About Us

University Settlement is a charity that offers a wide range of day care and children’s programming, settlement and social services, English language training, seniors programs, and recreation facilities and activities, including the Music & Arts School at University Settlement, the oldest community music school in Toronto.

Helping newcomers and residents, children, families, and seniors build brighter futures and stronger communities since 1910

University Settlement is a charity that offers a wide range of day care and children’s programming, settlement and social services, English language training, seniors programs, and recreation facilities and activities, including the Music & Arts School at University Settlement, the oldest community music school in Toronto.

Many of our programs are offered free of charge. Fees for our Day Care and Child Care programs, the Grange Fitness Centre, pool and gymnasium and Music & Arts School are well below private sector rates. Subsidies of between 30% and 70% for children’s program fees are available to families who qualify.

At University Settlement, diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the core of who we are. We celebrate diversity and inclusion every day. Our three locations in downtown Toronto and North York are strategically located to serve diverse communities.

University Settlement is the oldest community-based social service agency in downtown Toronto. Learn more about our rich history by reading The Story of University Settlement, 1910 to 1984 (PDF).

Our Mission

University Settlement helps individuals and families to learn and grow by engaging them in social, cultural, recreational and educational opportunities. Founded in 1910, University Settlement is committed to enhancing the quality of life of the people in the diverse communities we serve.

Our Vision

Our vision is a community that is safe and healthy, and where individuals of all ages, from all social classes and cultures belong, mixing freely and respecting one another. In this place, people’s basic needs are met and they have the opportunity to grow and learn through participation in artistic, cultural, recreational, educational and employment opportunities.

Our Values

  • Partnerships and teamwork
  • Responsiveness to community needs
  • Respect and celebrate the diversity of our community
  • Operate with equity and fairness
  • Accountability and transparency to our stakeholders
  • Excellence in all that we do
  • Nurture the potential of all those with whom we interact

Our Funding

With an annual operating budget of over $5 million, University Settlement is grateful to receive funding from the City of Toronto, the government of Canada and the Ontario government, United Way of Greater Toronto, and from individual donors, corporations and foundations.