About Us

 Heritage Skills Development Centre (HSDC) is a non-profit organization established in 1993. It was founded by a group of women who observed a gap in the integration services available to newcomers, immigrants, refugees and minorities in the Greater Toronto Area. Our mission is to enhance the health, social, cultural, economic, and overall well-being of newcomers, immigrants, refugees, at-risk children and youth, women, and other marginalized individuals through integrative and empowering programs and services.

Programs And Services

Welcome to Heritage Skills Development Centre (HSDC), your gateway to a world of empowerment and opportunity.

Youth Programs

We at HSDC are dedicated to empowering young people through a range of dynamic and enriching initiatives.

Newcomer Support/Capacity Building Programs

Our programs help newcomers and refuges transition smoothly and build fulfilling lives within Canadian communities.

Senior Support Programs

Designed to enhance seniors' quality of life, our programs offer activities and services tailored to their needs.

Computer Training/Digital Literacy Program

Whether you're a beginner navigating the digital world or aiming to enhance your tech skills, our programs offer comprehensive training to suit your needs.

Addiction/Mental Health Support

HSDC provides trauma-informed addictions and mental health education and support for marginalized individuals and families in Scarborough.

Women Programs

We provide comprehensive culturally responsive support that empowers marginalized and racialized women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals.

Afro-Carib Fest

The award-winning Afro-Carib Fest is a free two-day annual festival that brings thousands together to celebrate culture and diversity through African, Caribbean, and global arts, music, dance, food, and heritage.

Crime Prevention/Victims Support

HSDC offers trauma-informed programs and support for marginalized individuals to address crime, violence, and victimization within Scarborough and the GTA.

Community Engagement

Volunteer

Volunteer with HSDC to support the well-being and self-sufficiency of immigrants, low-income individuals, at-risk youth, and marginalized communities.

Donation

HSDC helps families to build a strong foundation through integrative programs and services.

Service Impact & Testimonials

“Since 2010, I have attended HSDC’s programs such as the Computer training, Sewing/Fashion Design program and the Small business training. I am happy to say that with their help I have started a clothing business which is doing very well and I am no longer on social assistance. I would like to say that they have done a great job of providing opportunities for new immigrants like myself to gain work experience and participate in various personal development programs”

– Sandra Demola

“Heritage Skills Development Center has been very important in helping me with my life. The staff helped me to find joy in life again, establish my career goals and gain full time employment. I honestly may not been able to cope, especially being separated from my family if it had not been for this agency. Thank you so much HSDC for creating the opportunities to meet such inspiring and knowledgeable people. Thank you for the support, encouragement and for the programs you provide to help our community. I would like to encourage all other organizations and people who support the center to keep on doing so because it really helps people to empower themselves”

– Sylvia Argandar

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