Toronto Association of Neighbourhood Services

The Toronto Association of Neighbourhood Services (TANS) is a Canadian nonprofit organization that serves as an association of multi-service nonprofit organizations dedicated to strengthening local neighbourhoods across Toronto, Ontario. Established in the early 1950s, TANS acts as a collaborative hub aiming to support diverse communities in addressing local challenges and fostering community cohesion through shared approaches and collective action.

History and Background

TANS was originally founded as an association of six, later seven, multi-service settlement houses within Toronto. These settlement houses trace their origins back to the early 20th century, with some members such as the Fred Victor Centre (established 1894), University Settlement Recreation Centre (1910), Central Neighbourhood House (1911), and St. Christopher House (1912) still actively participating in the association’s work. The settlement house movement itself began in 1883 with Toynbee Hall in London, England, inspiring similar community-based service organizations worldwide, including those in Toronto.

In 1998, the Toronto Association of Neighbourhood Services evolved into what is now known as Toronto Neighbourhood Centres (TNC), a broader association encompassing about 30 member agencies dedicated to providing social supports and opportunities for community involvement within their local geographic areas.

Mission and Activities

TANS focuses on strengthening neighbourhoods by fostering social participation and connection. It serves populations experiencing social isolation and lack of adequate supports, noting that over 200,000 people in Toronto face these challenges. About one in twelve Torontonians report having no close family or friends to rely on, underscoring the critical role of neighbourhood services.

A significant part of TANS’s work has been championing decent work standards within the nonprofit sector since 2015. This includes promoting inclusive, racially equitable workplaces and supporting career paths that contribute to healthy communities and sustainable local economies. The association also emphasizes Indigenous reconciliation, acknowledging the traditional territories of several Indigenous nations in Toronto and funding local Indigenous organizations as part of its commitment to social justice.

Impact and Community Role

Through its member agencies, Toronto Association of Neighbourhood Services supports tens of thousands of residents with social services, community-building activities, and advocacy. The association works to build networks that challenge systemic inequalities and promote collaborative approaches to neighborhood development and social inclusion.

By anchoring local social participation and fostering relationship-building among diverse populations, TANS and its successor organization, Toronto Neighbourhood Centres, continue to play a vital role in revitalizing community life in Toronto.

Note: The Toronto Association of Neighbourhood Services is registered under Business Number 108113853RR0001.