Working for Change is a charitable organization that emphasizes the importance of work in the lives of people who have been marginalized. We operate social purpose enterprises, leadership and pre-employment training programs, as well as providing community - based research and public education on issues related to poverty, mental health and addictions, violence against women and newcomer/refugee challenges.
The Raging Spoon
Parkdale Green Thumb Enterprise
Parkdale Green Thumb Enterprises is a social purpose horticulture business that installs and maintains outdoor and indoor plants for Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), non-profit organizations, hospitals, the private sector, and community groups.
Out of This World Cafe's & Grill
Originally a vocational rehabilitation program run by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Out of This World Café was divested to Working for Change in 2002 to be operated as a social purpose enterprise.
Individuals who live in or are part of a particular community are often very effective in carrying out research projects as they typically have an in-depth understanding of issues such as poverty and homelessness and they may be able to engage research participants more effectively than professionals.
Voices from the Street
Voices from the Street provides economically, politically and socially marginalized individuals from diverse backgrounds an opportunity to bring their voices and perspectives to decision-making bodies that shape public policy.
Women Speak Out
Women Speak Out, was a leadership training program that operated from 2011 to 2014. It used a gender lens to explore social justice issues.
We offer a 12 week training program focusing on employment in both the food or horticulture sectors and relief worker training for people in receipt of Ontario Works (OW).
The Peer Navigator Training program is provided in partnership with the City of Toronto. It offers 12-weeks of leadership and customer services training with a focus on peer support and skills for working in an office setting.
Help us to build independent lives
If desired, you can specify which program or business you would like to support.