The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is one of Canada's leading grantmaking foundations and is an agency of the Government of Ontario.
In 2012, Skills for Change was granted, through OTF's Community Capital Fund (CCF), $194,500 over one year to make energy and safety upgrades to the St. Clair Avenue West facility in Toronto. The $50 million fund is used to invest in projects that support diverse cultural communities and help revitalize community-based infrastructure.
As part of the project, over 3,000 square feet of 3rd floor meeting, classroom and office
space received new drop-down ceilings, upgraded high efficiency lighting and fresh paint.
Washrooms were completely renovated and enlarged and feature all
new plumbing, fixturing, vanities, mirrors and high efficiency electric hand
dryers.
The new kitchenette is a welcome addition. Clients, visiting
community groups and staff can now prepare meals on the 3rd floor
instead of using the only available lunchroom on the first floor.
The main lobby, street entrance and north facade of the building were refreshed or repaired.
Over 25 non-profit community groups now use the renovated classrooms and meeting spaces including: Ebony Toastmasters, FCJ Youth Network, Hungarian-Canadian Community Services, OCASI, Ontario Institute of Agrologists, OWL Project, Toronto Cyclists Union and Toronto Green Community.
SfC has, in partnership with OTF, worked on many past projects as well.
In 2008 - 2009 m $42,800 to upgrade five computer training labs and a job
search centre by purchasing computer monitors and chairs. This will provide a
more conducive learning environment for newcomers studying English and learning
new skills.
And in 2000 - 2001, $148,400 over two years to offer 140 Train-the-Trainer
Workshops to agencies in Ontario serving professionals who were educated outside Canada, to hold
discussion groups for agencies and clients, and provide online mentoring.
