Armenian Community Centre of Toronto announces major expansion project

TORONTO–The Armenian Community Centre of Toronto (ACC) has announced a significant expansion of its facilities to enhance services and create a more inclusive space for future generations. As part of the ACC Beyond campaign, this project will reinforce the Centre’s role as a hub for Armenian culture, education, and community engagement.

Founded in 1967, the ACC has been a cornerstone of the Armenian-Canadian community for over five decades, providing educational, cultural, athletic, and social programs. In 1979, the Centre relocated to its current location at 45 Hallcrown Place, marking a significant milestone in its growth. That same year, the A.R.S. Armenian Private School (nursery through grade 12) opened its doors, further strengthening the community’s educational foundation. The need for more space led to the constructing of a new building at 50 Hallcrown Place, which opened in 2004 and became home to the Armenian Youth Centre (AYC), a youth engagement and activities hub. In 2010, major renovations at 45 Hallcrown Place introduced new office spaces, an upgraded lobby, and The Hallcrown Banquet Hall.

The expansion project will now add a two-story facility with a basement totaling 16,000 square feet. It will feature eight modern training rooms, a robotics lab, a multipurpose arts studio, an expanded cafeteria and kitchen, a student lounge, and a welcoming lobby. Designed to be fully accessible, the new space will ensure a barrier-free environment for all visitors. Future provisions for additional training rooms are also included in the plan.

The ACC has secured funding from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), which supports economic growth and resilient communities. The Centre has received a combined contribution of $3,153,923.30 from the federal and provincial governments, with the Government of Canada providing $1,720,400.00 and the Province of Ontario contributing $1,433,523.30. In addition to government funding, the ACC Beyond campaign offers sponsorship opportunities, including naming rights for rooms in the new expansion. Donations over $500 will be acknowledged on the Donor Recognition Wall, while alumni contributions exceeding $100 will be honored in the Student Lounge.

“We are thrilled to upgrade our space to serve you better and create an even more welcoming environment for future generations,” the ACC states in a release. The Centre encourages individuals and businesses to contribute to this historic project by making a one-time donation or pledging support over three years. These contributions will help establish an enhanced environment where Armenian traditions and contemporary Canadian life seamlessly blend.

For over 50 years, the ACC has been a focal point for Armenian culture and identity in Canada, offering educational initiatives through the ARS Armenian Private School, cultural programming through Hamazkayin’s Klatsor chapter, and athletic and scouting opportunities through Homenetmen Toronto. The Centre also houses vital organizations such as the AYF Canada "Simon Zavarian" Chapter, the Armenian National Committee of Toronto, and the ARS Toronto Roubina Chapter, all of which contribute to community empowerment.

Community members can support the ACC Beyond campaign by making a donation. Details can be found in the comments. Every contribution brings the Centre closer to its goal of building a stronger, more dynamic Armenian community in Toronto.