Twenty years ago, the North York Women’s Centre (NYWC) began delivering much needed programs to women in and around North York. On September 29, 2009, the Centre will mark its 20th anniversary with a celebration of honouring the women who worked tirelessly to deliver those programs and those whose life circumstances put them in a position of needing them.

Since 1989, NYWC has been building a community of diverse women providing resources and support to effect positive change. With a focus on community development and participation, NYWC provides a safe, supportive atmosphere for women to voice their concerns, share experiences, gain information and learn new skills in the company, comfort and safety of other women.

“Even in their time of greatest need, women display tremendous strength, fortitude and resilience,” notes Iris Fabbro, the centre’s executive director. “I am left with a feeling of great respect and admiration, whenever I hear a woman tell her story and talk about the challenges she has overcome.”

Over 65,000 women have accessed NYWC programs and services for the past twenty years. They come from all backgrounds and walks of life. The majority of these women, however, live in poverty or on very modest incomes, despite being well-educated and employed. Two in three have experienced woman abuse.

The strength of the organization lies in its volunteers. Every year, over 100 volunteers contribute 5,000+ hours to the NYWC’s work. They are on the front lines delivering programs and behind the scenes helping with planning, administration and fundraising. Last year alone, volunteer contributions to NYWC’s work were valued at close to $200,000, a figure not much smaller than organization’s total operating budget.

“We have the most generous, dedicated and compassionate volunteers I have ever seen,” says Mulu Haddis, the Centre’s program and volunteer coordinator. “Our programs and the women who use them benefit greatly as a result. Our volunteers bring with them a wealth of skills and experiences; they also bring tremendous empathy and a heartfelt desire to support other women in their community.”

Jessy Abi-najem is one of those volunteers. Her face sparkles when she talks about the work she does facilitating women’s support groups at the NYWC. “I am so moved by the women I have met at NYWC. They are incredibly strong and determined in their efforts to improve women’s lives and those of their families and communities. I am in awe of how supportive and encouraging women are with each other. I have learned so much and have grown from my experience as an NYWC volunteer.”