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Annual Report2011–2012

ThorncliffeNeighbourhoodOffice

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THORNCLIFFE PARK develops initiatives such as Tower Renewal,

a program that drives broad environmental, social, economic, and

cultural change by improving Toronto’s concrete apartment towers

and the neighbourhoods that surround them.


ANNuAl RePORT 2011– 2012 | 3

WELCOME TO THORNCLIFFE NEIGHBOURHOOD OFFICE (TNO), A COMMUNITY-

BASED, MULTICULTURAL AGENCY THAT IS THE FIRST STOP IN THE NEIGH-

BOURHOOD FOR INFORMATION, SERVICES AND SUPPORT. TNO IS COMMITTED

TO BUILDING A SAFE AND HEALTHY COMMUNITY BY SUPPORTING AND

STRENGTHENING THE QUALITY OF BOTH THE INDIVIDUAL AND THE

COMMUNITY IN THORNCLIFFE PARK.

Welcome to Thorncliffe ParkThorncliffe Park is a vibrant, growing, strong community in east central Toronto. A recent report

by TNO confirms what we already knew: more and more people are choosing to stay and make

their lives in our neighbourhood. At the same time, we continue to enjoy the privilege of receiving

newcomers to Canada. The population of Thorncliffe Park is highly educated, motivated, and full

of ideas about how to achieve their own goals and build a healthy neighbourhood. We are all very

excited about the future of Thorncliffe Park.

Tales from the Towers: Annual Report 2011–2012Welcome to our 2011– 2012 Annual Report. Inside you will find updates on TNO’s programs, services,

and funders. You will also hear directly from members of the Thorncliffe Park Community about life

in the neighbourhood, and the role of TNO.

Welcome to Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office


THE NEIGHBOURHOOD’S streets and parks are important social

spaces and places for recreational walking and exercising. Almost

half of participants reported that they walk or run recreationally

at least three times a week, and more than a third of these report

doing so every day.

– Preliminary Report: Thorncliffe Park Walkability Workshop



Message from the Chair of the Board and the Executive Director

THE LAST YEAR HAS BEEN A TRANSFORMATIVE ONE FOR THORNCLIFFE

NEIGHBOURHOOD OFFICE (TNO) AND THORNCLIFFE PARK. THE SLOW

ECONOMIC RECOVERY CONTINUES TO HAVE AN IMPACT ON IMMIGRATION

TRENDS, SETTLEMENT PATTERNS, LABOUR MARKET NEEDS, AND JOB

DEVELOPMENT IN THE COMMUNITY, AND ON PEOPLE WHO CONTINUE

TO SEEK INTEGRATION AND EMPLOYMENT.

Immigration settlement and integration of newcomers to Canada are going through drastic legislative

and policy redesign. The face of immigration is changing and the destination for landing is shifting.

While Ontario and Toronto in particular continue to attract many immigrants and refugees, more and

more are moving westward. The western provinces are booming economically and as a result, job

prospects for professional newcomers are significantly better there. This has led to a reduction in

funding allocation for settlement, integration, and language training in Ontario.


6 | ThORNClIffe NeIghbOuRhOOd OffICe

This caused Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office to wind down operations and services on the lower

level of the east York Town Centre. Our priority as we manage the funding shortage is to avoid nega-

tively impacting client services. We maintained the same level of staffing and reduced overhead

costs to make up for the funding shortfall. While immigration levels are generally lower in Ontario

than in previous years, this is not the case in Thorncliffe Park. The neighbourhood continues to at-

tract many new families and remains an “arrival city” for hundreds of immigrants each year.

TNO continues to develop new initiatives that address and respond to challenges faced by the

residents of Thorncliffe Park and surrounding communities. Job creation and employment opportuni-

ties continue to be the primary need for many of the residents of the community. While residents

of Thorncliffe Park on average have high education levels (69% with post-secondary education as

compared with 49% city average), the unemployment rate of 30% is more than double the city

unemployment rate of 14%. We continue to explore new ways of connecting the community to

employment opportunities.

long awaited projects, like the Tower Renewal Initiative, the Resilient Neighbourhood economies

Initiative and various corporate and individual mentorship projects are well underway. They are creating

and exploring concrete ways of strengthening and connecting the local economy and building a com-

munity economic development plan. We believe that together these initiatives will capitalize on the

enterprising spirit of the community and build a solid foundation for community economic revitalization

that will address significant and long-standing employment needs and challenges.

In the upcoming year, we will begin implementing a school achievement strategy that focuses on the

academic success of students in the community. People need to have knowledge of the educational

options and opportunities available for them and their families. This includes expanding our homework



and after-school activities, enhancing our school readiness programs, and growing our school-based

student and parent support activities. Construction of the new all-kindergarten school has begun in

Thorncliffe Park. When completed, this school will provide classroom and community-use space to

alleviate the overcrowding of Thorncliffe Park Public School, whose 2000 students make it the largest

elementary school in North America.

The work that we have completed in the past year and our plans for the coming year are the result

of the dedicated work of the TNO staff, volunteers, directors, and community members. They con-

tinue to be an inspiration and they provide us with the confidence that the coming year will be one

of opportunity, success, and celebration. Our funders and donors are key partners in our success.

Read the rest of this annual report to learn more about the activities and programs at TNO.

Bill Pashby Jehad Aliweiwi

Chair of the board executive director

Residents of Thorncliffe Park on average have

high education levels— 69% with post-secondary

education as compared with 49% city average.


THORNCLIFFE PARK has the largest number of children 14 and

under in Canada and Thorncliffe Park Public School is the largest

Public School in North America.

– Statistics Canada 2011 Census Report



Client Stories

AT TNO WE RELY ON THE HELP OF OUR VOLUNTEERS TO PROVIDE MANY

PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES INCLUDING COMPUTER CLASSES, WORKSHOPS,

AND RECEPTION COVERAGE. MANY PEOPLE FIND THAT VOLUNTEERING

IS THE MOST SATISFYING METHOD OF UTILIZING THEIR VALUABLE TIME,

ALLOWING THEM TO BENEFIT PERSONALLY AND ALSO TO GROW WITH

THE ORGANIZATION. VOLUNTEERING IS A MOST EFFECTIVE TOOL FOR

NETWORKING AND THE EFFORTS AND INITIATIVES OF OUR VOLUNTEERS

MAKE A SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY. OVER 200

VOLUNTEERS ASSISTED US IN 2011– 2012.



“My name is Jaweria Sultana and I am from India. I immigrated to Canada in

July 2011. I came here with my husband and three-year-old daughter. I chose to

settle in Thorncliffe because some of my friends are already here. The Thorncliffe

community is very helpful for new immigrants and the area specifically has all

the basic amenities accessible such as TNO, library, convenience stores, health

clinics, parks, and school. Initially after coming here I was depressed because of

loneliness in the new country. Then one of my neighbours suggested that I visit

TNO as they offer various settlement and employment services.

Jaweria Sultana

Our Registered School Readiness Program is a 5-week intensive program which offers parents, caregivers and

children the key skills to be successful in school.

We help parents get their children ready for school by presenting informative workshops on topics such as

understanding the school system and the TDSB curriculum, the importance of communicating and being involved

with the school, separation anxiety, routine and

self-help skills for their child, and healthy, nutritious eating habits.

We transform our centre into a school setting. The children are engaged in structured activities that are

similar to those they will encounter in school. The children build their self-esteem, develop a positive attitude,

and learn some key school readiness skills.

R E G I S T E R E D S C H O O L R E A D I N E S S P R O G R A M

90 children were served by the School Readiness Program in 2011–2012.

“Through TNO I came to know about OeYC [Ontario early Years Centres]. I

started taking my daughter regularly to OeYC. I am very proud to be a parent of a

child that attended and completed the School Readiness program at the OeYC.

This experience really prepared my daughter for kindergarten. The program pre-

pared her for school with indispensable educational knowledge. It also taught her

lifelong everyday knowledge essentials on how to survive in today’s society, such

as manners, importance of good hygiene, health, feelings, and compassion. The

parent workshops organized by OeYC are excellent. They are helpful and inform-

ative. After going to OeYC, I have made many new friends and now I am happy

that I have taken right decision in coming to this prosperous country.”



Karunanithy Kandappoo

Karunanithy Kandappoo or Karu is a sponsored parent (permanent resident)

who arrived in Canada from Sri lanka on february 24, 2011. After retiring from a

30-year teaching career in Sri lanka, he made a new home in Canada where he

plans to stay. he chose to live in Thorncliffe Park, believing that this will be a

good place for him and his family. being unfamiliar with the community, and with

no friends to connect and talk with, he learned about Thorncliffe Neighbourhood

Office from a new neighbour. he was referred to TNO for seniors’ programs

that would hasten his integration. In March 2011, Karu visited TNO and met the

settlement worker for seniors.

Projects and activities provided for seniors over the last year include: basic computer classes, English Conversa-

tion Circle, functional sign language, Shibashi (meditation exercise), fitness, drop-in activities (knitting, painting,

arts and crafts, bingo games), walking activities, breakfast specials, poetry reading, field trips

and others. A bigger component of TNO Seniors Programs includes informative and educational workshops like

various life skills workshops, elder abuse prevention, leadership training, empowerment sessions, CPP/OAS

workshops, nutrition workshops, fall prevention workshop, and planning ahead workshops.

Our Seniors Program at TNO also consists of seniors’ participation in cultural events like Asian heritage

celebration, Christmas party, cultural dances and Eid celebration. This inclusive seniors program provides support

to seniors from all socioeconomic levels and abilities, and helps those who feel isolated.

300 seniors participated in TNO’s Seniors Programs in 2011–2012.

S E N I O R S P R O G R A M

Through an intake and needs assessment done by the counsellor, an integration

plan was developed for Karu. With the encouragement of TNO, he joined and

registered for membership of TNO Seniors’ Network where he was able to partic-

ipate in different programs and projects of the New horizons for Seniors Program

and regular seniors programs which promote skills development, and health and

wellness. Karu became a regular client of TNO and was involved in workshops

and activities for seniors like basic computer classes, english Conversation

Circle, drop-in activities, Shibashi, nutrition workshops, fitness, field trips, and

elder abuse prevention, among others.



Karunanithy Kandappoo (continued)

Although Karu was already a senior, he desired to get a job in Canada to spend

his time productively, so he was referred to TNO employment Services for

résumé help and job search advice. he was very determined to get a job, and

became a full-time Security guard with Magnum Protective Services in October

2011. he was very happy and thankful to TNO for the support and direction

extended to him.

When Karu was interviewed by TNO’s settlement worker on July 25, 2012, to

share his success story, he said he wants to continue to attend more skills train-

ing at TNO during his days off from work. he wants to prove that seniors like

him can still go further. Age and begin-

ning english skills are not a deterrent

to getting a job or being actively in-

volved in the community. According to

him, he learned english better while

attending the english Conversation

Circle of TNO. “I was able to express myself better during the english Conversa-

tion Circle which helped me pass the interview for Security guard position.”

When asked for more training needs, he said that he is also very interested in

learning about sea navigation. he wishes to attend more english classes to

further improve his communication and interpersonal skills.

The story of Karunanithy Kandappoo is inspiring especially for seniors who

are new to Canada. his positive attitude and outlook in life has brought him to

where he is now. A simple senior with a simple dream of becoming a productive

citizen of Canada, Karu (in less than a year from his date of arrival) was able

to make a difference in his community, as he inspires other seniors to remain

strong and contribute.

He wants to prove that seniors like him can still go

further. Age and beginning English skills are not a

deterrent to getting a job or being actively involved

in the community.



Maliha Batool

“I came to Canada four years ago and started attending lINC [language

Instruction for Newcomers to Canada] level 6 and 7 class at TNO in 2010. I

graduated from lINC level 7 in June 2011. The reason for starting my classes

so late is that before I moved to Thorncliffe Park I was living in Markham.

“My first year in Canada was difficult as I was feeling lonely and bored at home,

I didn’t know where to start, because there was no one to guide me. Then we

moved to Thorncliffe Park as my husband’s job was near to this area.

“Within a week after shifting to Thorncliffe the Settlement Worker at Thorncliffe Public

School contacted me and I went to see her. It was through her that I came to know

about the lINC classes and then I decided to go to YMCA for an assessment.

“I joined the lINC class; I had a great time studying there. I made new friends and

had a wonderful class with unforgettable memories.

The LINC classroom instructions includes themes on Canada, Canadian geography and government, shopping,

housing, transportation, education, health and safety, environment, finding jobs, employment, commercial

services, Canadian holidays,

and banking. Some presentations by guest speakers included volunteering and consumer fraud. Field trips

were also made to the Ontario Science Centre.

L A N G U A G E I N S T R U C T I O N F O R N E W C O M E R S T O C A N A D A

“While attending lINC class I came to know about the internship program at

Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office. I applied for internship and got accepted. I did

my internship from May to June 2011 in the field of administration. I learned new

things. I got training and gained Canadian experience. Shortly after the comple-

tion of my internship one day I saw a job posting for a program administrator. I

decided to apply for that position.

“I went to TNO employment office to get help with my résumé and interview

preparation. I applied and fortunately got that job. Currently I am employed as

the Welcoming Communities Program Administrator at TNO.

“I would like to suggest that if there is any opportunity like volunteering or

internship just avail it, because volunteering is a great way to meet new people,

especially if you are new to an area. It will help you learn new skills.”

298 students attended the LINC Program in 2011–2012.



Iram

“The familiar culture and surroundings brought me and my family to this awesome

neighbourhood, which is so lively and unique. The most important reason why

we came to this neighbourhood is the transportation (T.T.C. or Toronto Transit

Commision). We didn’t have a car and were able to walk to the school, park,

mosque, grocery stores, banks, library, etc.

“As we were new to this neighbourhood, we wanted to know the surroundings area

better, we wanted to make friends and TNO took a big place in helping us with

that. My mom also attended some classes, programs, and events at TNO. A

worker at TNO helped my mom a lot by advising her to take an eCe course which

turned out to be great and helped my mom get a job in her field, which is teaching.

The program aims to foster the personal development of girls in four recurring themes: health and physical

activity, media literacy, women in science and technology,

and community action. The program provides a safe space and supports girls in building self-esteem, critical

thinking, and leadership skills.

80 girls participated in the Something for the Girlz program in 2011–2012.

S O M E T H I N G F O R T H E G I R L Z P R O G R A M

“One of the programs that I got to know first was a program for me, called

“Something for the girlz”. The services also helped my siblings and I join more

programs such as camps, leagues, etc. This helped us in making more friends.

“My experience in “Something for the girlz” was awesome and was an excellent

experience. I got to meet a lot of people and gain a lot of new skills. Personally

I was a bit shy, but after I started this program I became more confident. I loved

this program so much! I went to the program the year I came, and now I am in it

again as a mentor.

“I came back as a mentor because I enjoyed it so much, especially learning and

teaching one another. I’m even looking forward to mentoring and getting more

engaged with the youth centre as it is a place you can learn to build life skills.

“If I was to advise someone who is bored sitting at home, I would advise them

to come around and check out the events in TNO or the youth centre, because

there are a lot of things going on that you can discover!”



Shaista Iftikhar

“I am a Pakistani gynecologist and obstetrician (consultant doctor). I have 14

years of medical experience. I treated thousands of patients and did surgeries in

Pakistan. I came to Canada with my family (husband and two kids) in february

2012 as a permanent resident of Canada.

“One of our friends made arrangements to stay at Thorncliffe Park drive. he

also advised us to go to TNO for immediate guidance and help. I met with a

settlement worker, Miss Sadia Zafar, who gave me information which was very

beneficial for any newcomer to Canada. The information she gave me was

regarding school admission of kids, OhIP application, Child Tax benefit

application, transportation in Toronto and TNO employment Service office.

I am grateful for her kind attitude and professional help.

The program provides job search assistance through pre-employment group workshops and one-on-one

coaching. The objective of the program is to facilitate the employment of new

immigrants to Ontario and familiarize them with effective job-search practices and techniques in Canada

in a culturally appropriate manner.

128 people were served in the The Job Search Workshop in 2011–2012.

J O B S E A R C H W O R K S H O P

“I met with Job Search Workshop (JSW) facilitator (Pamela Polan) and case man-

ager (Angie Turner) at employment Service office. I attended TNO’s Job Search

Workshop, in March 2012. I learned a lot of information including résumé writing,

interview skills, and ways to job search. I also received follow-up services like job

postings via e-mail. I applied for a post told by Sadia Zafar (settlement worker)

and Pamela Polan (JSW facilitator) and got selected. I have been working as a

Peer leader with Cancer Awareness: Ready for education and Screening (CAReS)

Project, Women’s College hospital, St. Michael’s hospital, and Community

Partners since April 2012.

“I am also attending the mentoring circle for doctors at the TNO employment

Services to prepare for Canadian licensing exams. I’m thankful for TNO’s hard-

working staff that helped me at a time when I was depressed and in stages

of settlement. It was with the help and guidance of TNO that I got a job at

a Canadian hospital without having Canadian experience in one and a half

months of my Canadian arrival.”



Elcira

“Over the last year I received an important letter from the Association of early

Childhood educators of Ontario (AeCeO). In the process of looking over this

letter it came to my attention I would be attending the Occupation Specific

language Training (OSlT) classes at Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office.

“What brought me to TNO was a continuing education course (Occupation

Specific language Training Class) in my field of early Childhood education.

“during my class I developed great relationships with many different people

from various cultures. This helped my experience greatly. My professor had

many knowledgeable skills and techniques. This brought out the information

to make it aware and easy for us to comprehend. In the study process there

was a great group effort between everyone who worked on the TNO team.

They were greatly appreciated.

The bridging program was specially developed for individuals who are internationally trained as Early Childhood

Educators of kindergarten or elementary level

teachers and are facing barriers to enter the

Canadian ECE field of Early Childhood Education. This program recognizes and acknowledges participants’

previous skills and international education.

A total of 104 internationally educated participants from diverse backgrounds attended the bridging and

training groups offered by TNO in partnership with George Brown and AECEO in 2011– 2012.

104 participants attended the bridging and training groups in 2011–2012.

B R I D G I N G P R O G R A M F O R I N T E R N A T I O N A L LY

T R A I N E D E A R LY C H I L D H O O D E D U C A T O R S

“I am currently working full time at the Nursery School Centre. This next step

after this experience will help me to look forward to continuing the process of

my education in early Childhood.

“If you are in my position, I feel that you should not be afraid to take this step.

for instance english has been a struggle of mine, but I always push myself to

great extents to reach my future goals.”



Razia Amla

“I found out about the Community bazaar held in Thorncliffe Park from a cousin

of mine before I moved to Thorncliffe three years ago. I used to have a business

in India selling jewelry and clothing. I also held classes to teach sewing, glass

painting, and sponge origami. I decided to book a table for the bazaar after

moving to the community. I went to Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office and met

with Sabina, one of the members of the Thorncliffe Park Women’s Committee,

to book a stall for myself.

“Since then I have been a regular vendor participating in the Community bazaar

and other events organized by the Thorncliffe Park Women’s Committee. I sell

clothes and jewelry that are sent from my daughter in India who now runs my

business. The bazaar and other events that I attend allow me to get out, meet

people, be independent, and also make some extra money.

The Community Bazaar runs in partnership with Thorncliffe Park Women's Committee, Thorncliffe Neighbourhood

Office and Food Share. This market is a vital part of the social and economic fabric of our neighbourhood

and it includes activities for the children, performances, park cleanups, food and clothing vendors, and a

fresh food stall.

104 vendors participated in the Community Bazaar in 2011.

BAZAAR

“I would encourage everyone to participate in the Community bazaar, if not as a

vendor then just to come out, browse, and meet people.

“While being connected with the Thorncliffe Park Women’s Committee I have found

out about many other program and services held by Thorncliffe Neighbourhood

Office and the Committee that is beneficial to me. I am going to join the english

Conversation group, and will take part in the sewing lessons that will be offered

to the community. I have also attended diabetes workshops that have allowed me

to get more information on how to stay healthy and deal with diabetes.”


OPEN STREETS are programs where the streets are opened to people

and closed to cars. People traffic replaces car traffic, and the streets

become “paved parks” where people of all ages, abilities, and social,

economic, and ethnic backgrounds can come out and improve their

mental, physical, and emotional health.



Partnerships We Value

YOUNG CHILDREN AND YOUTH LEARN TO PLAY HOCKEY AND SOCCER

In 2010, former Nhl professional hockey player Steve Yzerman visited Thorncliffe Park to help Royal

bank donate skates, sticks, and helmets to the participants of TNO homework Club to alleviate the

parents’ financial burden of buying brand new hockey equipment.

Since then, Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office Youth Centre has continued to engage and support

children and youth in learning Canada’s beloved game. This year, TNO Youth Centre reached out to

upper Canada College (uCC) to venture into a unique partnership. Through uCC’s horizons program,

50 children from the Thorncliffe and flemingdon area were able to be a part of the leadership through

Sports program. In this program, students from uCC mentored students in ice hockey and soccer.

The hockey program ran for eight weeks with 30 grade 2 students attending on a regular basis.

The soccer initiative was a four-week program for girls aged 11 to 14 years old. This program had

20 participants. In each program children learned fundamental skills of the sport which would create

a stronger base to allow for better skill development.

This partnership encouraged dreams and kindled ambitions through positive interaction and mentorship.



THORNCLIFFE NEIGHBOURHOOD OFFICE’S PARTNERSHIP WITH

SOUTH RIVERDALE COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE

South Riverdale Community health Centre (SRChC) has provided interdisciplinary primary care

services in the Toronto Central local health Integration Network for around 40 years. It focuses on

clinical, social, economic, cultural, and educational initiatives that promote and foster health.

SRChC serves marginalized individuals and communities, including newcomer communities.

The partnership between SRChC and TNO works at the interface between health and settlement and

strives to create equitable access to newcomers and families facing multiple barriers to maintaining

good health and accessing health care.

Some specific benefits of this partnership include:

• Access to primary health care for newcomer families in the Thorncliffe area who are uninsured

and/or have difficulties accessing health care

• Access to obstetric care for pregnant, uninsured women from the Thorncliffe and Crescent

Town areas

• Service collaboration to facilitate health care access and enhance settlement service access to

students at the City Adult learning Centre

• South Asian healthy living workshops comprised of hands-on knowledge and skill-building

regarding healthy diets and physical activity for both the Thorncliffe and Crescent Town

communities

• Social work and counselling support to newcomers referred to SRChC by TNO

• Referrals for settlement-related services from SRChC to TNO

• health screening for children up to six years at the St. James Town Community Corner serving

a high density, newcomer immigrant neighbourhood

The partnership has been mutually beneficial in that it has helped SRChC reach out to newcomer

communities, and has helped TNO facilitate better access to health care for the newcomers that they

serve. Above all, this partnership has succeeded in reducing barriers for newcomer communities

who are dealing with the challenges of resettlement.



RE-IMAGINING THE NEIGHBOURHOOD:

THORNCLIFFE NEIGHBOURHOOD OFFICE AND DIASPORIC GENIUS

In September 2011, after many months of planning, development, and ally building, diasporic genius

(dg) launched into the world — and the Thorncliffe Community. With the support of the Ontario Trillium

foundation, Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office (TNO) and dg partnered in the 21st Century Village

Square Pilot Project.

The goal of this project is to develop a neighbourhood-specific, community-created and story-

inspired centre of learning, celebration, commerce, markets, food, local agriculture, architecture, art,

music, theatre, and science in Thorncliffe Park. These Village Squares begin with story, are experiential

and programmatic, and aim for the eventual development of a new form of community-based

infrastructure — the potential catalysts of a connected, multifaceted civic transformation.

The core activity of the 21st Century Village Square Pilot Project is the Story Circle. These weekly

Story Circles, populated by local residents, are grounded in the belief that the most important factor

in social, cultural, and infrastructure development is a community engaged and empowered through

its own creativity. We see the Circles as the means to tap into the wisdom and energy that is buried

in the untold stories that people carry with them — they are also the essential tools to access the

underlying cultural dNA that can teach us new ways of building community.

diasporic genius has hosted and participated in two lively celebrations in the community. The festival

of Story, grounded in the personal stories of local residents, opened the opportunity for community

members to get to know each other through interaction and celebration. The program at R.V. burgess

Park included story circles, traditional storytelling, craft-making for all ages, a community parade, and

live musical performances. Then in July, dg brought creative community engagement projects to the

Neighbours Night Out/Open Streets festival. The activities included; Intersection reCreation (a giant

mural based on community stories); drumming and singing workshops; Create It Now! family craft

table; community-wide parade; and a live performance by the dg Cross-Cultural extravaganza.



ST. JAMES TOWN COMMUNITY CORNER

St. James Town Community Corner is an evolving hub in the busy, densely populated, diverse

neighbourhood of St. James Town, boasting a model partnership between residents and service

agencies. It serves as a pilot, capable of application in other diverse, low- and mixed-income

neighbourhoods.

The Corner, which opened its doors in 2011, is staffed through the City of Toronto employment and

Social Services program, with coordination and office management provided by the lead agency,

Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office, and other agency partners from the steering committee.

Presently, The Corner is a place to meet, teach and learn, connect, celebrate, and organize. It

is “owned by everyone” and “owned by no one.” everyone in the neighbourhood has access to the

space, but no one individual or group has exclusive use of its resources — program and meeting

rooms, a community kitchen, public access computers, and reception services, etc. every day sees

a variety of activities — people dropping in to ask for information, a local dance group, seniors

programs, health promotion groups for women, or a community meeting. There is a constantly

changing array of constructive activity for anyone and everyone.

The energy generated by the Corner is invigorating and contagious, and one cannot help being

optimistic regarding the prospects for this inclusive, collaborative community initiative. It is a model

that is definitely one of a kind!



TNO AND CELESTICA MENTORING PARTNERSHIP

The Celestica –TNO Mentoring program was developed and designed to meet the needs of the large

number of internationally educated professionals who live in the Thorncliffe Park community. We

leveraged our employment Ontario program to identify clients who were being case managed and

who expressed interest in a mentoring opportunity.

We also selected the clients on the following criteria:

• Clients with IT/hR/finance/engineering professional backgrounds

• Years of experience — mid-level professionals with at least five years of experience

• education and professional credentials that match mid-level professional experience

• New to Canada — arrival within the last three years and therefore lacking networking/

mentoring contacts

• New to Canadian job search strategies

The one-to-one mentoring event took place on June 14th at Celestica with 22 TNO clients and 22

Celestica employees participating. The session was a great success and feedback from the TNO

clients was very positive:

• We received valuable résumé feedback — even praise!

• good tips on how to rearrange and prioritize relevant information on the résumé.

• Mentors shared their own experiences on how they’ve changed careers, leveraging transferable

skills, and reinventing themselves as relevant candidates in their new career fields.

We are now beginning the next stage of the program — practical mentoring. Twelve TNO clients

will be matched with mentors and receive mentoring for 30 minutes a week for eight weeks at

Celestica. each Celestica mentor will also identify several on-the-job mentoring activities for the

TNO client to complete.

At the end of this program Celestica will offer an internship

to several of these TNO clients.



R.V. BURGESS PARK—A COMMUNITY HUB

Thorncliffe Park Women’s Committee is now in its fourth year of programming. It has been a driving

force in revitalizing R.V. burgess Park which has now become the hub of activity.

According to 2011 census data, Thorncliffe Park has more children 14 and under than any other cen-

sus tract in Toronto. The park now has playground equipment from the leaside Park and a renovated

splash pad which is heavily used by the children in this neighbourhood. early this year, new swings

were installed for the children and the water fountain is in working condition.

during summer evenings the park is packed with children and families. friday markets bring life to the

community with women vendors selling clothing, jewelry, and food, and children busy with arts and

crafts sessions or getting ready to watch a performance or buying fresh produce for just 10 cents.

The park has become a vibrant gathering place for people to meet with neighbours from different

cultures, share information, enjoy food and celebrate. There are more opportunities for children and

adults with our month-old Thorncliffe family garden, our outdoor tandoor oven, and our sewing studio.

The tandoor oven is an open-air cooking device traditionally used in many cultures ranging from the

Middle east to Central and South Asia. In a tall clay pot with a fire at the bottom, insulated to keep

the heat in, various foods such as bread, grilled/roasted meat, and vegetables are made.

All these are made possible by the dedicated members of the Women’s Committee with the support

of the people in the neighbourhood and their partnership with TNO, Ontario Trillium foundation, City

of Toronto, food Share, and friends of other Toronto parks.



Other Projects:

• Art project “Of Food and Form”: In early february, women from the neighbourhood created art

about food. Six creative workshops in clay were led by two Toronto artists, Samina Mansuri and

Amelia Jiménez. The resulting art pieces reflect their traditions, knowledge, and experiences with

food, dishes, and ceremonies.

• Canning Workshop: food Share offered a canning workshop for the women where they learned

to preserve fruits and vegetables safely and economically.

RESILIENT NEIGHBOURHOOD ECONOMIES (RNE) PROJECT

Inclusive Local Economy in Thorncliffe Park: Toward a Resilient Neighbourhood Local Economy—A New Direction for Thorncliffe Park

Metcalf foundation has recently launched a new collaborative project called Resilient Neighbourhood

economies in two areas of the City of Toronto—Thorncliffe Park and Kingston-galloway Orton Park.

Metcalf foundation will work in partnership with two neighbourhood groups—Thorncliffe Neighbour-

hood Office (TNO) and east Scarborough Store front as well as a number of city-level partners like

the Centre for City ecology—to collectively create sustainable economic opportunities for low-income

people through building a more robust local economy and linking it to the broader regional economy.

Specifically, the Resilient Neighbourhood Economies project aims to:

• Take advantage of emerging opportunities and link motivated people to key resources at the

neighbourhood and city levels;

• Provide small sums of financial support to the initiatives that develop out of these creative

problem-solving efforts;

• Strengthen the working web of connections that enable local communities to respond creatively

to the current economic needs of all community members and to adapt effectively to changing

economic circumstances.


INTERFAITH DIALOGUE GROUP

Thorncliffe Park, Flemingdon Park, and surrounding communities

The Interfaith dialogue group was established in July 2011 by a small group of Thorncliffe Neighbour-

hood Office (TNO) staff. They wanted to encourage staff members to learn about and appreciate each

other’s religious faith and practices. The series of initial group meetings provided an opportunity for

the members to share their own religious practices, beliefs, and community traditions. Interested

community members representing faith-based groups in Thorncliffe and flemingdon Park were later

invited to attend the meetings. The members drafted the

group Mission and Vision Statement. Its goal is to build trust

and openness, and to work together to build bridges of

understanding, respect, and collaboration among diverse

faith communities in Thorncliffe Park, flemingdon Park, and

surrounding communities.

The group adopted the following objectives to guide its activities:

1) celebrate the diversity of various faiths and religions in the community and provide a forum

for sharing experiences, strengthening common ground through similarities;

2) facilitate building bridges within and among faith groups and encourage networking;

3) work towards overcoming prejudice and discrimination;

4) connect and build awareness about community issues, affirm the ideas of social justice and

the importance of promoting a culture of dialogue within and among all faith communities

and traditions.




Community Involvement

THE WORLD WITHIN A NEIGHBOURHOOD

THORNCLIFFE EMBODIES DIVERSITY WITHIN DIVERSITY. WE FACILITATE COMMUNITY

CONNECTIONS, CROSS-CULTURAL DIALOGUES THROUGH NEIGHBOUR-LED ACTIVITIES,

FESTIVALS, AND MEETINGS. WE PROVIDE SPACE TO ENGAGE IN DIALOGUE, LEADING

TO COMMON ASPIRATIONS AND VISIONS FOR THE NEIGHBOURHOOD.

TNO WON THE 2012 UN ITED WAY SP IR IT AWARD

Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office received the Spirit Award from the united Way

of greater Toronto for its 2011 Campaign. The Spirit Awards honour the inspira-

tion and passion that was evident in last year’s campaign, which was the most

successful campaign in TNO’s history. The TNO campaign team took some of the

best practices in fundraising and tailored them to fit their organizational and work-

place culture. from the innovative bowling event that was creative in promoting

team spirit while being fun, to the five-star luncheon hosted by staff member Afie

Mardukhi and the TNO director, Jehad Aliweiwi. Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office also provided extensive support to

united Way Toronto’s campaign in almost every way possible and helped to build awareness about the impact of our

work in the community to workplace campaigns across the city. The campaign focused on one-on-one canvassing, and

even encouraged pledges of over $1,000 achieving an outstanding participation rate of 100 percent. Staff members deep-

ened their relationship with the clients they serve by involving them in the campaign—partnering with a nearby school

and involving students in the campaign. The total amount raised was $18,000, an increase of 60% from the previous year.

TNO participated in the following events (left to right): Walk a Mile in her Shoes, United Way CN Tower Climb, World Refugee Day,

Neighbours’ Night Out, Jane’s Walk and 20 Minute Makeover


“Kids Rule Thorncliffe Park”

– Toronto Star headline on May 30, 2012



THORNCLIFFE NEIGHBOURHOOD OFFICE IS A MULTI-SERVICE, MULTI-

LINGUAL COMMUNITY CENTRE. ALL OF OUR SERVICES ARE FREE AND

AVAILABLE IN MORE THAN 20 LANGUAGES. WE OFFER A BROAD RANGE

OF PROGRAMS THAT FALL INTO FOUR BASIC SERVICE AREAS: CHILD,

FAMILY AND YOUTH SERVICES, AND INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES— SOCIAL

SUPPORT SERVICES. ON THE FOLLOWING PAGES, YOU WILL READ

SUMMARIES OF EACH PROGRAM AREA FOR 2011– 2012.

The entry point into all of our services is reception at our various locations. TNO is dedicated to

offering warm, inclusive service to all of our clients as soon as they walk in the door. As the following

numbers demonstrate, TNO is a hub of activity in the heart of the Thorncliffe Park Community.

At any one of our locations on an average day:

The phone rings 110 times.

60 clients come in to use the computer.

21 faxes get sent out for clients.

10 clients use the courtesy phone.

29 people come in for Settlement Services.

Programs and Services



Child, Family, and Youth

Support Services

OVERV IEW : The Child and Family team works to better the lives of all

families in the Thorncliffe Park Neighborhood and its surroundings.

Our client-centred approach makes sure each individual accessing our

services is treated with dignity, respect, and an inclusive attitude. Our

Parent Advisory Group also keeps us in tune with the neighbourhood,

informing us of the needs and concerns of the community and making

sure we are always listening to Thorncliffe Park.

ONTARIO EARLY YEARS CENTRE

The OeYC provides a supportive network for parents and care providers of children from birth to

six years of age. We offer free early learning opportunities and literacy programs to promote school-

readiness skills.

At OeYC, we also provide support and services for children with special needs.

VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

The VAW Program provides crisis intervention and counselling, and arranges priority housing for

women who have experienced or are currently experiencing an abusive relationship.

OVER THE RAINBOW

Over The Rainbow Program builds on the ideas of creating a safe and relaxing atmosphere for

children who have encountered trauma which has affected their social and emotional development.

2,414 children made 15,731 visits to the OEYC in 2011–2012.

1,921 parents/caregivers made 12,358 visits to the OEYC.

1,006 parents/caregivers participated in workshops and seminars

provided by the OEYC.

88 new clients were served by the Violence Against Women Counsellor.

103 new clients were served by the Violence Against Women Transitional

Housing Support Worker in 2011–2012.

28 parents and 30 children were served in 2011–2012.

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HOMEWORK CLUB

homework Club focuses strongly on helping children with their homework by providing daily tutoring

in literacy, math, and french, along with the opportunity to play.

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT PROGRAM

Mental health services are offered to individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic

stress disorder, anger management issues, abuse, addiction, grief, and relationship issues.

ENGLISH CONVERSATION AND LITERACY ENHANCEMENT GROUP

The english Conversation and literacy enhancement program runs twice a week for residents of the

Thorncliffe Park Community. Children attend a parallel program to engage in literacy while their

parents attend the conversation group.

GROWING TOGETHER PROGRAM

growing Together is a structured play-based program for children with developmental and special

needs. Children and their families are introduced to encourage and enhance language, social,

behavioural, cognitive, sensory, and motor skills.

The program embraces exceptionalities and focuses on the child’s individual needs. Needs are

informally assessed and goals are created with the parents. Parents learn to adapt and apply

strategies to support their child’s development.

The Special Needs Resource Teacher provides information and community resource referrals.

258 children attended the Homework Club in 2011–2012.

45 Children attended the March Break Camp in 2012.

425 clients were served in 2011–2012.

353 adults and 274 children were served in 2011–2012.

114 children were served in 2011–2012.



Youth Centre Services

OVERV IEW : Coming of age is a challenging and exciting milestone for

young people. As they begin planning for future success in school, careers,

and community, youth can face daunting social pressure, economic limita-

tions, and barriers to success. Consistent with our belief that youth use

creativity and imagination in their approach to pressures, TNO Youth Centre

focuses on harnessing young people’s innovative spirit. For over five years,

the Youth Centre has served as a safe space to engage in leadership,

educational, recreational, and social activities that enhance success.

SOMETHING FOR THE GIRLZ PROGRAM

Something for the girlz Program (SfTg) program, funded by the Canadian Women’s foundation

for 12- to 14-year-old girls from Thorncliffe Park and flemingdon Park, aims to foster the personal

development of girls in four recurring themes: health and physical activity, media literacy, women

in science and technology, and community action. The program provides a safe space and supports

girl in building self-esteem, critical thinking, and leadership skills.

LIZ PASHBY MUSIC PROGRAM (JAM SESSIONS)

TNO’s Music Program “Jam Sessions” gives an outlet for youth in the neighbourhood to explore

their interest in music. The participants range from beginners who have never played an instrument

to experts who play multiple instruments. Teachers from the Ontario Institute for Studies in education

(OISe) volunteer every week and give vocal lessons, and teach students how to read music and play

various instruments. This program was made possible by generous donations of family and friends

of the late liz Pashby, a lover of music.

COMMUNITY KITCHEN

The Community Kitchen Program was originally designed to encourage boys ages 15 to 21 to

increase their participation in programs that provide hands-on life skills training. In these sessions,

youth learn to prepare and cook healthy nutritious meals. At the same time, youth gain the

opportunity to increase their social and leadership skills through various workshops offered.

80 girls were reached in this ongoing weekly program in 2011–2012.

45 youth participated 198 times in the Jam Sessions in 2011–2012.

30 youth participated 220 times in the Community Kitchen in 2011–2012.

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VOICES AND FREE-GIRLS’ SPACE

Voices and The free-girls’ Space is an integrated time and space program for girls 13 to 24 years of

age. The program’s activities involve yoga, creative writing, recreation, exploring careers, and building

self-confidence. Voices specifically is broken into sessions aimed at helping girls cope with transitioning

from girl to woman, finishing high school, and entering post-secondary education. The goal of this pro-

gram is to engage some of our mature female youth as mentors and provide a safe female-only environ-

ment for them to have their voices heard while learning about community engagement. This is achieved

through creative means such as making clay sculptures, and reading and listening to biographies of

Canadian career women. The aim is to alleviate the pressure and stress of focusing on only one area of

study or career, by helping girls realize the importance of exploring a variety of fields and jobs.

ONE-TO-ONE TUTORING

The One-to-One Tutoring Program is a successful free resource for students in the Thorncliffe and

flemingdon area. The program is run by former Youth Centre participants that are now university

students. These youth volunteer their time, knowledge, and expertise to help youth in the community

strengthen their academic and social aspirations. One-to-One Tutoring provides assistance in math,

science, english, french, and other subjects. The tutoring program also provides youth with the

opportunity to increase their social network, build self-esteem and gain important insight on

post-secondary life.

SPORTS PROGRAMS

At least 50 youth in soccer, 80 in basketball, and 25 in hockey participated in sports activities a

combined 1,401 times in 2011– 2012.

SENIORS AND COMPUTERS INTERGENERATIONAL PROGRAM

This program is designed to bridge the gap between seniors and youth. Its intentions are to help new-

comer youth increase their self-esteem and leadership skills through teaching, and for seniors to learn

how to participate in this social media world that we are living in. The program brings youth and sen-

iors together to share thoughts, ideas, and experiences. This is a 10-week program that is ongoing

throughout the year.

23 youth participated 176 times in the Voices Program in 2011–2012.

100 youth benefited 352 times from the One-to-One Tutoring Program in

2011–2012.

155 youth participated soccer, basketball, and hockey 1,401 times in

2011–2012.

40 participants including youth and seniors participated in the Seniors and

Computers program in 2011–2012.



Employment and Language

Training Services

OVERV IEW : Employment and community economic development are key

standards of wellbeing. Income security and labour market conditions have

a direct impact on individual and family success. Our employment and lan-

guage support services provide job-seekers with labour market knowledge

and customized responses to employment barriers.

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

We offer the provincially funded employment Ontario (eO) Services, funded through Ministry of

Training, Colleges and universities (MTuC).

TNO is a fully funded employment Ontario organization offering employment-specific services

(Information and Referral, Assisted Services) to youth, students, adults, and newcomers. TNO also

provides employment specific workshops for newcomers through the federally funded Job Search

Workshop program. As part of this service we offer regular workshops on the following topics:

• Résumé clinics

• Interview skills/mock interviews

• how to create a winning profile for linked In

• how to Market Yourself

• Computer training: excel I and II, Microsoft I and II

TNO JOB SEARCH WORKSHOP

The Job Search Workshop (JSW) program provides job search assistance through pre-employment

group workshops and one-on-one coaching. The objective of the program is to facilitate the

employment of new immigrants and familiarize them with effective job-search practices and tech-

niques in Canada in a culturally appropriate manner.

1,540 clients were served through the Employment Program in 2011–2012.

344 clients were Case Managed.

1121 clients attended Resource and Information Workshops.

75 clients attended Resume Clinics.

198 clients were employed.

128 clients were served in the JSW Program in 2011–2012.

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THE BRIDGING PROGRAM FOR INTERNATIONALLY TRAINED EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS

The bridging Program was specially developed for individuals who are internationally trained as

early Childhood educators, kindergarten, or elementary level teachers, and are facing barriers to enter

the Canadian field of early Childhood education (eCe). This program recognizes and acknowledges

participants’ skills and international education.

LANGUAGE INSTRUCTIONS FOR NEWCOMERS TO CANADA (LINC) PROGRAM

The lINC classroom instruction includes themes on Canada, Canadian geography, government,

shopping, housing, transportation, education, health and safety, environment, finding jobs, employ-

ment, commercial services, Canadian holidays, and banking. Some presentations by guest speakers

included volunteering, consumer fraud, and employment services. field trips were made to City hall,

the ROM, and Ontario Science Centre.

104 students attended the bridging program in 2011–2012.

298 students attended the LINC program in 2011–2012.

I joined the LINC class and I had a great time

studying there. I made new friends and had a

wonderful class with unforgettable memories.

– Maliha batool, lINC participant



Newcomer Support Services

OVERV IEW : Facing a new country and a new language with your family

or on your own can be a confusing and disorienting experience. For more

than 25 years, TNO has been assisting immigrants and refugees settling in

Thorncliffe and surrounding communities. Our services are designed to

support healthy social, economic, and cultural integration, and to enable

positive contributions to Canadian society and the community.

CITIZENSHIP CLASSES

Citizenship classes help prepare newcomers for the citizenship test. Our counsellors create strate-

gies that make it easy and fun for students to learn and understand the material they will need to

know for the Canadian Citizenship Test.

MULTICULTURAL WOMEN’S GROUP

The Multicultural Women’s group’s goal is to create an environment in which women can support

each other through building friendships and social networks.

SETTLEMENT SERVICES

Settlement Services assists immigrant settlement and integration by delivering direct services to

immigrants such as reception, orientation, translation, interpretation, referral to community resources,

solution-focused counselling, general information, and employment-related services. These could

include workshops, research projects, or staff training programs.

THE WELCOME AND INFORMATION FOR NEWCOMERS (WIN) PROGRAM

The Welcome and Information for Newcomers (WIN) program, a one-day orientation program for middle-

grade students and their parents, was delivered at Valley Park Middle School in September 2011.

The activities are geared to students and parents. Parents learn the basics about timetables, student

agendas, activity fees, and more from peer leaders. Teachers help parents understand the eSl

program. Students learn school routines, locker use, expectations, and responsibilities.

790 clients attended the citizenship classes in 2011–2012.

73 participants attended the WIN Program in 2011.

75 women participated in the program in 2011–2012.

16,104 newcomers were served by our counsellors in 2011–2012.

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NEWCOMER ORIENTATION WEEK (NOW) PROGRAM

The Newcomer Orientation Week (NOW) Program is one most innovative youth programs. The four-

day program provides orientation to newly arrived high school students and their parents during the

last week of August before the school year starts. This is an extension of the Settlement Workers in

Schools summer program and has an extensive curriculum including a passport exercise specific to

each school that navigates students to various locations (main office, computer room, gym, etc.)

familiarizing youth with the school layout, correctly answering questions in order to get their passport

stamped. Newcomers also learn about school rules, graduation requirements, extracurricular activi-

ties, how to use a lock (for their locker), healthy lunches, and school routines.

Settlement workers organize the program in conjunction with the assistance of teachers who are the

key to school information and student safety. The curriculum also looks at certain Canadian norms

that newcomers may not be aware of. Peer leaders organize skits and introduce inclusion in school

settings encouraging positive messaging, the gym routine, what change rooms are, respect, and pri-

vacy. In partnership with the Toronto Public library, youth participate in a field trip where they learn to

access the closest library to their community, and receive library cards and any necessary orientation.

On the last day, participants showcase their achievements via some form of entertainment for their

parents and community members. TNO gives youth a backpack filled with essential school supplies

and a certificate of participation that they find helpful in their new journey. This program is led by peer

leaders who undergo leadership training the week before the program. The peer leaders are newcom-

ers themselves and understand the anxiety associated with moving to a new country, starting a new

school, and making new friends.

The NOW program is extremely effective at greeting students and introducing them to a welcoming

community. It eases the transition and alleviates the apprehension of newcomer youth by submersing

them in Canadian culture in a fun and effective way.

251 participants attended the NOW program in 2011.

Today, Thorncliffe Park is home to immigrants

from India, Pakistan, Philippines, Colombia,

Sudan, and a fast-growing Afghan community.

– bill Pashby, Chair of the board for Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office


Federal Government Funding 58.66%

City of Toronto 1.92%

Foundations 2.33%

Provincial Government Funding 25.36%

Sources of Revenue

Fiscal Year – 2011- 2012

Distribution of Expenditures

Fiscal Year – 2011- 2012

T H O R NC L I F F E N E I G H BO U R HOOD O F F I C E

Direct Service Delivery Cost87.88%

United Way 9.31%

Sundry Income and Interest 2.42%

Office and General Administration Cost 5.19%

Rent and Occupancy Expenses6.92%



Expenditures

Insurance

Office and general

Professional fees

Program expenses

Rent and occupancy costs

Repairs and maintenance

Salaries and salary costs

Telephone

Amortization

Total Expenditures

Excess of revenues over expenses

$ 39,395 $ 35,623

93,913 58,504

16,111 15,250

445,665 576,650

424,325 440,551

80,862 80,386

4,939,520 5,024,230

53,606 53,261

34,342 138,780

6,127,739 6,423,235

$ 23,279 $ 165,921

STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES(A registered charitable organization)

Year ended March 31, 2012

Financials

Revenues

federal government funding

City of Toronto

foundations

gala fundraising

Provincial government — per schedule

Sundry income and interest

united Way

Total Revenues

$ 3,608,355 $ 4,117,242

118,204 92,109

143,153 281,307

– 110,630

1,560,038 1,352,124

148,680 50,278

572,588 585,466

$ 6,151,018 $ 6,589,156

2012 2011



TNO Board Members, Volunteers, and Placement Students 2011–2012

TNO VOLUNTEERS

Abbas Wahla

Abid Ananda

Abid hashimi

Affan Rabbi

Ali erfancy

Alzbeta Kerekesova

Amal Mohammed-Ahmed

Amina Ali

Amy Ruth Sanchez

Anina guzz

Anthony Simba

Areesha Sabir

beatriz Ospina

bernando h. Clemeate

beti Meng Steab

blikis Nahar

Carol Tsin

Cazar Trpkoshi

Chaim fachler

deyon Smith

douglas Stewart

erilita decena

fahima

faizan Rabbi

farah Kashaf

farhan M. hafizullah

farheen Adnan

fatean Yousif Salmean

fathima Kamaradheen

fauzia Pathan

fouzia Sultan

frial Alchaml

gabriela franke

gaydorunissa

gloria Riveres

gnanaviathaai Sivagnaman

haji Mohammad

hala huddad

hanan bahr

hassan Rabbi

hyejin Song

Ida Martin

Jacqueline Czeglen

Jemima Seyindemi

Jennifer Ann d’cunha

Karen Arogan duran

Maham Shah

Mahboob unissa

Mahtab Sajid

Mamun Mamunuraham

Manam Shah

Mansour Samani

Maryam gillogihari

Marzyeh Azimi

Medina Abdel g.

Mohammad fasiuddin

Monica ganguly

Morvi Caterpany

Mosa begum

Muhammad Afzal

Muhammad Kaleem Ishaque

Muhammad Zahangir

Nahida Jalie

Noor Al-Khafagi

Padmesh Ramanujam

Pauelia Khaled

Petya Ignatora (Khadija)

Poongody Aruh-Thavanthan

Ravinder Kaur Sabharwal

Rizwana firdous

Rukhsar Rukhsar

Samiha Mirza

Samit hazra

Sana Wajid

Santharani Ariyaratnamm

Sara Azimi

Saskia Stille

Seyedeh Masoumeh

Shafiq Qalandari

Shoaib Rahime

Sidra Riffat

Sofia Aslam

Syed eshssen Mirabolghus

Syeda Amna fayyaz

Syeda farzeen Zubair

Taimoor Mirza

Tameen Razi

Tina lyronis

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair: bill Pashby

Vice Chair: Sofian Mustafa

Treasurer: Rubina habib

Secretary: Neena locke

Member at large: Nadine hare

Member at large: Roxanne labrie

Member at large: Tim lute

Member at large: Zaid Majoo

Member at large: Ian Mcbride

Member at large: Pat Moore



Youth Voluntees

Aamir Mohammed

Abdul Aziz Ayub

Abdullah Ayub

Adil

Adil Khodki

Aditi Zahir

Afifa bari

Afifa Rahmatullah

Afra Nawar

Ahdifa

Ahmad Ayobee

Aisha Iqbal

Alamgir Khandwala

Ali erfancy

Aliza hassan

Amna Syed

Angeline Mariano

Anwar Mohamed

Areeba Sabir

Areesha Sabir

Arfa Aslam

Arsalan Kaham

Arslaan Ali

Ashique baten

Asma Abidi

Ayesha Asif

bilal Qureshi

branko Risteski

danyal Tanveer

diyana Ziyauclin

dooa Abdoul hassan

faiza Azam

farhan Shaikh

fariha Akond

fariha Mahbub

farva fayyaz

fatima Shahid

fizza usman

hadi Amiri

hajra basharat

hameeda Nabie Zadah

hamza Khan

hamza Sohail

hamza farooq

hanaa diwan

harris Shahid

hassan Abbas

hassan bin Muqoom

hassan Khan

hemat hamid

Irfan Ali

Isaiah Robinson

Ismetullah Rehmatullah

Jabar foster

Janelle bachelor

Jareenmarie hussain

Junaid Saleem Khan

Kedar Kandel

Keiren

Khadeejah Muzamil

Khadija Aziz

Khadija Syed

Khizar elahi

Khyber hakimzadah

Kinza Asif

Kowshik Khan

linda

Madiha Chaudry

Maham fatima

Maheen fatima

Mahnoor farooq

Mahram Ali Adelgar

Mairah Khan

Maivak K.

Manuel Avenajo

Maryam Alam

Marzyeh Samira Azimi

Masooma Shah

Masoumen (Salmaz) Azimi

Mehak Zara

Mehrab Ali

Mishal dar

Mohammad usman

Mohammaed Imran

Mohammed Seedat

Morige Malik

Muhamamad Ahmed Siddiqui

Muhammad Waleed

Mumbasshirea Nawar

Munazza Abbasi

Nabeela Allidina

Nasim Amin

Naveen Ahmed Sarah lulat

Nazakat Ali

Nazneen Najak

Nicholas Sagar

Nick Munyoori

Nishat Kazi

Noorhaniya Popal

Nooria Adel

Noureen

Omar el Sarraf

Orooj

Owais farooq

Padmesh Ramanujam

Paul James Ambrose

Paula lopez

Rafa Ananna

Rafeed Motasim

Rafia Riaz

Rafid Riaz

Rakeen Ahmed

Razi Abbasi

Safia Sabir

Sakib Chaudry

Sakina Abidi

Salman Amjad

Salman Mohammad

Saman

Samiha Mirza

Samita hirji

Sara Azimi

Sara Noorzai

Selina george

Shabina bhaiyat

Shafiq fidai

Shafiq Qalandari

Shagofa berna

Shahroze Saeed

Shajar Ahsan

Shala Khaliqzada

Shamama Azeemi

Shawn Santuohay

Shazia beechi

Shermah griffith

Shoaib Rahime

Silina Omar

Sima Safi

Sodaba Abdul fatah

Subak lodhi

Suha Rabbani

Sulaiman

Suraj Kandula

Surya Ahluwalia

Tahir Kafil

Taimoor Mirza

Tasneem Khan

Tooba Javed

Touba Tarique

Trismala lulla

Wafa Wahab

Wahid Azizi

Wardah Sardar

Yalda dorani

Yalda durani

Yasamin berna

Yoel Tefera ghebrecristos

Yusuf

Zabiullah Agha

Zackariya Patel

Zainab Afzal

Zia Atif

Co-op, Intern and Placement Students

foryda Akhtar

furkan Ahmed

geri Voci

humera Azeem

Jamila Stephen

Kamal Rahmanzadeh

lakshmi hariaharan

Osman Osman

Quazi fil Akman

Sadia Kashif

Saima Waqar

Stephanie leonard

Susan lee

Zarina Cheshty


ANNuAl RePORT 2011 – 2012 | 43

TNO Funders, Partners and Donors,Memberships and Affiliations

Canadian Association for the

Advancement of Women and

Sport and Physical Activity

Canadian Women’s foundation

Citizenship and Immigration Canada

City of Toronto

employment Ontario

Maytree

Metcalf foundation

Ministry of Children and Youth Services

Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration

Ministry of education

Ministry of Community and Social

Services

Ministry of Training, Colleges and

universities

Ontario Trillium foundation

RbC financial group

RbC After School grants Program

Service Canada

united Way Toronto

Wrigley

FUNDERS

Canadian Association of Pakistani

Origin

darul Al Salam Mosque

don Valley Women of Nations

east York Town Centre

Jenner Jean-Marie Community Centre

Thorncliffe filipino-Canadian Seniors’

Club

Thorncliffe food bank

Thorncliffe Park Chapel housing

Thorncliffe Park Citizenship Committee

Thorncliffe Park day Care Centre

Thorncliffe library

Thorncliffe Park Public School

Thorncliffe Park Public School Parent

Association

Thorncliffe Park Tenant’s Association

Thorncliffe Park united Church

Thorncliffe Park Women’s Committee

CORPORATE MENTORS AND PARTNERS

NEIGHBOURHOOD PARTNERS

Celestica Coca Cola Canada davis + henderson (d+h)

53 division, Toronto Police Service

Afghan Women’s Organization

Alliance for South Asian Aids Prevention

(ASAAP)

Applegrove Community Complex

Association of early Childhood

educators Ontario (AeCeO)

bangladeshi-Canadian Community

Services

better living Centre

blessed John XXIII Catholic School

bob Rumball Centre for the deaf

Children’s Aid Society of Toronto

Community Care east York

Community MicroSkills development

Centre

Council of Agencies Serving

South Asians (CASSA)

Crescent Town Club

Cycle 26

diasporic genius

don Mills employment Resource Centre

The donway Covenant united Church

evergreen brick Works

family Supports Institute Ontario

flemingdon Community legal Services

flemingdon health Centre

flemo City Media

food Share

george brown College

COMMUNITY AND SERVICE PARTNERS



Anna C. Naud

Arif Virani

Ava Sands

barbara Oyler

barbara Stronach

barbara Vivian Thompson

beatrice lawford

borell limited Partnership

brenda e. gross

brian W. fleming

Canadian Institute of Reading Recovery

Carolyn J. Crum

Central 1 Credit union

d.e. Jeffreys

daphne Jarvis

david bull

david g. Roost

david Walsh

david William fortire

diane letsche

donald fraser holman

dr. Robert C. Pashby

elizabeth (buffy) Moore and

Craig Mitchell

erwin bohnet

frank hepditch

gary g. donalld

george Cedric Metcalf

harvey barry gales

helen eckert

humphrey funeral home

Ian C.P. Sturdee

Iqbal halal foods

J. Scott Rogers

James Martin

Jane e. Pashby

Janet h. Stubbs

Janet higgs

Jean burnside

Jenny Martin

Jim Carnie

J.M.W. bliss

Joan e. bell

John h. Watson

K. Paige backman

Karen A. fort

Karen Cleveland

Kenneth Macgray

Kenneth Macmaster

Kraft foods

linda godel

M. Alice hurst

M.J. bates

Macdougall, Macdougall & MacTier Inc.

Margaret Mody

Marilyn helen Moorhouse

Mary brown

Mary Cruden

Mary hall

Mcarthur Penelope

Meldon Snider

Michael R. gardiner

Neil M. Kelcey

Patricia dorman

Patricia S. humphrey

Peter gillin

Peter grant

Peter W. Rebek

Phillp Parsons

Potters Studio Inc.

Qsq learning Support Council

Rob lawson

Robert finlayson

Robert h. Chapman

Robert W.

Saltman Arbitrations ltd.

Scotiabank

Sheetal lodhia

Sheila d. Watson

Sheila elizabeth

Susan dundas budd

Susan l. Spencer

Ted lorna

The banff Centre

The blg foundation

Thomas burns

Thomas W. Ouchterlony

Victoria Prince

William Ardell

housing Connections

Institute of Chartered Accountants

of Ontario

JVS Toronto

Kids up front Canada

Kiwanis Toronto

labour Community Services

Marc garneau Collegiate Institute

Moeen Centre

Oakridge Public School

Ontario Coalition for better Child Care

Ontario Science Centre

Oxford university Press Canada

Red Apple daycare

Royal Ontario Museum

Sherbourne health Centre

Skills for Change

Social and enterprise development

Innovations (SedI)

South Asian legal Clinic of Ontario

(SAlCO)

Spelling bee of Canada

Toronto Catholic district School board

(TCdSb)

Toronto City Summit Alliance

Toronto district School board (TdSb)

Toronto Public library (TPl)

Toronto Training board (TTb)

Trinity Presbyterian Church York Mills

Tropicana Community Services

Valley Park Middle School

Willow glen Co-operative

Woodgreen

Working Women Community Centre

World literacy Canada

YeS I CAN! Nursery School

YMCA greater Toronto

York university

Youth Challenge fund

INDIVIDUAL DONORS



CONTRIBUTORS AND INTERVIEWERS

Alberto Rodil

bala Shan

bill Pashby

Catherine McNeely

Curtis Nash

elcira

esel Panlaqui

hafiz Khan

Iram

Jaweria Sultana

Jehad Aliweiwi

Jennifer Rajasekar

Kurananithy Kandappoo

Maliha batool

Malini Singh

Nalini Pandenalgat

Natasa bikova

Pamela Polan

Prince Sibanda

Ravi Subramanian

Razia dawood

Risa Abella

Sabina Ali

Sayed Wadood

Shafaque Mulla

Shaista Iftikar

Shirley Roberts

Sonja Miokovic

Networks

St. James Town Service Providers’

Network

Annual Report Editors

faiza Kaka, Kirsten edlund, Ann echlin

Annual Report Design

Steven boyle

Action for Children Today and

Tomorrow

The Atkinson Charitable foundation

better beginnings NOW CAP-C

Canadian Association of family

Resource Programs (fRP Canada)

Canadian Council for Refugees (CCR)

Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Program

(CPNP)

Centennial Infant and Child Centre

Central Neighbourhood house

Centre for Addiction and Mental health

Centre for City ecology

City Kids

Clinical Infant Mental health Program

(hincks-dellcrest Centre – gail Appel

Institute)

Coalition for ethno-Racial Access to

Addiction Services

Colour of Poverty

Community Social Planning Council

of Toronto (CSPC-T)

Council of Agencies Serving South

Asians (CASSA)

early Years Action group (eYAg)

Community

family day Care Services

george brown College

Implementation Team (CIT)

labour education Centre

learn and Work Program with

the Ministry of government and

Consumer Services

Metro Association of family Resource

Programs

Neighbourhood legal Services

Ontario Council of Agencies Serving

Immigrants (OCASI)

Parkdale legal Services

Ryerson university

Scouts Canada

Seneca College

Sherbourne health Centre

Spelling bee of Canada

St. James Town Community Corner

Tamil Service Providers Coalition

Toronto Community housing

Corporation

Toronto east general hospital

Toronto Neighbourhood Centre (TNC)

Toronto Preschool Speech & language

Services

Toronto Public health

Working Women Centre

Youth employment Partnerships (YeP)

Youth Services Network (YSN)

MEMBERSHIP AND AFFILIATIONS



TNO FUNDERS, PARTNERS AND DONORS, MEMBERSHIPS, AND AFFILIATIONS


T he governance of community-based organizations like TNO is entirely dependent on

the dedication, energy, hard work, and leadership of the volunteer board of directors.

The board is the highest decision-making authority of the agency and is entrusted

with the challenging task of ensuring that we are complying with our obligation to be

effective, efficient, and transparent stewards of public funds and trust.

Over the years, TNO has been blessed with a magnificent board of directors that volunteer to guide

its operation, governance, and management. however, there are always those who, even in outstand-

ing company, manage to distinguish themselves from the rest by sheer dedication, commitment, and

sense of service.

We are grateful for the leadership of Rubina Habib, who served as the Treasurer and a member of

the Audit and finance Committee for two terms. Roxanne Labrie has brought energy, passion, and

style to the board for four years. She served as the Chair of the Audit and finance Committee and

contributed her time and energy for two terms. After three years of incredible contributions to TNO,

Tim Lute is leaving the board. he chaired the fundraising Committee and was instrumental in

building solid relationships with Coca Cola and other partners. Nadine Hare has been a dedicated

volunteer and activist on the committee for many years. She served on our board and chaired the

Community development Committee. her understanding of the community and knowledge of the

neighbourhood is rare and deep. She has contributed her time generously. She was familiar with

and connected to the daily challenges facing the community.

The four departing directors positively impacted both the organization and the neighbourhood.

We are grateful and fortunate and will always be inspired by their generosity and dedication.

On behalf of the community, staff, and volunteers of TNO, a thousand thank yous.

THANK YOU RUBINA, ROXANNE, TIM, AND NADINE


MAIN OFFICE

18 Thorncliffe Park Drive. We are your

first stop for Thorncliffe Neighbourhood

Office services. Please visit us here

with any questions. You can call us

at 416.421.3054 or e-mail us at

[email protected].

We are open from Monday to Friday

from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturdays

from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, and

Thursdays from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm.

We also offer some evening programs.

ONTARIO EARLY YEARS

CENTRE

45 Overlea Blvd, Unit 108A.

You can contact us at 416.421.8997.

The Ontario Early Years Centre is a

place for parents, grandparents, care-

givers and children up to the age of six.

YOUTH CENTRE

45 Overlea Blvd, Unit 108.


The Youth Centre includes a drop-in,

recreational and educational programs,

and free access to computers, Internet

and printing.

TNO EMPLOYMENT

SERVICES

1 Leaside Park Drive, Unit 7


We offer a variety of services out of

this location including employment

and training services.

THORNCLIFFE COMMUNITY

WELLNESS CENTRE

28 Overlea Blvd.


This vibrant community space includes

a drop-in centre and programming for

seniors.

TNO @ CRESCENT TOWN

(Satellite Office)

Crescent Town Club, Unit 2A, the

Market Place. You can contact us at

416.690.6385.

This location offers English classes

(LINC). We also have a Settlement

Counsellor on-site.

Our main office, TNO Employment

Services and Thorncliffe Community

Wellness Centre all have computers,

local fax machines, telephones, a

printer, a scanner, and a photocopier

you can use for free.

Mission Statement:

TNO is committed to building a safe and healthy community

through supporting and strengthening the quality of individual

and community life in Thorncliffe Park

DONATIONS

If you would like to make a donation

to Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office

please visit our website at

www.thorncliffe.org

or you can write a cheque payable to:

Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office

18 Thorncliffe Park Drive

Toronto, ON

M4H 1N7

VOLUNTEERING

If you would like to volunteer at

Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office

please e-mail [email protected]


tno 2011-2012 annual report

Documents