When Ammar arrived in Canada from Syria

He was overwhelmed with gratitude, but faced severe challenges. He couldn't speak English, had no connections, and no job.

Through volunteering at The Carrot Community Arts Coffeehouse—Arts on the Ave's social enterprise on 118 Avenue—Ammar learnt Canadian culture, practiced and developed his English language skills, and found a community.

Today, Ammar is our Lead Barista and food pantry coordinator. In this leadership role, he teaches new skills to our volunteers, has shared his generosity and has found a safe home.

When you support Arts on the Ave, you help us provide extensive neighbourhood programming. Which includes our free festivals, the Kaleido Family Arts Festival in September and Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival in January.

Your support also helps build a community that is safe, welcoming to newcomers and minority groups, and celebrates our culture—all through the arts.

Give to Arts on the Ave today and be part of the transformation.