Social & Community Services Organizations in Halifax

In the early 1970’s the city of Halifax was concerned about the rising costs of social assistance, and the increased dependence of more and more people on it. On December 13th, 1977 a non-profit organization (Human Resource Development Association, now MetroWorks Employment Association), “was launched by the city of Halifax largely through the efforts of the municipal social planning department to provide learning, training, and employment for people on social assistance as an alternative to welfare.” At a time when funds were limited we understood that new solutions needed to be found to better use existing resources and turn them into sources of growth. We pioneered the use of welfare funds to capitalize businesses that hired persons facing persistent multiple barriers to employment. Our approach would change how North America, and the world, looked at poverty reduction, the rising costs of social assistance, unemployment, and economic development. Forty years later our idea of creating hybrid business structures (for-profit and non-profit) continues to drive transformational change encouraging people to work across traditional fields of responsibility to develop new ideas (products, services, models) to tackle the rising needs of: - individuals living with mental illness and ability differences - individuals living on a low or fixed income (social assistance) - single parent households - individuals who are under-employed or unemployed Through our hybrid business structures we have ensured a continued link between economic development and the goal of increasing social equity and individual dignity. Our organizational structure and mandate has been described as “one of the most imaginative initiatives in North America.” For over thirty years (1982 – 2013) our activities were referenced in numerous books, reports, and case studies gaining us international recognition. In Canada, we were selected by Carlton University’s Community Economic Development Technical Assistance program as a “host provider.” A study released in 1993 (and validated by KPMG) determined that the net benefit to government during our first fifteen years of operation totaled $7 million. Over the past 40 years we have operated 14 social enterprises, including: - Stone Hearth Bakery (in operation for 35 years) - Stone Hearth Café and Catering (in operation for 3 years) Recent recognition and awards include: - 2017 Halifax Business Awards: Gold in Small Business of the Year and Silver in Innovative Business of the Year - 2017 Champion of Mental Health: Named by the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health - 2017 Great-West Life, London Life, and Canada Life Literacy Innovation Award: Honourable Mention MetroWorks has persevered to create innovative solutions to close the gap between work and welfare. Our organization is a bridge and safe place for individuals from all backgrounds to access the support they need. We are a place where the general public, businesses and government can learn and understand the societal concerns we address. We are proud of our accomplishments, and that we have been able to clearly demonstrate that individuals facing persistent multiple barriers to employment would rather work for a living than depend on social assistance.

The Mobile Food Market is a 21-week pilot project that sells fresh and affordable fruit and vegetables in communities across the Halifax region. Every Saturday, a Halifax Transit bus is transformed into a mobile fresh produce market. The Mobile Food Market stops in 5 communities; North and East Preston one week and Spryfield, Fairview and North End Halifax following week.

Moving Minds is a local non-profit organization dedicated to helping young people live well. It is the organizer of the annual Mind Ball in Halifax.

Since 2008, our Family Resource Centre has been a cornerstone of the Mulgrave Park community, serving more than 2,500 residents through programs that empower families, support healthy child development, and foster connection. Mulgrave Park is a vibrant community with a rich heritage, strong connections, and a deep sense of pride. Proudly registered as a charitable organization, we are committed to creating positive change. Charity Number: 826 147 019 RR 0001

ABOUT No Time for That is a registered Canadian charity founded by singer, songwriter, and motivational speaker Elsie Morden. During her senior year of high school in 2012, Elsie started sharing her story and songs with the “No Time for That” Tour and has now put on over 600 presentations free of charge across Canada. Elsie Morden and No Time for That hope to share their messages of empathy and empowerment with as many people as possible. MISSION To advance education about bullying prevention, mental health awareness, and youth empowerment by delivering seminars, workshops and presentations with personal stories and music to children, youth, educators, and the public. VISION A future where Canadians have no time for bullying, no time for stigma, and no time for the negative. VALUES Inclusion – we celebrate diversity and equality, and honour the inherent worth and dignity of all individuals. Passion – our presentation has been and always will be offered free of charge. We genuinely care about everyone affected by bullying and mental illness and want to make a positive difference in their lives. Leadership – we strive to be the best role models possible. As leaders, our goal is to inspire more leaders and world changers that will represent models of integrity to their peers, community, and the greater world.

The North Woodside Community Association is a volunteer-led, charitable, non-profit organization that exists to serve the residents of North Woodside and the surrounding community. The mission of the North Woodside Community Association is to aid in focusing the energy and skills of citizens in building a stronger community in which to live, work and play. Specifically, the Association focuses on: Providing a meeting place for people to discuss and take action on issues of common concern and interest Encouraging the development of social, recreational and educational opportunities Hosting special events that promote meaningful interaction among residents The Association will express, in its actions, its commitment to community accountability, fiscal responsibility, accessibility and diversity.  

Our Vision People living life to the fullest, flourishing in a community of belonging, dignity and choice. Our Mission As a leader in continuing care, we build meaningful relationships with our clients everyday and make a positive difference in the communities we serve.

As a leader in continuing care, we build meaningful relationships with our clients everyday and make a positive difference in the communities we serve.

Nova Noble Cause Society (NNCS) is a group of passionate workers who give priority to mankind. Members of this society are enthusiastically supporting newcomers, children and elders to make Nova Scotia a beautiful place to live in. Our mission is to bring joy and happiness with art, culture, values & life-skill activities. Our aim is to remove the gaps among different generations and communities. With a clear vision, we focus on the needs of Senior Citizens, Students and Newcomers and to assist them to reach their potential.

Nova Village NS is a family hub providing free programs and services supporting the health and wellbeing of families and youth in Halifax, Nova Scotia. NVNS provides opportunities to Connect, Grow and Thrive. A registered charity est. in 1986.

Open Harbour works to sponsor a refugee group to begin a new life in Halifax each year. A sponsorship starts on the day of arrival and extends for the 12 months afterward. It includes financial, social, and emotional support. We greet our new Nova Scotians at the airport, set them up with a furnished apartment, enroll them in job training and English classes, help them get to medical appointments, register their children in school - and a lot more!  OUR MISSION To privately sponsor and resettle refugees to Halifax irrespective of circumstances or creed.  To coordinate the settlement, integration, and empowerment of the new Nova Scotians we sponsor.  To spread awareness of issues affecting refugees.

Out of the Cold is a community-based, volunteer-run organization that works to provide shelter & community supports to the homeless & precariously housed. The specific work for the 2015-2016 season is being planned currently, and this website is under construction.