Making first impressions with United Way

There’s nothing quite like spending your Sunday at the AGO surrounded by great art, but for many families in at-risk communities, that experience can sometimes feel out of reach.

Thanks to a partnership between the AGO and Toronto & York Region United Way, equipped with a mission to break down some of the socio-economic barriers standing in the way of this experience, a special day was planned for families to visit the AGO –and many visited for the very first time.

On June 4, the AGO opened its doors to 300 people from three United Way Community Hubs – Mid-Scarborough, Dorset Park and Victoria Park – to experience and make art together as a family. These Community Hubs are a one-stop shop, offering several support services and programs under one roof for residents, many of whom are newcomers to Canada.

The day began at the Community Hubs, where families boarded school buses waiting to take them to the AGO, where their own personal AGO tour guide provided an introduction to the Gallery. Families were invited to enjoy an artmaking activity with Toronto-based artist Ness Lee, take part in Gallery tours, and explore all that the AGO has to offer.

“We want everyone to have access to our city’s rich cultural life, but barriers of transit and affordability can keep people from experiencing what Toronto has to offer,” said Alex Dow, Director of Neighbourhood Initiatives, United Way Toronto & York Region. “This AGO Community Family Sunday helped us bridge that gap, by removing barriers to access, and providing these families with their first experience of the AGO’s art and programming.”

Check out some pictures below of a very awesome day!

Find out more about the AGO’s Community Access Initiatives.

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