Apr 8, 2026
Blooming with Community Spirit
Dear Community Partners,
Spring is in the air, bringing fresh energy, connection, and community spirit! As flowers bloom and Easter, we’re excited to share how CCSS has been bringing people together, celebrating volunteers, and supporting families.
From our Volunteer Appreciation Awards and Speed Puzzling Competition to programs that help with taxes and home energy savings, there’s plenty of inspiration, fun, and helpful resources to enjoy this season.
Wishing you a wonderful spring full of joy and connection!
💡 ECAP: Save Energy, Cut Costs
The Energy Conservation Assistance Program (ECAP) helps income qualified households make their homes more comfortable and energy efficient at no cost.
CCSS is partnering with BC Hydro and FortisBC to help eligible residents get free home energy assessments, personalized energy saving advice, insulation upgrades, air source heat pumps with maintenance, and other weatherization improvements, plus a free energy saving kit. All of these are designed to lower energy bills and improve home comfort.
🤝 Helping Our Community File Taxes
CCSS is offering a free in‑person tax clinic this spring through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP), a Canada Revenue Agency supported initiative. Trained volunteers will help eligible individuals and families with simple personal income tax returns and make sure they access the benefits and credits they’re entitled to.
The clinic runs March 14 to April 19, 2026, at multiple locations in Richmond by appointment only, with appointments available now.
🌟 Celebrating Service, Leadership, and Connections in Our Community
On March 8, 2026, CCSS hosted the Volunteer Appreciation Awards, bringing together over 100 volunteers, community leaders, and supporters to honor the incredible people who give their time and energy to make a difference.
The event recognized 268 volunteers who contributed nearly 5,000 hours supporting seniors, youth, and families in Richmond. From digital literacy programs to youth initiatives and community outreach, the afternoon was filled with inspiring stories, gratitude, and well-deserved recognition for everyone helping to strengthen the community.
🧩Pieces of Fun: Puzzle Highlights
On March 22, 2026, CCSS brought the community together for our third Puzzle Competition. It was an afternoon full of teamwork, friendly competition, and puzzle-solving!
The day started with a Puzzle Swap, where participants shared and exchanged puzzles while connecting with fellow enthusiasts in a relaxed social setting. Then, teams of four took on a 1000-piece puzzle challenge, racing against the clock and working together to complete every piece.
🤖 Preparing Your Child for an AI World
We are pleased to support this upcoming free seminar as a venue sponsor, bringing together parents and experts to explore how to prepare children for an AI-driven future.
This session will cover key topics including the evolving academic landscape, skills for future success, and how parents can support their children in navigating a rapidly changing world.
The seminar will be conducted in Cantonese and is designed for parents who are interested in understanding how education and career pathways are shifting in the age of AI.
👉 Scan the QR code or contact the organizer for registration details.
Special thanks to CCSS Admin & Graphics Team for helping make this newsletter possible.
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