Building Connection and Change Through Art
We use creative practice to build connection, learning, and belonging. The Creative Community Impact Association (CCIA) is a federally incorporated non-profit offering free, socially engaged arts programming for adults. We bring people together through workshops, conversations, and community events that focus on process, not product.
Our programming is built around four core areas: Creative Connections, Inclusive Arts Practice, EcoArts Labs, and Pride Pedagogy. Within these, we facilitate hands-on, process-led experiences that use creativity as a way to support dialogue and reflection on inclusion, accessibility, diversity, and environmental futures. Our programs reduce isolation, strengthen belonging, and support gentle, community-led social change through shared creative participation.
What We Do
We use creativity as a tool for learning, connection, and positive change. Our work builds on inclusion, accessibility, and belonging. We combine creative practice with gentle advocacy and arts-based research to offer:
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Inclusive Programming: We host diverse arts experiences that foster connection and belonging for everyone, regardless of background.
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Gentle Advocacy: We use art as a tool to facilitate gentle dialogue to build stronger communities, and help our social and natural environments thrive.
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2SLGBTQIA+ Initiatives: We create safe, welcoming spaces designed by and for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, rooted in queer pedagogy that prioritize safety, joy, and creative autonomy.
Our Community
CCIA is a central hub for anyone who believes creativity can build a stronger, more connected world. Based in Kjipuktuk (Halifax) and growing across Canada, our diverse community includes:
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Socially Engaged Creatives: Artists and creators who use their work to drive meaningful, real-world change.
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Sector Leaders & Educators: Professionals looking for proven ways to make their spaces more inclusive and accessible.
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2SLGBTQIA+ Community: Individuals taking part in our dedicated Queer-led programs, built entirely around safety, joy, and collective care.
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Civic-Minded Adults: Adults from all walks of life looking for a safe space to connect, talk, and support one another.
Whether you are an artist looking to deepen your impact or a neighbour searching for connection, you belong here. You are part of a growing movement built on care and shared values.
How We Create Change
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Collective Care: We turn individual burdens into a shared responsibility. Join a Program
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Gentle Advocacy: We share evidence-based facts to help build a stronger arts sector.
Connect on Sector Collaboration
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Ecological Resilience: We use creativity to help communities adapt, respond, and thrive in a changing world.ve in a changing world.
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Values-Driven Leadership: We offer creative team-building workshops and public speaking that support groups in building inclusive, collaborative ways of working. Inquire about workshops and speaking engagements
Research & Knowledge Mobilization
We conduct arts-based research to understand how creativity can advance inclusion, accessibility, and community building. We are committed to a model of continual inquiry, ensuring our programming is grounded in evidence and lived experience.
Our Current Focus:
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Informed Design: Integrating frameworks of collective care and inclusion into every new initiative.
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Knowledge Sharing: Translating creative practice into actionable tools that strengthen the arts and social sectors.
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Accountable Growth: Establishing the foundations to ensure our work remains responsive to evolving community needs.
Our findings will guide future programs, inform advocacy, and bridge local practice with national community-building standards. This ensures our work is informed, accountable, and impactful.
Upcoming Events
For more information please visit our Community Programs Page
Community Canvas: Collaborative Fabric Painting Project
In partnership with Halifax Public Libraries
Create something that will leave a lasting impact on our community.
Join us for a free, collaborative fabric painting workshop where participants will design permanent table runners that reflect our 4 program streams. They will be showcased at future CCIA events and local pop-up markets. No experience is needed, all materials are provided, and everyone is welcome.
Please note: You do not need to register for both sessions. Each session requires its own registration, and space is limited
Location: Halifax Central Library, Lou Duggan Creative Studio
August Session
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Date: Sunday, August 30, 2026 | Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
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Themes: Community & Belonging (Creative Connections & Inclusive Arts)
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Registration Opens: August 16 at 12:00
September Session
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Date: Sunday, September 13, 2026 | Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
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Themes: Environment & Identity (EcoArts Labs & Pride Pedagogy)
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Registration Opens: August 30 at 12:00
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