Community

At Centennial College, we aim to build lifelong relationships with students, graduates and members in our external communities. We have made community outreach part of our goals, alongside academic development, research and teaching.

Through our community outreach, we will work on strengthening the bonds made with employers, affiliates and learners. By meeting the needs of both, internal and external communities, we will continuously ensure a nurturing and effective environment for all.

The Community Outreach Office began as a pilot project in January 2009, coordinating three grant based initiatives – a Centennial College strategic initiative to engage local neighbourhoods; HYPE, through Youth Challenge Fund; and the First Generation Student Project (FGSP) funded through MTCU. In April 2010, Centennial imbedded Community Outreach Office, including to the high school outreach elements of the FGSP, community engagement, and HYPE into core budget. Subsequently in 2010-2011, Aboriginal Outreach, through an MTCU grant, and Outreach to Women in Non-Traditional Careers, through core budget, were introduced as additional elements of the Community Outreach Office.

The Community Outreach Office provides outreach and engagement activities to promote access to PSE for individuals who are typically under-represented in post-secondary education, with current foci on youth from underserved neighbourhoods, Aboriginal persons, and women in non-traditional careers. Our outreach work is anchored in developing the relationships with individuals and organizations to create bridges to and support networks within PSE. Activities are planned and implemented in alignment with provincial and municipal objectives relative to each particular group.

On the level of community engagement, Office involvement focuses on coordinating bodies and networks such as:

• Neighbourhood Action Partnerships
• Local Youth Service Provider Networks
• Youth Challenge Fund Legacy initiatives
• The Community of Practice for Youth Educational Attainment
• The Toronto Council of Educators
• The Toronto Crown Ward Championship Team

In addition, partnerships are developed with individual community organizations or services.

Centennial College is committed to serving the community in the following ways:

Education and Community

• Helping Youth Pursue Education (HYPE) - A free six-week summer training program for youth ages 13-29. The program covers an array of subjects similar to those offered to full-time students.
• CO-OP Programs - Apply the knowledge learned in classroom to a field placement and gain hands-on learning and practical experience.
• Continuing Education - Explore innovative programs which will match both your interest and your schedule.
• Conference Services - Book your next event with us.
• Resources for Corporations - Looking for a perfect fit for your company? Hire a Centennial student!
• Alumni and Development - Learn about the benefits of being a Centennial graduate.
• Libraries and Resources - Learn. Research. Connect.
• Bookstores - Get ready for school with us, whether you need a textbook or stationary supplies, we got you covered.

Research and Innovation

• Applied Research and Innovation Centre - Connect with our faculty, students and resources to find real world solutions to pragmatic problems.
• Institute for Global Citizenship and Equity - Examine topics in social justice and engage in conversations with today's leading thinkers.
• Culture and Heritage Institute - Learn how diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our mission to educate students for career success within a context of global citizenship.
• Centennial Energy Institute - Help shape the future of the energy economy.

Career Initiatives

• Employment Services - Receive assistance finding employment.
• Centre for Entrepreneurship - Receive the training and advice needed to help you on your new business venture.
• Employers and Organizations - From advertising opportunities to recruitment booths, we have the information you need to get students attention.

Building Healthy, Safe and Nurturing Communities

• Childcare Centre - Our professional caregivers provide a stimulating, safe and nurturing environment for your child at our two locations.
• Athletics and Recreation - Sports not only serves as an activity for our students, but we also invite community members to cheer us on at tournaments.
• Services for Persons with Disabilities - Centennial College's commitment to providing quality services and support includes focusing on meeting the needs of persons with disabilities.
• Campus Safety and Security - All employees, students and users of services at Centennial College have a right to a safe working/learning environment. Learn about what we're doing to help protect you.

Our Commitment to our Community:

• Ensuring that we provide opportunities for student and employers to network.
• Develop resources to further help the career growth of alumni.
• Provide an environment that is safe and accessible for both internal and external community members.
• Create a stimulating environment for children and promote learning development.
• Further explore and collaborate with businesses and educators in efforts to engage communities by promoting development and research.