Skills for Change Celebrates the Completion of the Ubuntu in Dementia Care Program made possible with a $91,100 OTF Grant from the Ontario Government
Toronto, Ontario
August 29, 2025
On Friday the 29th of August, Skills for Change, through its Black Community Access Programs team, hosted a special event to celebrate the successful completion of the Ubuntu in Dementia Care program. Thanks to a $91,100 Seed grant that Skills for Change received in 2024 from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), this free, eight-week wellness and education initiative was developed and delivered by Skills for Change to provide culturally affirming support to Black family caregivers in the Greater Toronto Area and Scarborough impacted by dementia. The event was held at the Alzheimer Society of Toronto, which also partnered by providing venue support and resources.
“The Ubuntu in Dementia Care program is an excellent example of how provincial funding through the Ontario Trillium Foundation can support grassroots solutions that reflect the needs of our diverse communities,” said Michelle Cooper, MPP for Eglinton-Lawrence.
The OTF grant enabled the Skills for Change Black Community Access Programs team to design and deliver the Ubuntu in Dementia Care program. The funds supported the recruitment of subject matter experts and staff, the development of a culturally responsive curriculum, and the purchase of tailored educational resources for participants. This investment helped build a high-impact, well-structured initiative that was deeply appreciated by clients and positioned to address long-standing gaps in dementia care for Black communities—gaps that also reflect global priorities outlined in the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including health equity, inclusive education, and reduced inequalities.
Rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu, “I am because we are”, the program offered hybrid sessions led by Black professionals, covering topics such as understanding dementia, navigating resources, building resilience, and maintaining emotional well-being. Delivered in a safe, affirming environment, the initiative helped address systemic barriers such as stigma, lack of representation in care services, and cultural disconnect in traditional dementia support.
The August 29 event brought together program participants, funders, and community partners to reflect on the program’s impact and envision the future of culturally relevant dementia care. The event also featured a resource workshop led by the Alzheimer Society of Toronto, which introduced attendees to an expansive library of dementia-related resources, including culturally tailored tools and educational materials.
Skills for Change is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building welcoming and equitable communities in Canada by providing innovative programs for immigrants, refugees, and underserved communities. For over 40 years, SFC has delivered impactful services in employment, education, and community engagement. Learn more at skillsforchange.org.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested nearly $105M into 732 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
For more information, please contact:
Sampada Kukade
VP of Corporate Communications and Stakeholder Engagement
Skills for Change
416-658-3101, ext. 234.