North Oakville is home to the Oak Park Neighbourhood Centre (OPNC), a community-based, charitable agency that first opened its doors in 1999. The Centre is located at 2200 Sawgrass Drive, just west of Trafalgar, off Glenashton Dr. Everyone is welcomed at this vibrant community centre. People of all abilities can find supports and programs here, regardless of background, race, age, beliefs or income.
Safety programs for adults and children are offered on weekends at OPNC. SOS First Aid training services align with the centre’s goal to support, connect and contribute to the community. The centre offers multicultural programs, a food bank, a community garden, and support for families with disabilities, to name a few of its offerings. For more information about programs for adults, seniors and children, please visit OPNC’s website at http://opnc.ca/programs-b/
Oak Park Neighbourhood Centre has programs for children five days per week, including the Learn, Share, Giggle and Care drop-in program, a child development resource centre, social skills programs, Baby Rhyme Time, children’s reading and tutoring club, speech therapy, a homeschooling club, parenting support and workshops and an after-school program for Grades 4-9.
Other agencies providing programs at the centre include:
- Halton Down Syndrome
- CYAN (Community Youth in Action Network)
- HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters)
- Junior Optimist Club (JOI)
- Oakmed Health Centre
- Support & Housing – Halton
- Positive Space Network
- Nelson Youth Centres
- Centre for Skills Development
- Girl Guides of Canada
- Halton Community Legal Services
The centre is run by Executive Director Michelle Knolls, dedicated staff and many caring volunteers. If you are interested in dedicating some time or if you want to connect with the Oak Park community, get in touch with the centre. They need volunteers throughout the year and have many opportunities.
The Centre relies on donations, grants and fundraising. Members who are able to afford it are asked to contribute $60 per year to help offset expenses.
Be sure to visit OPNC’s facebook page: www.facebook.com/oakparkneighbourhoodcentre.
