Ralph Thornton Community Centre Information

The Ralph Thornton Community Center is a City owned, community managed facility which offers space, support, and service to many community organizations and partners.  The Centre is where neighbours meet, events are celebrated, programs are enjoyed, and support is exchanged.  We develop programs, nourish culture, and empower resident action.  We work with other agencies, individuals, and groups to build the capacity of a caring, healthy, and vibrant community. Ralph Thornton Community Centre shares the historic Post Office building with partner tenants the Queen/Saulter branch of Toronto Public Library and the South Riverdale Child Parent Centre. We depend on dedicated volunteers and qualified staff to provide programs and services. We are currently funded by the City of Toronto. Our programs and activities include: o After School Program, PA Day, and March Break Camps - providing fun and safe activities for children aged 6 to 12. o Exchange Loft - free public access to computers, internet, and low-fee printing and photocopying. o Chinese Mentor Program connecting newcomer Chinese children (ages 6-12) with youth and adult mentors, focussing on English language development and cultural adaptation. o Sunday Escape - low-fee Sunday afternoon/evening programming for children aged 3 to 12. o RAC (Riverdale Action Centre) Summer Camp for children 5-12 years old. The camp is a collaboration with the City’s Parks, Forestry & Recreation, offering free spaces for local children from low-income families and providing a supportive environment for children from LGBTQ families. o Other community programs offered through RTC space include a variety of dance, peer support, and arts and cultural activities for all ages. o The Centre offers a variety of spaces available for nominal or no charge to non-profit community organizations, as well as competitive rates for private functions and local business events.