Surrey LIP Blog: Five Reasons Organizations Participate in the Surrey Local Immigration Partnership (LIP)

The Surrey Local Immigration Partnership (SLIP) brings together agencies, organizations, and community groups to work on enhancing the welcoming and inclusive nature of Surrey and improving settlement outcomes for immigrants and refugees. Currently, the Surrey LIP Council is comprised of more than 30 members representing all aspects of Surrey society. Why do these agencies invest their time and energy into participating in the Surrey LIP? Here are five key reasons:

 

1. Collaboration for Greater Impact

No single organization can address all the challenges faced by newcomers. By participating in the Surrey LIP, agencies work collaboratively to combine resources, expertise, and networks. This collective approach enables them to create meaningful, community-wide solutions that make a greater impact than working in isolation. Ultimately, the member organizations are working towards their shared vision: 

“Surrey is a community where diversity is valued; social, economic, and cultural opportunities are accessible to all; and new and longer-term residents work together to build a more welcoming and inclusive city.” Surrey LIP Community Plan 2024 -2029

An example of this collaboration is Surrey’s Welcome Week 2024. During this event LIP members pooled their efforts to organize an event that reached hundreds of residents, fostering connections and cultural understanding.

 

2. Staying Informed on Newcomer Needs

The Surrey LIP conducts research, gathers community feedback, and monitors trends to identify the evolving needs of immigrants and refugees. Agencies benefit from access to this data, which helps them adjust to ensure their programs, services and resources are meeting the needs of Surrey’s newest residents. Research reports and a host of informative fact sheets are easily accessible on the Surrey LIP website. 

Currently, the Surrey LIP is conducting a Community Needs Assessment Survey. The assessment will increase understanding of the settlement service infrastructure needs, gaps and barriers and how these relate to demand and capacity. 

 

3. Networking and Building Partnerships

The Surrey LIP creates opportunities for agencies to connect with like-minded organizations and build partnerships. These relationships often lead to joint initiatives, funding opportunities, and shared best practices. 

For example, the Surrey LIP collaborated with Surrey Libraries and the Library Champions Project on the Stories of Impact project. This video storytelling project shared the personal journeys of five immigrants to Surrey. The videos inspire belonging and inclusion and celebrate the Surrey’s rich diversity. 

 

4. Advocacy and Collective Voice

Through the Surrey LIP, agencies can advocate for systemic changes at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels. As part of a larger network, they amplify their voice, ensuring that the needs of immigrants and refugees are heard by policymakers.

One of the Surrey LIP’s priorities within their Community Plan is “Inspiring Humanitarianism” and it exemplifies the potential power of a collective voice. 

“This priority stands as a beacon of compassion and solidarity within the City of Surrey. With a steadfast commitment to fostering empathy and support for immigrant and refugee resettlement, this priority area encapsulates the essence of Canadians’ humanitarian values and the spirit of inclusivity that defines our nation. 

At its core, the priority of “Inspiring Humanitarianism” is to cultivate a deep-seated understanding and appreciation among Surrey residents for Canada’s longstanding commitment to providing sanctuary and opportunity for vulnerable immigrants and refugees. Through education, advocacy, and direct engagement, this priority seeks to ignite a sense of shared responsibility and empathy, motivating individuals to actively contribute to these crucial humanitarian efforts. 

As we embark on this collective journey of compassion and solidarity, let us remember that it is through our shared humanity and unwavering commitment to justice and inclusion that we can truly build a more welcoming and compassionate society.”

 

5. Demonstrating Community Leadership

Participation in the Surrey LIP positions agencies as leaders in the settlement and integration sector. By being part of this initiative, organizations showcase their commitment to fostering an inclusive community where newcomers feel welcome and supported. This leadership also helps agencies build trust with newcomers, funders, and community partners, enhancing their credibility and reach.

DIVERSEcity’s CEO and Surrey LIP Chair, Neelam Sahota underscores the Local Immigration Partnership’s importance by saying, “The state of our society is more divided and misled than any other time in recent history, but the role of Local Immigration Partnerships can help bring communities back together. The Surrey LIP’s work strengthens our voice to ensure policy makers and decision makers are working for our communities. We keep agencies in Surrey connected, coordinated, informed, and equipped to advocate.”

 

Is Your Organization Interested in Being Part of the Solution?

Agencies join the Surrey Local Immigration Partnership because they understand the power of collaboration. By working together, staying informed, building partnerships, advocating for change, and demonstrating leadership, they make a lasting difference in the lives of immigrants and refugees in Surrey.

Is your agency interested in making an impact? Learn more about becoming part of the Surrey LIP and join us in creating a stronger, more inclusive community!

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