SALDACSierra Leone Descendants Association in Calgary
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Programs

What SALDAC does, and what we're building next

Our programs celebrate Salone culture, bring families together and support seniors. New programs for newcomers, civic life, seniors and youth are in development.

What we do now

Running today

Abdullah Kamara, President of SALDAC, in a blue embroidered outfit and cap beside the Sierra Leone 65th Independence Celebration banner
Every April

Sierra Leone Independence Celebration

Who it's for
Everyone: families, friends and anyone who wants to celebrate Sierra Leone.
What happens
Sierra Leone became independent on April 27, 1961. Each year SALDAC marks it with an evening of music, dancing and culture. In 2026 it was SALONE@65.
See past celebrations
SALDAC members in green T-shirts posing together on the grass at the 2026 Picnic in the Park, with picnic blankets in front
Every August

Picnic in the Park

Who it's for
Members, families and friends of all ages.
What happens
A day outdoors in a Calgary park: a barbecue, sack races for the children and matching SALDAC T-shirts. Held since at least 2022.
See the 2026 photos
A young reader holding an open book
Last held October 12, 2025

Youth Krio Reading Circle

Who it's for
Youth and young adults.
What happens
Young people read together in Krio, the shared language of Sierra Leone, so the next generation keeps hearing and speaking it.
Ask about the next reading
A lit Christmas tree with wrapped presents underneath
Next: Saturday, December 12, 2026

Kids' Christmas

Who it's for
The community's children and their families.
What happens
Our Christmas party for the children, held every December. Past parties have included a visit from Santa and gifts for the children.
See this year's party
Grocery bags filled with apples, bananas, bread and vegetables
Food baskets every December

Seniors Support

Who it's for
Seniors in the community.
What happens
Every December, SALDAC puts together food baskets for seniors. With the Bridge to Oasis (BTO) Foundation, we have also helped provide seniors with computers and lessons in the basics they need for daily life.
Help with this year's baskets
A cardboard box packed with fresh vegetables, mushrooms and groceries
October 2026 registration open

Food Hampers with the Black Food Hub

Who it's for
Individuals and families in SALDAC's community.
What happens
Through Bright Lights for Africa Foundation's Black Food Hub, community members can register for an ethnocultural food hamper that reflects their culture and food preferences.
How to register

What we're building

In development, with our members

These come straight from our mission. They aren't running yet. If you have experience to share or would like to help, we'd like to hear from you.

A suitcase standing in an airport arrivals hall
In development

Newcomer Settlement Support

Who it's for
Sierra Leoneans who have recently arrived in Calgary.
What happens
Supporting newcomers with settlement and adaptation is part of SALDAC's mission. We're working out what this program will offer, and members' experience will shape it.
Tell us what would help
The Canadian flag flying in front of the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill
In development

Civic Education & Leadership

Who it's for
Members who want to understand Canadian democracy and take part in it.
What happens
Civic education and leadership are at the heart of SALDAC's mission. We're planning how to deliver them; if you'd like to help design or lead sessions, get in touch.
Offer to help
An elder's hands holding a cup of tea
In development

Seniors Outreach & Home Visits

Who it's for
Elderly members, especially those living alone.
What happens
Visits to elderly members at home, and a seniors support program we are setting up with a community development partner. We'll share details once it is confirmed.
Offer to visit or help
A group of people joining hands in a circle
In development

Youth in the Community

Who it's for
Children and youth.
What happens
Getting our children and young people involved in community activities, alongside the Krio reading circle.
Get your children involved

Want to take part?

Members help decide what SALDAC does next.

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