About PARC

About Us

About PARC

In the Heart of Parkdale for over 45 Years.

PARC began in 1977 when a group of volunteers observed the large number of adults living in Parkdale rooming and boarding houses. Many were survivors of the psychiatric system, had little money, few family contacts and no real place to go and connect with peers. On March 17th 1980 PARC opened its doors as a pilot community mental health program.

Our passion for providing member-driven programming, employment, food security, social space and safe supportive affordable housing, has evolved and grown to meet our members’ needs for over 45 years.

We call the people who participate in our programs and services PARC members. Members shape this space by creating, contributing, and supporting one another but anyone who walks through our doors is part of the PARC community. 

Those who wish to take part in governance can register for formal membership, which includes voting at our Annual General Meeting and serving on board committees.

Mission

A community where people rebuild their lives. We work with people who live with mental health and substance use challenges. They may also struggle with issues related to poverty such as houselessness and food insecurity. We have a drop-in centre with social, art and recreation activities, and offer a wide range of services and programs including housing, financial, employment and outreach support. The simple act of walking through our doors is what makes a person a PARC member – choosing to give back, create and grow is how members contribute and build community.

Vision

Everyone living with dignity and safety, with enough resources to explore and achieve their potential.

Our Values

Respect | Dignity | Inclusion | Compassion | Caring | Kindness | Trustexplore and achieve their potential.

What Guides our Work

Belonging

PARC is a community with open doors that welcomes people.

Healing and Health

PARC is a place where people rebuild their lives with opportunities to share and learn.

End Poverty

PARC focuses on the individuals affected and the systemic practices that produce poverty.

Human Rights

PARC works to challenge oppression that renders people vulnerable.

We are Committed to:

  • The health, well-being, and recovery of PARC’s members, tenants, and staff.
  • Placing safety and inclusion at the centre of everything we do.
  • Social justice and challenging systems of oppression.
  • Diversity in leadership, staff and services to meet the needs of PARC.
  • A supportive housing model helping people feel connected and hold a meaningful place in the community.
  • Being consistent, clear and transparent in our communications.
  • Investing in organizational training, structures, systems and process.
  • Collaborating with PARC partners, our local community and neighbours to deliver on our mission.

PARC Enewsletter

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About PARC

Community Hub

PARC acts as a hub and meeting place for various agencies, enterprises and partners who strive to create lasting social change in Parkdale and beyond.