Dear Friends of the House,
At West Neighbourhood House, we see our organization as an asset of the community we serve. Our engagement with the community drives our values and the programs we provide.
Recently, the House held outreach events and gatherings to promote community awareness, bring members together, and cultivate shared experiences. In addition, we launched our Heartbeat of the Neighbourhood campaign, which commenced with the installation of a new outdoor mural along the Dundas Street West frontage of our building at 248 Ossington.
At Do West Fest in early June, we welcomed new visitors with activities and provided information about our programs and community partners. During our Annual General Meeting (AGM), attendees reflected on the past year, and we announced the recipients of this year’s Sir James Woods Award for Community Development and the inaugural Bob Ellis Fund award.
Read more about what has been happening at the House.
Heartbeat of the Neighbourhood Mural Unveiled
Earlier this year, West Neighbourhood House invited artists to submit mural proposals featuring imagery inspired by the House’s new Heartbeat of the Neighborhood campaign for the exterior of our 248 Ossington Avenue building.
The Heartbeat of the Neighbourhood theme aims to foster connections among community members and promote participation to enhance neighbourhood engagement and activity.
The House appreciated collaborating with Anja Javelona, the artist behind our Heartbeat of the Neighbourhood mural at 248 Ossington Avenue.
Anja shares that she always had a creative spark in her. “I knew from a young age, that’s all I’ve ever wanted to do. I leaned on that very heavily.”
“I feel like I could draw ever since I was a child. I remember when I was younger, my mom would give me scraps of paper from the office. She would give it to me and say, ’You could use this.’ My mother knew if she gave me an official sketchbook, I would go through it super-fast. Any sort of scrap paper that I can get, I would draw.”
Anja has turned this passion into an impressive career as a designer and artist.
When the House issued a call for proposals to create a mural as part of the Heartbeat of the Neighbourhood campaign, Anja decided she had to apply. “I looked at what the project was about, and I thought I could be someone who could bring this vision to life. I wanted to get involved.”
“I did research into what the House was about, including what they do for the community. I looked at the different programs like Meals on Wheels, children’s, newcomers’, and more. That really resonated with me, and I incorporated the programs into the mural itself.”
From the start, Anja’s ambition and vision for our Heartbeat of the Neighbourhood mural matched our organization’s values of inclusivity, diversity, and community building.
“I wanted the mural to reflect the diversity of West Neighbourhood House and encompass its energy so that people can gravitate towards it. Whenever I work on a project, I make sure that the visuals are vibrant and engaging so that the community feels welcomed,” she explains.
Her goal was to highlight the community members we work with and to showcase the range of programs the House provides. “That made the artwork more powerful,” Anja shares. “When I think of this neighbourhood, I think of diversity and inclusion,” Anja noted, and she really connected with and was inspired by the Heartbeat of the Neighbourhood message to create the mural.
The House reviews the previous year’s activities at the Annual General Meeting
This year’s Annual General Meeting took place on June 26th at our 248 Ossington location. As always, it was a packed agenda for the evening.
Our Executive Director, Maureen Fair, spoke about the backlash to diversity, equity, and inclusion in some circles, including online, and reaffirmed our commitment to these values.
“I want to be very clear that West Neighborhood House is not backing down from our work on diversity and inclusion. We need to make sure our hard work and the very painful lessons that we learned along the way to figure out what the House can do to address racism and discrimination, must continue. We are also on the path to try to right relations with Indigenous people in a better way. So, we know we still have more work to do, and we are not giving up on this.”
“At the same time, we do want to do some more work to try to prevent the backlash that we think is unfair, especially in social media, the backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion, the backlash against anything to do with fighting racism and oppression and colonization. So, we want to make sure our actions, and our words don’t make some people feel bad or guilty, and result in people feeling angry and not able to have a civil conversation. That backlash right now, especially on social media, has become very toxic, and we want to try to prevent it or minimize it, or address it.”
“What we want to do is provide the space, activities, and opportunities for diverse people to connect with each other. Hopefully that builds mutual respect and a sense of shared community. You being here tonight, with this wonderful mix of people in this room is a sign that you believe in the community and we appreciate that you understand the value of this so well.”
The House presents the Sir James Woods Award for Community Development and the Bob Ellis Award.
The Sir James Woods Award for Community Development is presented annually by West Neighbourhood House to recognize and encourage examples of community development. This year, we are proud to acknowledge Charlene Grandmaison and Keisha ‘Kitty’ Tappin for their extraordinary commitment to supporting under-served and marginalized communities.
Charlene is a proud Cree woman from Cowessess First Nation in Saskatchewan and a member of the Wolf Clan. Charlene is a strong presence in Parkdale, supporting cultural restoration and land-based learning through initiatives like the Four Winds Indigenous Collective, and leads the Dunn Welcome Committee that organizes welcome ceremonies and assembles welcome kits for new social medicine housing tenants. Her wisdom and commitment to the community foster healing and intergenerational connections. Her vast experience encompasses work with the Canadian Executive Service Organization (CESO) and the City of Toronto, where she has advanced Indigenous engagement and fostered community well-being.
As the new Dunn Indigenous Garden Outreach Volunteer Coordinator, Charlene’s invaluable support has been instrumental in bringing the Indigenous community together in Parkdale through gardening, ceremony, and cultural connection. Charlene is a vital part of the neighbourhood, knowledge keeper, matriarch, and lifelong advocate who has dedicated her life to uplifting Indigenous communities through leadership and grassroots action.
Keisha ‘Kitty’ Tappin co-founded 444realchange and actively advocates for mutual aid, emphasizing support for BIPOC and unhoused individuals and raising awareness of issues affecting these communities.
Founded in 2021, 444realchange is a youth-led, grassroots group of queer and trans BIPOC youth with disabilities, organizing vegan park meals and donations for unhoused and housing-insecure people across Toronto. The organization relies on food bank supplies and community donations to provide groceries, transportation, and other essentials, with help from volunteers who prepare and serve meals.
Kitty also participated in Foodshare’s Prioritizing Racial Equity Action Group, working to embed justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion into food security services.
The House also presented the Bob Ellis Award, established in 2019, to honour Bob Ellis’ remarkable influence on youth and young adults in downtown West Toronto across multiple generations. Many of these people, years later, credit Bob with changing their life for the better.
In recognition of Bob’s outstanding contributions to his community, a group of his admirers initiated and endowed a fund to continue his work to support young people.
The award supports young people from underrepresented groups in their pursuit of success in a post-secondary program related to community development, social services, social work, physical education, or sports and recreation.
With donor support, we awarded $2,500 scholarships to two students for their academic pursuits.
We are pleased to announce Zahra Nur and Osama Filli were selected as this year’s recipients of the Bob Ellis Award.
Estelle Amaron, Bob’s wife, and Adrienne Ellis, Bob’s daughter, were in attendance to present the awards and spoke about the scholarship recipients.
Estelle Amaron
“It is my great honour to introduce Osama Filli to you. When I read his application, I was immediately struck with how his passion, his goals and his deep humanity were exactly the qualities that Bob admired and mentored in the many young people and adults he worked with over his long career. Filli has actively participated in West Neighbourhood House’s Adult Learning Program. Filli collaborated with program staff and his tutor to prepare for his academic journey as a mature student.”
“Filli is very excited to start the Law Clerk diploma program at Centennial College in September, which aligns with his long-term goal of becoming both a legal professional and a mental health advocate and eventually work helping people navigate the justice system – in his words – “with empathy and understanding”.
“It is with great pleasure that I present the Bob Scholarship Award to Osama Filli. On behalf of West Neighbourhood House and my beloved Bob, I wish you all the very best and much success as you start your journey towards making your goals a reality. “
Adrienne Ellis
“Every once in a while, someone remarkable – brave, focused and strong – crosses your path. Zahra Nur is just such a person. Zahra is a student at Parkdale Collegiate Institute High School and graduated today with honours. Zahra has lived in Saudi Arabia, Somalia, and now Toronto, where she has been an active participant in West Neighbourhood House’s Newcomer Youth Program. She also volunteers at a local food bank and the YMCA, where she supports newcomer youth. Building community has been integral to her development and appreciation of the value and importance of community. Zahra has been accepted into the nursing program at Toronto Metropolitan University. As a nurse she intends to go beyond the “science side” and ensure she is a nurse who really listens, builds trust and advocates for patients. She is excited to start her studies in September.”
“My Dad was a champion of young people, often seeing the potential in them before they saw it themselves. There is so much potential in Zahra and he would be honoured that Zahra, such a passionate and dedicated young woman, would be receiving this scholarship in his name and so, on behalf of West Neighbourhood House and Bob Ellis, I am very honoured to present Zahra with the Bob Ellis Scholarship Award and wish you much success as you start your education and career in nursing.”
We were pleased to welcome Anja Javelona, who spoke at the AGM about the inspiration for the Heartbeat of the Neighbourhood mural.
“I wanted the mural to demonstrate a sense of belonging. I wanted people to have that feeling when they look at it. I wanted them to feel that they are part of that,” she said.
Voting members elected a new Board of Directors, including a new President. We welcomed Jeannie Samuel, Hana Yassin, Leon Liberman, and Jerry Koh to their first term and look forward to their contributions.
The House is grateful to Melanie Newton, Kelly Le, Evelyn Amponsah, and Rutendo Change for their leadership during their tenure on the Board and their contributions to the community.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Prasad Rao as his term as Board President comes to an end. Prasad has been an incredible ambassador for the House through his time as a Board member and Board president. His leadership, passion for the House’s community work, and generosity have greatly benefited both the House and the community.
Among his many accomplishments, Prasad was instrumental in launching the House’s Heartbeat of the Neighbourhood campaign, together with his team at “Uncommon”. We are grateful that Prasad will continue volunteering with the House.
Adrienne Lipsey was elected to her first term as volunteer Board President. We look forward to working with Adrienne in her new leadership role and benefiting from her wisdom she brings to the House.
Voting members also approved the Treasurer’s report, the Audited Financial Statements, and the appointment of new auditors. The Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements for 2024-25 is available to view on our website here: westnh.org/about-us/annual-reports-and-audited-financial-statements/
Voting members also approved the election of a new Board of Directors, including a new Board President.
Stanley Meek Honoured for his Long-term Contributions to the House
Friends of the House joined in the unveiling of a bas-relief sculpture honouring Stanley Meek, recognizing his long-standing commitment to the House’s community work and his leadership as a former President of the Community Endowment Board. Stan’s strong connection with the House goes back to 1966.
Local sculptor Alexander Moyle created the bas-relief of Stan after spending many hours with him to capture his essence. Displayed in the reception at our 248 Ossington location, this tribute was funded by Stan’s admirers and aims to inspire dedication and generosity in others.
Major Gift Enables the House to Expand Our Climate Action Work
Thanks to the recent generous donation, the House has established its first Climate Action Coordinator position, enabling the organization to broaden its efforts in climate change awareness and initiatives.
We welcome Janani Venkatesh to the House and her new role as a resource for West NH staff and the community, supporting the organization’s development of knowledge and capacity to address climate change. Janani will also engage with the community to raise awareness and collaborate with the public to identify their needs and facilitate solutions to climate-related challenges.
“Climate action seems like something that only policymakers or people in power can take action about. But it affects regular people on an everyday basis. The most vulnerable people are affected by it on an everyday basis, but they don’t really know that this is because of climate change,” Janani explains.
She notes that many low-income people live in old buildings and in small apartments that were not designed for the current climate or modern needs.
“There’s probably not the optimum level of cooling [in these buildings]. And this is going to affect their health. And if they have children, infants, and those with health issues, it’s going to affect them as well.”
“They are often not able to afford the home that provides them with the kind of comfort they need or are not being able to negotiate with their landlords on a plan they need for the building.”
Janani believes that community organizing, and knowledge-sharing can support the House in advocating for effective solutions aimed at reducing the impact of climate change.
“I think people need to feel empowered. They need to feel like their voices are heard and they can make a real difference to their lives.”
The House Celebrates Do West Fest with the Community through Food, Fun and Meaningful Outreach
West Neighbourhood House once again took part in Do West Fest in June. It was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with the community and make new connections through outreach.
Various programs set up tables along Dundas Street West, engaging with the community and providing fun activities throughout the day.
Older Adult Centre participants sold their hand-knitted creations, raising funds for the Seniors’ Members Council. The Children, Youth and Family Services program offered face painting, and the Newcomer Youth Program provided participants with the opportunity to create their own custom buttons and tote bags.
The Adult Literacy Program engaged the community in a giant Scrabble game, where members of the public could play together, a long-standing festival favourite.
Our community partner, Fixthe6ix (FT6), a volunteer-led community group Trusteed by West Neighbourhood House, had many conversations with community members about ways to reduce the stigma associated with homelessness in Toronto.
FT6 also engaged community members about donating gift cards, which are used to assemble care kits for unhoused individuals.
The Gerstein Crisis Centre, Hard Feelings teams, community partners, and tenants at 248 Ossington Avenue contributed to engagement efforts by sharing information about their vital mental health and harm reduction care and services.
Our courtyard served as a hub of activity throughout the day. This year, it featured the “Patty-O” theme, offering Jamaican patties, ice cream sandwiches, and soft drinks along with local musicians who performed, creating a chill vibe for community members seeking a cool place to relax.
In addition, our West Active Living and Learning Centre (WALLC) program hosted a yoga class in the courtyard, and later in the day the Adult Day Program for seniors featured a live music sing-along.
The House acknowledges the Little Portugal BIA for all their work organizing another successful Do West Fest!
Volunteer Tutor Comes Full Circle with the House
Raymond has a unique history with the House. His involvement began in 1984 when he first volunteered to teach computer skills to adults while he was a university student.
“St. Christopher House took a chance on me because I had a lot of computer experience and computer background,” he recalls.
At the time, the community was predominantly working class and Portuguese. St. Christopher House, as the organization was known, was very concerned that the children in our community were not doing well enough in school and had among the highest dropout rates, Raymond recalls.
Since 1912, our organization has dedicated itself to addressing community needs. Like today, the camps offered a range of educational and recreational activities designed to foster both creative and intellectual growth in children, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to reach their potential.
“In 1983, they made the decision to come west [from Bathurst]. 1984 was the year that they were going to try the first program out in this area. And so, the idea was to run a summer day camp for kids,” Raymond explains.
“They needed counsellors for the kids, and so they wanted a computer person because computers were very new back then and I was a computer guy.”
Raymond fondly remembers his first experience working with the children at the summer camp. “I was nervous, of course, but found out I can work with kids. And people complimented me on my ability to relate to kids at the time.”
Raymond remained with the House for several years, also contributing to its after-school and summer camp programs that still operate and work with children and their families today.
“At the time, the area was not heavily serviced by social service agencies. I saw that the kids were starting to meet adults, including adult figures who were [university] educated, and so they started seeing other sides and other aspects of life, other than what they knew,” he shares.
“Just being part of that and seeing how people perked up when they were going to camp. There was definitely happiness there. You could see there was a difference in the way they saw things.”
Raymond remembers when the organization moved to 248 Ossington Avenue in 1985 and attended the 75th anniversary celebration, marked by the City of Toronto declaring a St. Christopher House Day with festivities at Senhor Santo Cristo Catholic School (now University of Toronto Schools) and Osler Playground (pictured).
He reflects and says his time at the House gave him a new perspective, “What I learned working with St. Chris at the time was that you meet a lot of people from different walks of life, and you meet people who throughout their lives haven’t been treated well.”
“You realize that you are doing some valuable work. By helping people, you are doing something constructive with your life,” Raymond shares.
Raymond left St. Christopher House in 1988 and moved on to a career as a math and computer science teacher for the Durham District School Board. He briefly returned to volunteer at the summer camp in 1990. His time at the House inspired his teaching career.
“That’s where I developed my experience working with kids and that’s why I decided that I could be a teacher,” Raymond emphasizes.
Retirement and a New Phase of Life
After retiring, Raymond found himself with some free time and decided to reconnect with the House. He recently began volunteering as a tutor in the Adult Literacy Program at West Neighbourhood House, teaching English-language skills.
“It’s taken some adjustment, but it’s not too different from teaching. Different subject matter. Different audience. In terms of the skills being used, it’s pretty similar,” he adds.
Additionally, since 2018, Raymond has volunteered as a curling instructor and junior coach at the East York Curling Club, where he also served on the Board of Directors. Maintaining active engagement with the community remains a key priority for him in retirement.
“You finally got time again, and you are kind of passed a stage in your life where you’re trying to accumulate stuff. Now, it’s time to finally get out of that rat race and recover from all the stresses of working life, and you want to start being useful again. You have the option to choose what you want to do,” Raymond shares contentedly.
Thank You to the Tax Clinic Volunteers and Staff for Another Successful Year!
The House greatly appreciates the volunteers and staff who diligently supported low-income individuals and families in filing their tax returns this year.
The tax clinic operated for several months at 248 Ossington and by phone. Staff and volunteers helped more than a thousand individuals file their taxes this year.
The service is provided through the Financial Empowerment and Problem-Solving (FEPS) program at the House, which provides support and guidance to people in financial difficulty. In addition to filing tax returns, the program helps participants apply for benefits, build a budget, manage debt, and provide financial coaching.
The Meals on Wheels program is currently looking for more volunteers. If you are interested in becoming a driver or runner, please visit our volunteer page here.
The Visiting, Social and Safety program is also looking for volunteers for friendly visiting. Volunteers provide friendly connection and support through regular interactions, either in person or over the phone. For more information, please visit the page here.
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