Believe, change, grow. Never give up.
CILI is a Calgary non-profit offering affordable and donation-funded education for children, youth, seniors, and adults: ESL, CELPIP, IELTS, computer skills, GED, literacy, wellness, and mentorship.
Who
A Calgary community of learners, mentors and teachers
“Affordable access to education can change a life.”
We are pleased to be part of a non-profit that makes a difference for children and adults in our community. Our founding goal is to enrich students' lives through high-quality education in English as a Second Language, individualized tutoring, self-esteem training and many other programs.
We provide more than 30 courses to prepare students for life, school, college and career, in a secure atmosphere that encourages intellectual risk-taking. We are proud to offer classes for seniors, who bring a wealth of knowledge to share.
Sherma Jeffrey-Ryan, BA, BEd, MEdPresident
What
Four pillars guide everything we do
CILI advances the economic, educational, physical, cultural and social life of Calgary, with a strong focus on English language learners and those facing barriers to the workplace.
- 01
Education
Public education, academic training, workplace and career development, plus computer and technology training for children, youth and adults.
- 02
Cultural
Cultural events and art projects that enrich the community, celebrate diversity and help diverse groups build relationships.
- 03
Social & physical safety
Public education on community concerns, addressing social and physical safety, and educational summer camps for underprivileged children.
- 04
Humanitarian
Support for educational projects in other countries, including books and supplies for schools in under-resourced areas.
When
Calgary International Learning Institute
Serving Calgary learners since 1995
For three decades CILI has offered barrier-free education — free of ethnic, religious or political affiliation — so children, youth, seniors and adults can keep learning at every stage of life. Classes run weekdays and Saturdays year-round.
- Founded
- 1995
- Weekdays
- Monday – Friday 10:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
- Saturday
- Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Where
Learning in Northeast Calgary
Visit our campus for classes, registration and community events. We welcome learners from across the city — and visitors from around the world.
3025 12 Street NE, Suite 130
Calgary, AB T2E 7J2
Why
Because affordable education changes lives — and strengthens all of Calgary
Our vision is a dynamic, inclusive learning environment that raises the educational level of children and adults. Every gift, volunteer hour and membership helps keep that door open.
Reasons why
- Break the cycle of poverty through education
- Keep learning free and affordable for every age
- Welcome newcomers, youth, seniors and families
- Build skills for school, work and everyday life
- Strengthen an inclusive Calgary community