upon dissolution. This protects community assets and ensures they remain dedicated to public/community purpose.
YOUTH ENGAGEMENT
CICA believes a strong community is built across generations. Youth and young adults are not only participants in community life—they are future leaders, organizers, innovators, and bridge-builders between cultures, identities, and experiences. For that reason, CICA actively encourages meaningful youth and young adult participation in the Association’s programs, decision-making, and leadership pathways.
Youth engagement at CICA is designed to be practical, respectful, and empowering. We focus on giving young people real opportunities to contribute, build skills, and shape programming—while ensuring appropriate safety and oversight.
Youth participation in activities and governance
CICA affirms youth and young adult participation in both activities and governance—meaning youth voices are welcomed not only in events and programs, but also in how we plan and improve what we do as an organization.
This includes:
- Youth involvement in community events, cultural programming, and volunteer teams
- Youth-led ideas influencing program design and priorities
- Opportunities for young people to gain experience in planning, leadership, and community service
- A clear channel for youth feedback so programs reflect real youth needs and interests
Youth Advisory Council
To make youth participation consistent and organized, the Board may establish a Youth Advisory Council (or similar body). Its role is not symbolic, it is designed to create a structured way for youth perspectives to shape CICA’s direction and activities.
Purpose of the Youth Advisory Council
- Advise on programming and priorities for youth (what youth want, what youth need, what actually works)
- Provide leadership opportunities for young members through planning roles, project ownership, and representation
The Youth Advisory Council:
- meets regularly (in-person or virtual) to identify priorities and propose initiatives
- gathers feedback from youth in the community and turns it into actionable recommendations
- supports youth-led projects (events, mentorship, volunteer initiatives, learning programs)
- develops leadership skills by learning how community organizations plan, budget, communicate, and deliver programs
Youth Members serving on committees and working groups
CICA’s bylaws explicitly allow Youth Members to serve on committees and working groups, subject to any age-related legal or insurance requirements. This is important because it creates real operational access—youth can contribute to planning and delivery, not only attend events.
- Youth members may participate in event planning teams, youth program teams, communications support, volunteer coordination, and community outreach
- Youth participation is supported with appropriate supervision, clear roles, and safe boundaries
- Age-related restrictions are respected when required (e.g., liability, travel, supervision ratios, or venue rules)
Young adult inclusion in Board representation
CICA’s governance framework also encourages youth and young adult representation at leadership levels. The bylaws state that, when reasonably possible, at least one Director position should be held by a young adult aged 18–30 at the time of election. This supports multi-generational decision-making and ensures the Board remains future-focused.
What youth engagement looks like in practice
CICA’s youth engagement is built around three outcomes:
1) Belonging and connection
Youth programs create community, friendships, and a sense of identity—especially for young people navigating multiple cultures, languages, and expectations.
2) Skills and leadership
Youth gain practical experience through:
- volunteering and organizing
- public speaking and teamwork
- project planning and responsibility
- mentorship and peer leadership
3) Youth-informed programming
Programs are improved continuously through youth feedback—so initiatives stay relevant to real youth priorities rather than assumptions.
JOIN US
CICA is built by the community—and for the community. Whether you’re new to Calgary, have lived here for years, are studying, building a career, raising a family, running a business, or simply want to stay connected to Iranian culture and community life, there is a place for you at CICA. Our strength comes from people who show up, contribute ideas, volunteer time, share skills, and support programs that make a real difference.
Joining CICA is not one single action. It’s a set of pathways, so you can participate in the way that fits your life right now.
1) Become a member
Membership is the most direct way to support CICA’s mission and take part in shaping the Association’s future. As a member, you help strengthen an organized and sustainable community platform—and you gain a formal voice in the Association through member meetings and elections.
Membership helps CICA:
- Maintain stable operations and plan long-term programs
- Grow service capacity and community initiatives
- Represent the community with credibility and structure
- Build better partnerships with institutions and organizations
2) Volunteer with CICA
CICA is volunteer-led, and volunteering is one of the fastest ways to build friendships, contribute meaningfully, and strengthen the community. Whether you have a few hours a month or want to take on a bigger role, we match volunteers with practical needs.
Ways to volunteer:
- Events & logistics (setup, hosting, coordination)
- Programs (workshops, mentorship, youth activities)
- Community outreach and welcome teams
- Communications, content, photography, design
- Fundraising, sponsorship, and partner support
- Committees and working groups (planning and delivery)
3) Attend events and programs
Events are where community becomes real. CICA offers gatherings and programs designed to connect newcomers and long-time residents, support families, and create space for culture, learning, and belonging.
By attending, you:
- Meet people and build your network
- Discover resources and opportunities
- Support community-run programming
- Help create a welcoming, active community atmosphere
4) Partner with us (businesses & organizations)
CICA welcomes partnerships with local businesses, sponsors, service providers, and community organizations that align with our mission and values. Partnerships can support community programs while also building meaningful community visibility.
Partnership opportunities can include:
- Sponsoring events or program series
- Supporting youth/women/seniors initiatives
- Providing services, workshops, or in-kind contributions
- Collaborating on community projects and outreach
- Participating in CICA’s community marketplace initiatives
5) Support CICA (donations & sponsorships)
Donations and sponsorships help CICA deliver programs, improve accessibility, and expand services—especially for members who need support or cannot afford program fees. Support also helps CICA grow sustainably and respond to emerging community needs.
Your support helps fund:
- Settlement and life-in-Canada education initiatives
- Youth and leadership programming
- Cultural events and community gatherings
- Community wellbeing and support initiatives
- Program materials, venue costs, and operational needs
6) Stay connected
Even if you’re not ready to join as a member yet, you can stay connected and participate as you go:
- Subscribe to updates
- Follow our announcements
- Share opportunities and events with friends
- Invite others to participate
Our logo is designed to reflect both community connection and Persian cultural heritage—in a modern, inclusive form.
- The circle of people represents unity, mutual support, and the idea that community is built through participation, members, volunteers, partners, and families moving forward together.
- The central tree symbolizes life, growth, and belonging. In Persian cultural tradition and mythology, trees are deeply meaningful, often representing endurance, renewal, and continuity across generations.
- The tree’s form is inspired by the Cypress (Sarv), a respected symbol in Persian art and storytelling, commonly associated with steadfastness, dignity, and resilience.
- The turquoise/blue palette draws from the timeless colors found in Persian art and architecture, while also representing trust, clarity, and openness, values that guide how CICA serves the community.
Together, these elements express a simple idea:
A strong community grows when people stay connected, support one another, and carry their heritage forward with pride.