Board Chair and CEO’s Message

Dear Friends,

We are proud to share ISSofBC’s 2025–26 Annual Impact Report, along with our second report on progress toward implementing our Truth & Reconciliation Strategy (TRS).

This was not a typical year.

Across Canada, changes to immigration policy, reduced arrival levels, and wider global uncertainty combined to create significant pressure on the immigration and settlement sector. For organizations like ISSofBC, this meant navigating continued operational adjustments alongside new funding reductions that will shape service delivery for years to come.

Our Board has been closely engaged in navigating these challenges, with a strong focus on long-term sustainability and mission impact. In the face of this, we remain anchored in our purpose and mission to foster belonging, inclusion, and success.

We are deeply grateful for the resilience and commitment of our staff and volunteers. Their ability to adapt, support one another, and continue delivering high-quality services under real strain is nothing short of extraordinary.

We also acknowledge the newcomers we serve—individuals and families who, in many cases, continue to navigate uncertainty and, at times, misunderstanding or even discrimination. Despite this, they have continued to make remarkable strides: learning new languages, building careers, contributing to communities, and shaping our shared future.

Their success reinforces what we know to be true: Immigration is fundamental to Canada’s strength, and maintaining that strength requires more than just sound policy—it requires a clear, positive shared vision.

This is why ISSofBC is proud to be part of The Canada We Believe In—a national movement calling for a renewed approach to immigration rooted in unity, opportunity, and trust. We believe in bringing Canadians together around shared values, ensuring newcomers and long-time residents alike can thrive, and rebuilding confidence in an immigration system that is fair, transparent, and effective.

At its core, this vision recognizes that immigration is not only about numbers—it is about people, communities, and our collective future. It calls for clear and responsive programs, coordinated investment, and a renewed commitment to inclusion and humanitarian leadership.

Even in a year of strain, our sector came together in many ways—with partners across civil society, business, and government—to advance this vision. This work is not easy, particularly in a climate where trust is fragile and public discourse is often polarized. Yet, it is essential.

There is no strong, sustainable future for Canada without a thoughtful and successful immigration system—and no such system exists without community organizations like ISSofBC delivering critical and effective services every day.

We invite you to stand with us: to support this work, to advocate for a positive vision, and to help build the Canada we all believe in.

Thank you for your continued partnership.

Catarina Moreno

Board Chair

Jonathan Oldman

Chief Executive Officer