Parkdale Programs
Building connections and strengthening community in the heart of Parkdale
CultureLink Settlement and Community Services partners with Toronto Public Library’s Parkdale Branch to offer free, welcoming programs for youth, seniors, and families in West Toronto. Whether you’re looking to build new skills, make friends, or explore your community, we have a program for you.
Location: Parkdale Library, 1303 Queen St W, Toronto
Programs for Young People in Parkdale
Free programs for youth ages 13-29 to build skills, make connections, and explore your future.
Sankofa Youth Program: Connect, Learn, and Grow Together
A safe space for newcomer, racialized, and LGBTQ+ youth to build community and celebrate identity
Inspired by the Akan concept of Sankofa—”go back and retrieve what is valuable from the past to build a better future”—this program creates a welcoming space where young people can explore their identities, cultures, and experiences while developing skills for tomorrow.
What You’ll Experience
Through interactive workshops, creative sessions, and recreational activities, you’ll dive into topics like identity exploration, community building, leadership development, and personal growth. The program features peer-to-peer discussions and youth-led sessions where you share your stories, knowledge, and perspectives with others who get it.
Why Join
- Connect with other youth who share similar experiences
- Celebrate your diverse background in a safe, inclusive space
- Build confidence in who you are and what you can achieve
- Strengthen your ties to the Parkdale community
- Develop leadership and personal development skills
This isn’t just another program—it’s your space to be yourself and grow alongside others.
Skills for Youth Success (SYS): Build Your Future
Gain confidence, leadership skills, and work-readiness through fun, hands-on activities
Get ready for the world of work while having fun and connecting with other youth in Toronto. Skills for Youth Success combines engaging activities with practical skill-building to help you prepare for your future career.
What You’ll Learn
Build your resume, practice communication and teamwork, explore different career paths, and develop leadership skills that employers value. Through innovative workshops and hands-on activities, you’ll gain real-world experience that makes a difference.
What Makes This Program Different
You’ll connect with positive role models and mentors who’ve been where you are. The program is designed around what youth actually want to learn, not just what adults think you need. Plus, you’ll meet other young people who are also figuring out their next steps.
Skills You’ll Develop
- Resume writing and interview techniques
- Professional communication and teamwork
- Career exploration and goal-setting
- Leadership and mentorship skills
- Confidence in your abilities and future
Programs for Older Adults in Parkdale
Free programs for adults 55+ to stay active, connected, and engaged in your community.
Active and Connected Seniors: Your Weekly Social Circle
Reduce isolation and build friendships through games, arts, music, and community connection
Every Monday afternoon, seniors from across Parkdale gather for meaningful social time, creative activities, and genuine connection. This isn’t just a program—it’s your community.
What Happens Each Week
Join us for games, singing, arts and crafts, and plenty of time to chat with friends old and new. Each session is designed to be welcoming, accessible, and fun, with activities that bring people together and spark joy.
Beyond the Weekly Gatherings
Throughout the year, we organize special trips around Toronto, community celebrations, and events that give you opportunities to explore the city, share experiences, and celebrate your life in Canada. From cultural outings to seasonal celebrations, there’s always something to look forward to.
Why Seniors Love This Program
- Stay active and engaged with weekly activities
- Build lasting friendships with neighbors
- Feel a stronger sense of belonging in Parkdale
- Enjoy a welcoming space where everyone is valued
- Participate in special trips and celebrations throughout the year
Bring a friend or come solo—you’ll feel at home either way.
Parkdale Community Information Centre: Get the Help You Need
Free information, support, and guidance for all Parkdale residents—plus workshops for seniors
Need help navigating services, completing applications, or finding community resources? Visit our Welcome Desk any weekday for friendly, knowledgeable support.
How We Can Help
Our staff and volunteers assist residents with a wide range of everyday needs. We help you complete applications, connect with community resources, and access services including health care, transportation, housing supports, and social services. No question is too small—if you need help, we’re here.
Special Workshops for Seniors
We offer popular learning opportunities designed specifically for older adults, including digital skills workshops, sessions on tools like ChatGPT, health and wellness workshops, and other programs that help you stay informed, confident, and connected in today’s world.
What You Can Get Help With
- Completing forms and applications
- Finding health care and social services
- Accessing transportation and housing supports
- Learning new digital skills
- Connecting with community resources
- Understanding government programs
Visit Us or Get in Touch
Drop by Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM
Programs That Bring Generations Together
Connecting seniors and community members through shared experiences and mutual learning.
Global Roots Program: Garden, Learn, and Grow Together
Seniors and community members connect through gardening, nature, and shared learning
Dig into community gardening with Global Roots, an intergenerational program where seniors and neighbors come together to garden, learn, and connect with nature and each other. Organized in partnership with The Stop Community Food Centre, this program brings people together across generations through the simple joy of growing food.
Summer Growing Season
Throughout the warmer months, participants meet weekly to garden, spend time outdoors, and enjoy each other’s company in a welcoming, supportive environment. Each gathering includes hands-on workshops on gardening topics like planting, soil care, seasonal growing, and sustainable food practices. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or have never touched soil before, you’ll learn something new.
Why Gardening Matters
Gardening offers gentle physical activity that improves mobility, strength, and overall health. Spending time in green spaces supports mental well-being, helping reduce stress and promote relaxation. Just as importantly, gardening creates opportunities for social connection and shared learning as participants work together, exchange knowledge across generations, and celebrate the growth of the plants they nurture.
Winter Gatherings
When the weather turns cold, the program continues with monthly gatherings and activities. Stay connected with your gardening friends, reflect on the growing season, and participate in educational workshops or social events that keep the community spirit alive year-round.
What You’ll Experience
- Weekly gardening sessions during summer months
- Hands-on workshops on sustainable growing practices
- Intergenerational knowledge exchange and connection
- Time in nature with a supportive community
- Monthly winter gatherings and educational activities
- Partnership with The Stop Community Food Centre
Grow With Us
Ready to Get Involved?
All programs are free. Whether you’re looking for yourself or someone you know, we’d love to have you join our community.
Questions about our programs?
Use the contact form at the bottom of this page or email us at reception@culturelink.ca
View upcoming Parkdale Program events:
