Mount Dennis

Toronto, ON

York South-Weston is a vibrant community rich in history and diversity. However, like many neighbourhoods along the fringes of Toronto, it’s not without its challenges. York South-Weston is comprised of six neighbourhoods that the city of Toronto has identified as communities where funding and social services are needed to address significant social and economic barriers. Included in these neighbourhoods are Mount Dennis and Weston which Elevate is particularly focused on serving.

Our primary beneficiaries are Black youth between the ages of 16-20. They live within the Weston - Mount Dennis neighbourhood in low-income households. Our beneficiaries are faced with the daily struggles of growing up in the Weston - Mount Dennis neighbourhood which includes (but is not limited to) higher crime rates, lack of community programming, lack of job opportunities and lower graduation rates. These youth live within unfavourable circumstances, facing Anti-Black racism; yet, most importantly, they are resilient and hopeful youth who are highly interested in gaining skills that will help increase positive outcomes in their desired careers and life. Youth from these communities are inspired to create a better situation than the ones they’ve become familiar with.