Kingston Community House for Self-Reliance

Overview

Kingston Community House for Self-Reliance is a Canadian nonprofit organization registered with the Canada Revenue Agency and holds a business number of 102843786RR0001. Established with the goal of providing a community facility independent of government funding, it has been a central hub for community events and activities in Kingston, Ontario.

History

The organization was founded in 1981 by four women in Kingston who envisioned a space that could serve various community needs without relying on government approvals or funding. In 1983, it was officially incorporated as a nonprofit organization with charitable status.

Facilities and Activities

The community house is a multi-level facility featuring two meeting rooms, a fully equipped kitchen that can also be used as a meeting space, and three studios on the second floor that are rented to community members. The top floor of the building includes a residence. It serves as a venue for various events such as acoustic concerts, book launches, and poetry readings, making it a vibrant cultural hub in the community.

Mission and Operations

Kingston Community House operates with a mission to keep costs low, ensuring that no one in the community is excluded from accessing its facilities. This approach allows individuals and groups to rent spaces at more affordable rates than many other local venues. Users typically become members of the organization to access the facilities.

Accessibility Initiatives

Recent efforts have focused on enhancing accessibility and user experience within the facility. These initiatives include renovations supported by grants from local organizations, demonstrating the community's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

Impact

As a registered charity, Kingston Community House for Self-Reliance plays a significant role in fostering community engagement and self-reliance. Its efforts to maintain affordability and promote inclusivity have made it a cherished resource for local residents, contributing to the richness of community life in Kingston.

[1] http://www.kingstoncommunityhouse.org [2] https://www.kingstonist.com/news/kingston-community-house-at-99-york-making-big-changes-toward-universal-access/ [3] https://www.charitableimpact.com/charities/kingston-community-house-for-self-reliance [4] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/kingston-community-house-for-self-reliance/impact/view/ [5] https://kingstonlive.ca/kingston_community_house