At Impact North Shore, the importance of care and belonging is reflected in the broad range of services we have built steadily and consciously over the past three and a half decades. We estimate that we have supported tens of thousands of individuals and families from diverse cultural backgrounds, lived experiences, and immigration pathways.
During the early 1990s, the organization initially established foundational settlement services, conducted research on access to health care, partnered with school districts to engage youth, and launched volunteer-run English language programs.
In 1995, additional settlement services were added with funding from the federal government, along with the Host Program, a program designed to match newcomers with Canadian volunteers. The First Step Employment Program followed in 2001. The Volunteer Network and the Let’s Learn Together parenting program were launched in 2004, The ELSA (LINC) English language program in 2006 followed by the Seniors’ Bridging Program and Immigrant Women’s Health Program in 2007.
Specialized programs for couples, teens, professionals, entrepreneurs, temporary permit holders, LGBTQ+, mental health support followed in successive years and were most often delivered in multiple languages.
These services have always been about more than information. While people come to us seeking guidance and practical support, they often leave with something equally important: a sense of connection, belonging, and community.
At the heart of our work is a commitment to upholding one another and fostering care for all. We believe this begins by recognizing and valuing the unique wisdom, strengths, experiences, and perspectives that each person contributes to our community.
Upholding each other is not a milestone to be reached, it is an ongoing practice of learning, listening, and growing together, one that continues to shape who we are as individuals, as an organization, and as a community.
