AWIC Community and Social Services is a Canadian charitable, non-profit organization based in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), dedicated to empowering, serving, and connecting seniors and newcomers. Established over 46 years ago, AWIC has built a reputation for providing inclusive social, cultural, health, welfare, and recreational programs aimed at addressing the diverse needs of its community members[1][2].

Mission and Objectives

AWIC's mission is to promote, enable, and facilitate inclusive programs and activities that enhance the wellbeing and social integration of seniors and newcomers in the GTA. The organization focuses on fostering mutual and intercultural understanding by establishing support groups and raising community awareness on issues such as elder abuse and neglect[2].

The key objectives of AWIC Community and Social Services include:

• Promoting mutual and intercultural understanding among newcomers and their families through support groups.
• Supporting seniors and raising awareness about elder abuse and neglect.
• Providing public forums for the exchange of ideas, information, and support.
• Offering health education seminars focused on prevention and treatment of health issues.
• Assisting women affected by spousal abuse to regain independence.
• Delivering education and support services for immigrant and refugee women, including language instruction, translation, and cultural orientation.
• Building partnerships with local organizations to refer community members to relevant services.
• Promoting artistic performances and providing seminars related to the arts[2].

Programs and Services

AWIC offers a variety of programs mainly targeting seniors and newcomers, including:

• English as a Second Language (ESL) classes and computer skills training.
• Seminars and events on seniors' health and wellness.
• Recreational activities such as chair yoga and dance meditation to promote physical and mental wellbeing.
• Social integration programs designed to help newcomers adapt to Canadian culture and life[3].

All programs are provided free of charge, and services are accessible to anyone from the community, with a focus on residents in North York and Scarborough within the GTA[3].

Governance

The organization is governed by a board of directors comprising community leaders and professionals. The current leadership includes Amita Jain as President, Chitra Sunder as Treasurer, Astha Jain as Secretary, Dr. Sunita Nandy as Director of Cultural Activities, and other directors who oversee various aspects of AWIC’s operations[2].

Community Engagement

AWIC actively encourages community participation through volunteering, membership, and board involvement. The organization periodically hosts monthly events aimed at building stronger community ties and enhancing the social inclusion of seniors and newcomers[1].

Location and Reach

While headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, AWIC Community and Social Services primarily serves the Greater Toronto Area, including the neighborhoods of North York and Scarborough. The organization operates during weekdays, offering walk-in classes and appointment-based services to meet community needs[3].

AWIC Community and Social Services continues to be an essential resource in the GTA, contributing to the social welfare and cultural integration of seniors and newcomers through its comprehensive community-focused programs. Its longstanding presence reflects a commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive environments for vulnerable populations in Canada.