The Winnipeg Chinese Cultural and Community Centre Corporation is a registered Canadian charitable organization dedicated to promoting Chinese culture and serving the local community in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Established over 40 years ago, the Centre plays a pivotal role as a cultural hub within Winnipeg’s Chinatown, offering a variety of programs and services aimed at fostering cultural exchange, community engagement, and support for diverse populations including low-income families, seniors, new immigrants, and students.

History and Mission

Since its inception, the Winnipeg Chinese Cultural and Community Centre (WCCCC) has sought to preserve and celebrate Chinese heritage through cultural events, educational programs, and community services. The Centre also functions as an important venue for social interaction, cultural exhibitions, and public celebrations, thus contributing to the vitality and recognition of Chinese culture in Winnipeg.

Programs and Services

WCCCC provides a broad range of community-oriented activities and support programs. Notably, it partners with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to deliver free income tax and benefit return preparation services to eligible individuals, including socially and economically vulnerable groups[1]. The Centre also coordinates programming for senior citizens and youth, fostering intergenerational engagement and community cohesion[2].

Governance

The Centre is governed by a dedicated board of directors comprised of community leaders and professionals with a commitment to the cultural and social development of Winnipeg’s Chinese community. Past leadership includes figures such as Mr. Ben Lee, a well-respected project manager and engineer known for his extensive community service and contributions to the revitalization of Winnipeg’s downtown area[2]. The board also includes active volunteers like Ms. Malinda Lee, who manages communication efforts and senior and youth programming at the Centre[2].

Facilities and Development

Located on the second floor of The Dynasty building on King Street near Winnipeg City Hall, the Centre provides a space for cultural exhibitions, social gatherings, and community meetings[4]. In 2023, the Centre secured over $600,000 in funding from PrairiesCan, a federal agency, to support extensive renovations and upgrades to its facilities. These improvements include refurbishing the main lobby, meeting rooms, and public washrooms, as well as constructing new spaces such as a museum intended to enhance visitor experience and better showcase Chinese culture[5]. These developments coincide with the Centre’s celebration of its 40th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its community presence.

Charitable Status

The Winnipeg Chinese Cultural and Community Centre Corporation is officially registered as a charity with the Canada Revenue Agency under the business number 119300861RR0001. It complies with all regulatory requirements and engages in fundraising to sustain its mission and programming[3].

Through its multifaceted initiatives and community partnerships, the Winnipeg Chinese Cultural and Community Centre Corporation continues to be a cornerstone institution supporting cultural preservation and community well-being in Winnipeg, reflecting the ongoing contributions of the Chinese community to the city’s cultural mosaic.

[1] https://wcccc.ca [2] https://wcccc.ca/about/board/ [3] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/winnipeg-chinese-cultural-and-community-centre-corporation/ [4] https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g154954-d564293-Reviews-Winnipeg_Chinese_Culture_and_Community_Center-Winnipeg_Manitoba.html [5] https://www.canada.ca/en/prairies-economic-development/news/2023/01/mp-terry-duguid-announces-federal-investment-in-winnipeg-chinese-cultural-and-community-centre.html