DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society

Overview

DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering newcomers and diverse communities across Canada. With a strong presence in regions like Surrey, Langley, Delta, and White Rock, DIVERSEcity provides a comprehensive range of services aimed at facilitating integration and promoting community development.

Mission

The organization's mission is to inspire a sense of belonging by supporting newcomers in building successful lives. DIVERSEcity achieves this through multilingual programs focused on settlement, language acquisition, employment opportunities, community engagement, mental health support, and violence prevention. By offering these services, the society aims to empower individuals to thrive within their new environments.

Programs and Services

DIVERSEcity operates across multiple program areas, including:

• Child and Youth Mental Health Counselling: Providing psychological support to young individuals.
• Family Counselling: Offering guidance and therapy for families navigating new cultural contexts.
• First Steps Early Years Refugee Settlement Program: A tailored support system for refugee families with young children.
• Food Security - Community Kitchen Program: Initiatives aimed at improving food access and community bonding.
• Healthy Self, Healthy Families: Programs emphasizing holistic well-being.
• Multicultural Outreach Programs: Engaging diverse communities through cultural activities.
• Prevention, Education, Advocacy, Counselling and Empowerment (PEACE): Addressing social issues through education and advocacy.
• Refugee and Immigrant Specialized Experience Program: Services designed specifically for refugees and immigrants.
• Seniors Community Connector: Services connecting seniors with community resources.
• Settlement Orientation Services: Orienting newcomers to local services and community norms.
• Stopping the Violence Program: Programs addressing violence and promoting safety.
• Substance Use Counselling: Support for individuals dealing with substance abuse.
• Women in Conflict with the Law: Services tailored for women facing legal challenges.

Governance and Diversity

DIVERSEcity is governed by a board with majority representation from visible minorities, reflecting its commitment to diversity and inclusivity. More than 90% of the staff are racialized individuals, many of whom have personal experience as newcomers to Canada. This allows DIVERSEcity to offer services in a diverse range of languages, ensuring that its clients feel supported in their mother tongues.

Partnerships and Impact

DIVERSEcity has formed strategic partnerships to enhance its services and reach. For instance, its collaboration with LIFT Impact Partners has led to a more integrated approach to employment services, incorporating technology to expand service accessibility and scale.

By focusing on lifecycle services and community empowerment, DIVERSEcity plays a pivotal role in fostering a strong, inclusive community where newcomers feel valued and supported.