In the 1970s a number of local communities were looking for more control over their community services. They negotiated with local city governments to create resident-led hubs to meet neighbourhood needs. Today there are ten of these organizations. Together they are known as the “Association of Community Centres” (AOCCs).
Each AOCC operates in close partnership with the City of Toronto. The City provides a facility, a core administrative budget and appoints a community-based board to govern and set direction. This creates a base from which the AOCCs generate more resources to deliver programs and services.
This model provides local control, stability and the flexibility to focus on what communities need. As a result each AOCC has a unique identity and set of services. AOCCs are also active on many community-based networks and committees across the city. They are an important bridge between Toronto’s municipal government and its extensive community sector.