What is a Sponsor?
A sponsor is a CAF member already living and working in your positing that will help you get settled into your new community.
If you do not have a Sponsor due to the size of your base, contact MFS and they will guide you during your posting.
What the Sponsor does?
Your Sponsor will follow a pre-determined list of tasks that as a member, you need to complete for your full in-clearance process. However, the in-clearance process is only a small part of what a sponsor can provide. If possible, spouses and children should be a part of this process as it usually involves many introductions, tours around your new base, and by default, some local sightseeing! Sponsors are great to connect with in your new posting as they already have the local experience and can answer many of your questions!
What to ask your Sponsor?
Housing - what is the process in your area? Selection process
Phone and internet providers – who do they recommend as a provider? Also, ask if there are important things to know before getting set up like, how long does it take? Does the installation impact your rental unit?
Utilities – How to set up?
Banking - Are there banking institutions locally that deal with Canadian military members and understand the temporary residency
Insurance - is there a local company that Canadian’s use for Car and Tenant insurance
Buying a car - What tips can you get for buying in your new community?
Education- What do you need to have and do to get your child registered for school?
Driving - What are some non-typical driving rules?
Grocery stores – Which stores are recommended? Also, are there local markets? Typically, you will find better prices there!
Social Media Pages - Are there Facebook community pages that you can join to get connected to what is happening in the community?
Dining - Where are some recommended local restaurants? While you are getting settled, make things easier and take out, or order in!
Local children’s activities – start with the MFS but a great question to ask is where do families go for entertaining children.
Local customs - What are some local traditions, customs and ‘faux pas’? – ex. No work in Germany on Sundays! Siesta in Spain is real and shops and services close during those times (plan accordingly)!
Medical and Dental - What clinics and doctors are there to support Canadian’s? Don’t forget a copy of medical records.
Pets - What are local rules? Popular veterinarians and food brands in country
A sponsor can be worth their weight in gold! Moving to a new country can be very exciting and challenging. There are many stages to the OUTCAN experience and knowledge is power. A sponsor can provide answers to many of your questions or point you in the right direction to get the answers you need. We need to remember that we are here to support each other throughout all the amazing and challenging parts of our military lives.
Good Luck in your OUTCAN Experience!