The Kyrgyz Association in Canada (KAC) is a not-for-profit cultural community organization that supports newcomers from Kyrgyzstan and other Turkic and Slavic-speaking countries in integrating into Canadian society through various wellness and settlement support program. With support from InMotion Network, this volunteer organization supported a series of fitness, stretching, yoga classes for newcomer women.

• The program provided 9 flexibility/stretching sessions that also provided instruction on the elements of rhythmic gymnastics, including hoops, balls and ropes to help improve their hand eye coordination, flexibility and balance in a safe space.
• There were 16 classes of yoga/flexibility with a focus on learning the mind-bind connection, stress relief/relaxation, balance and coordination.
• In order to support as many classes as possible, the yoga/flexibility sessions were held outdoors in Edmonton parkland, with no rental costs.
• In total, 37 unique participants attended the 25 sessions.

The program was extremely well received from the community and the participants identified what was important to them in this program, including:

• The importance and impact of having a high quality coach leading the sessions, including one who was able to support a wide range of abilities, experience and ensured all were included.
• The activities that the participants learned can and will be used and support them in their daily life and/or their work.
• One participant shared how these classes helped her to care about her own well-being. “This class was a motivation for me to begin exercising regularly. Being a newcomer to
  Canada is tough, and I had to study hard; after graduating, I had to work hard in 2-3 jobs, so my family and kids could live an average life. After these stretching classes, I realized that
  since I came to Canada, I have never had a chance to consider my well-being. Now I decided to sign up for fitness classes.”

KAC hopes to continue this program in the future and appreciates funding support to address communities facing equity challenges. Programs like these gives an opportunity for newcomers, BIPOC, ethnic minority community to feel included and welcomed.