HSDC is a non-profit organization established by a concerned group of women who observed a gap in the integration services available to immigrants and visible minorities in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) in 1993 and incorporated in 1995. For over 30 years we have been dedicated to promoting the social, cultural, and economic self-sufficiency of newcomers, marginalized and at-risk individuals in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Our mission is to promote the health, social, cultural, and economic self-sufficiency and well-being of marginalized and at-risk populations, including newcomers, refugees, youth, women, and seniors. Through integrative and empowering programs, we aim to support individuals and families in building stronger foundations for a prosperous future.
HSDC has a vision to impact positively on the lives in our community. We envision a thriving, inclusive society where everyone, regardless of their background, can realize their potential and actively contribute to the community’s growth and development.
We understand cultural diversity and provide our services within the cultural-competency framework. Our staff and volunteers are of diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds allowing us to effectively serve our clientele.
Philosophy and Principles
- Cultural Competency: We recognize and respect cultural diversity, ensuring all services are delivered within a cultural-competency framework.
- Empowerment: We believe in fostering self-sufficiency by equipping individuals and families with the tools, skills, and confidence they need to succeed.
- Inclusivity: Our programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of all individuals, regardless of their age, gender, ability, ethnicity or sexual orientation, ensuring equitable access to all services.
- Collaboration: Through partnerships and community engagement, we work to create sustainable solutions that address systemic barriers and challenges.
- Build Stronger Families: HSDC empowers families through educational and support services, creating a solid foundation for long-term stability and growth.
Our Mandates
Our mandate is to deliver comprehensive, empowerment-driven services that enable individuals and families to overcome barriers, integrate into Canadian society, and achieve lasting success and well-being. HSDC continues to strive towards its goal of helping families build strong foundations and creating a lasting positive impact in the community.
- To promote the health, social, cultural, and economic self-sufficiency and well-being of new immigrants, at-risk children and youth, women, marginalized individuals, so that they and their families can enjoy and contribute to the opportunities that Canada offers
- To assist clients in becoming active contributors to, and beneficiaries of, the Canadian economy.
- To support newcomers and at-risk individuals through integrative programs, supportive counseling and referral services.
- To contribute to poverty reduction and self-sufficiency through capacity building programs, skills development training programs, self-employment creation and life skills development.
- To provide self-support mechanisms that further social integration for minority individuals.
- To realize our mandate, HSDC has developed various training programs and social support activities along with job placement opportunities for our volunteers, interns, and clients who participate in our programs. 80% of individuals who participate in one of HSDC’s programs and services succeed in securing employment or venturing into a business of their own.
Heritage Skills Development Centre (HSDC) was established with the goal of Helping Families Build a Strong Foundation and our efforts are geared towards making this happen!
