Rainbow's End Community Development Corporation

Rainbow's End Community Development Corporation is a Canadian registered charity and nonprofit organization dedicated to employing individuals living with mental illness through a variety of social enterprises. Established in 1997 as a training program for mental health service consumers, it has since evolved into a thriving charity serving the Hamilton-Burlington region of Ontario[1][3][5].

Mission and Vision

The organization’s mission is to provide opportunity where there was none previously, by creating supportive and diverse social enterprises through which people living with mental illness can experience empowerment, inclusion, and dignity[1][3]. Their vision emphasizes fostering social inclusion and respect, and improving the overall quality of life in the community by supporting people with lived experience of mental illness.

History

Rainbow's End began as a training initiative for individuals with mental health conditions and expanded to operate a range of social enterprises. These enterprises provide meaningful employment and skill development opportunities tailored to the abilities and needs of their participants[3].

Programs and Services

Rainbow's End operates multiple social enterprises in several sectors including:

• Grounds maintenance and landscaping
• Eavestrough cleaning
• Painting
• Deck restoration and cleaning
• Janitorial and cleanup services
• Pick-up and delivery
• Sewing
• Flyer distribution
• Food services via affiliated cafes and bistros (Colours Cafe and Rainbow's End Bistro)

These enterprises not only contribute to the local economy but also serve as a platform for empowerment, offering employment placements and volunteer opportunities to people living with mental illness[1][3][5].

Target Population

The organization primarily serves people with lived experience of mental illness in the Hamilton and Burlington areas. While open to all applicants, preference is given to individuals who have experienced mental health challenges. The emphasis is on reliability and capability, rather than prior skill or experience in the job roles[2][5].

Community Impact

Rainbow's End Community Development Corporation plays an important role in mental health community support by providing inclusive employment opportunities, combating stigma, and promoting dignity and self-worth among its employees and volunteers. The organization embodies a model of social enterprise where social impact and business operations are integrated to create sustainable opportunities[1][4].

Registration and Status

Rainbow's End Community Development Corporation is officially registered under Business Registration Number 888714177RR0001 and recognized as a registered charity by the Canada Revenue Agency. It complies with all regulatory requirements associated with its charitable status[3][4].

This article reflects information current as of late 2024.