Establishing a new sense of community

Hundreds of business and community leaders came out for the grand opening celebration for 40 Oaks in Regent Park, Toronto.

The development will provide 87 units of affordable housing in addition to several program areas, a community food program and office space for community agencies.

The project was an initiative of the Toronto Christian Resource Centre in response to an urgent need in downtown Toronto. The new development was opened by

Ruth Ann Onley, the wife of Lieutenant Governor of Ontario David Onley. She unveiled Helping Hands, a bronze sculpture by Ralph Hicks that celebrates and represents the many people involved in building 40 Oaks. Entertainment was provided by musical icons Jackie Richardson, Michael Burgess and David Warrack.

“We’re very proud that the Toronto Christian Resource Centre has been able to grow and expand as the new Regent Park evolves around us,” said Greig

Clark, chairman of the Toronto Christian Resource Centre. “With this new building, we now have a home from which to offer our programs, and we’ve been able to increase the affordable housing stock, as well as establish a new community hub where all members of the community are welcome.”

Lending their support were Debra Dineen, executive director, CRC; Councillor Pam Mcconnell; philanthropists Sandra and Jim Pitblado; Reverend Michael Blair; Barbara Keenan; Sonny Thi, vice-president, BMO Guardian Funds; Kevin Higgins, president, Fusion Learning; Peter Grosskopf, CEO, Sprott Inc.; John Waldie, Mackie Research Capital; Dr. Jim Hilton, paediatrician, and his wife Margo; Diane Fleming; Rosemary and Rob McLeese of Access Capital; John Deacon, co-chairman and honorary CRC board member, and his mother, long-time CRC supporter, Frances Deacon; Max Beck; Barbara Hall, former mayor of Toronto; and Kirk Shearer, co-chairman, 40 Oaks Communications.

An incredible $19.7-million has been raised and another $2.3-million is needed to reach the campaign goal.

Philanthropists Sandra and Jim Pitblado.

Peter Grosskopf, CEO, Sprott Inc., with John Waldie, Mackie Research Capital.

Lumumba Wolde-Gabriel with Councillor Pam McConnell.

Sonny Thi, vice-president, BMO Guardian Funds, with her husband, Kevin Higgins, president, Fusion Learning, and his mother, Anne Higgins.

Reverend Michael Blair and philanthropist Barbara Keenan.

Max Beck with Barbara Hall, chief commissioner, Ontario Human Rights Commission; and Kirk Shearer, co-chairman 40 Oaks Communications.

Sculptor Ralph Hicks with Ruth Ann Onley, Greig Clark, chairman, CRC, and Debra Dineen, executive director, CRC.

Canadian icons David Warrack, Jackie Richardson, Gordon Lightfoot and Michael Burgess.