Canada is a country that is blessed with a plethora of cultures that broaden our experiences and deepen our understanding of others from around the world and within our country. In Burlington there are many cultural activities and events occurring that we hear very little about. This forum is being written to help promote these numerous opportunities and encourage participation to embrace our community’s wealth of diversity.
This month’s feature organization is the Burlington Caribbean Connection (BCC). The organization was established in 1996 under the name of the Burlington Caribbean Youth Connection, by a group of concerned adults who wanted to get the youths involved in learning about their culture. In 2002, the name was changed to the Burlington Caribbean Connection to reflect the current membership, as the youths had moved on to their busy lives at college or university and work.
The BCC’s vision is to build awareness and promote understanding of Caribbean culture and be engaged in the community. The mission is to:
- host educational sessions;
- fundraise through social events and donations;
- maintain and disperse a scholarship fund; and
- support charitable causes as directed by the Board of Directors.
To achieve its vision and mission, the BCC cultivated partnerships with individuals and organizations. In interviewing the president for this article, she wanted to extend a special thank you to those individuals and organizations for their help and support.
The membership of the BCC in the initial years were mainly from the Caribbean, but to be inclusive, its bylaws and constitution were updated to accept anyone who believes in its vision and mission. The same applied to its guidelines to its application process for a scholarship award. The BCC has been pleased to help many students heading off to college or university for their first year from Burlington and within Halton Region.
The BCC’s involvement in the community has not gone unnoticed:
- A room at Joseph Brant Hospital is named for the BCC
- The BCC was named on the donor wall of the satellite kidney dialysis unit in Burlington
- The BCC received the “Community Philanthropist of the Year 2010, Halton Region” from the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Golden Horseshoe Chapter.
In the area of leadership, the BCC is proud to boast of the introduction of Black history events in the city, as well as host the best celebratory events each year with good food, good island music, and great company. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has interrupted a good time for all since early 2020.
Should you wish to join this group, the contact information is:
Email: thebcc2000@yahoo.ca
Website: www.thebcc.ca
Facebook: The Burlington Caribbean Connection
Mail: 1450 Headon Rd, P.0 Box 93096, Burlington ON, L7M 4A3
Phone: 905-332-4570
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