The Tropicana Effect
Tropicana provides opportunities and alternative life choices that lead to personal success and positive life decisions for those we support, persons of Black heritage and individuals in need.
Programs & Services
Employment
Help for job seekers - full, part time and youth, as well as for employers looking to connect with candidates.
Mental Health Services
Individual (men, women, youth, and children) as well as family support programs.
Development & Education
A range of programs covering various academic areas, as well as self-confidence, self-image, focus, and more.
All Programs & Services
Explore all that we have to offer.
Daily Bread Food Bank
If you are experiencing food insecurity, we are here to help.
Childcare
Supporting families with children age 3 months to 12 years.
SBCCI
The Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative.
Venue Booking Info
Tropicana Community Services has various rooms available for you to book for your class, meeting, or special event.
Employment Events
October 2 – In-Person Workshop
Job Search & Labour Market, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
This culturally sensitive information session includes topics such as:
- The Canadian labour markets
- Developing effective resumes and cover letters
- Networking to access the hidden job market
- Creating an employment action plan
- Interview practice
October 7 – In-Person Workshop
Interview Skills, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Topics covered include:
- The purpose and importance of an interview
- Interview techniques
- Competency based interview
- Interviewing mistakes
- Pre-interview, interview, and post-interview processes
- Group discussion and question period
October 9 – In-Person Workshop
Leadership in Action: Communicating & Decision making, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
This workshop allows participants to enhance their leadership and decision-making skills by improving their communication, higher team performance and employee engagement. This workshop includes learning about the different types of leadership styles, and decision-making methods.
October 10 – In-Person Workshop
Customer Service, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
This program aims to develop service skills to ensure consistent service delivery to customers. It helps create a consistent service standard within an organization and provides employees with tools and techniques that help to build customer loyalty. Certificates and lapel pins are provided by Ontario Tourism Education Training to passing participants. This program has a fee of $45.00/person.
October 15 – In-Person Workshop
Employment Rights, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
This workshop equips employees with knowledge and understanding of workplace rights and responsibilities. Participants will increase their knowledge of legal obligations, reduce the risk of workplace conflicts, and legal issues to improve morale and productivity.
October 18 – In-Person Workshop
Crafting a Impactful Resume & Cover Letter, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
It’s hard to earn and easy to spend. You will need a budget, and SMART financial goals, to help secure your financial future. After taking this course, you will be able to:
- Explain what a budget is and how to create one.
- Identify sources of income and different types of expenses (fixed vs. flexible)
- Create SMART financial goals
- Adjust your budget as your income, expenses, and goals change
October 21 – In-Person Workshop
Resume Writing, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
This workshop gives participants the skills they need to create an effective resume and cover letter that will capture the attention of employers. Having a well-written resume and cover letter can make the difference when it comes to getting an interview and in helping you stand out from the other applicants. Join us and learn:
- The purpose of a resume
- How to get started and structure your resume
- How to format, organize, and review your resume
- Tips on how to write a strong cover letter
- Tips for a successful cover letter
October 23 – In-Person Workshop
Career Development, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
This workshop will guide you in developing a career action plan based on your interests, skill set, as well as your short— and long-term goals. You will also learn about SMART goals and receive assistance in developing a set of SMART goals for yourself. This workshop is ideal for those struggling to find employment, or who have been laid off, or those thinking about starting a second career.
October 24 – In-Person Workshop
Entrepreneurship 101, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
This workshop aims to equip participants with the basic knowledge and skills needed to successfully launch and grow their own businesses.
October 28 – In-Person Workshop
Job Search & Labour Market, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
This culturally sensitive information session includes topics such as:
- The Canadian labour markets
- Developing effective resumes and cover letters
- Networking to access the hidden job market
- Creating an employment action plan
- Interview practice
October 29 – In-Person Workshop
Customer Service, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
This program aims to develop service skills to ensure consistent service delivery to customers. It helps create a consistent service standard within an organization and provides employees with tools and techniques that help to build customer loyalty. Certificates and lapel pins are provided by Ontario Tourism Education Training to passing participants. This program has a fee of $45.00/person.
October 30 – In-Person Workshop
Interview Skills, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Topic covered include:
- The purpose and importance of an interview
- Interview techniques
- Competency based interviews
- Interviewing mistakes
- Pre-interview, interview, and post-interview processes
- Group discussion and question period
October 31 – In-Person Workshop
Leadership in Action: Communications & Decision Making, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
This workshop allows participants to enhance their leadership and decision-making skills by improving their communication, higher team performance and employee engagement. This workshop includes learning about the different types of leadership styles, and decision-making methods.
October 31 – In-Person Workshop
Your Money Your Power Budgeting & Tax Basics, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
It’s hard to earn and easy to spend. You will need a budget, and SMART financial goals, to help secure your financial future. After taking this course, you will be able to:
- Explain what a budget is and how to create one.
- Identify sources of income and different types of expenses (fixed vs. flexible)
- Create SMART financial goals
- Adjust your budget as your income, expenses, and goals change
Funded by:
Community Events
October 3, 2025: Newcomer Support
Get Started in Canada, (PTP)
Get Started in Canada- Newcomer Women program is designed to support newcomer women in setting meaningful goals and strengthening their employability skills, while also providing the opportunity to earn micro-certificates such as WHMIS, Business Writing, Customer Service, and more, goal-setting support and enhanced job search skills, increased confidence and workplace communication skills.
October 8-10, 2025: Work-Job Events
3-Day in-person Job Search Workshop, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Peel Multicultural Council)
3-Day in-person Job Search Workshop, designed to equip participants with essential skills for the Canadian job market. This workshop will cover: Analyzing professional skills and understanding Canadian workplace culture, Conducting occupational research, networking effectively, and leveraging LinkedIn, Crafting targeted résumés and communicating confidently during interviews.
October 16, 2025: Youth activities and Support
Cybersecurity for Youth, (The Black Fathers Alliance, Black Parent Collective)
Learn how to protect your child online with healthy monitoring strategies, tips for recognizing unsafe digital spaces, and practical tools to safeguard personal information and mobile devices. This session is planned in alignment with Cybersecurity Awareness Month in October.
October 25, 2025: Youth Activities and Support
Inspire Her Journey Conference, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Girl Impact)
This event is created to empower young African, Black, and Caribbean girls, ages 15–19, through mentorship, inspiring speakers, and breakout sessions focused on both personal and professional development.
December 1, 2025: Mental Health
Laughter Healing Circle, Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (The Neighbourhood Organization)
If you forgot to laugh because of stress, worries or loneliness, join The Neighbourhood Network’s Laughter Healing Circle. Together, you will laugh as a form of exercise, known as Laughter Yoga. No experience needed. No equipment needed. To register, contact Mike at 416-529-2915.
December 1, 2025: Mental Health
Bipolar Peer Support Group, Second and Fourth Thursdays, 7:00 – 8:50 p.m. (Hope and Me)
Do you have a loved one, family member, or a friend living with bipolar who needs your informed help? This bi-monthly online support group is for anyone looking to meet and connect with empathetic peers who identify with the challenges of bipolar disorder. Come learn and grow—and talk to someone who’s been there.
December 1, 2025: Education
Saturday English Reading Club (York Education)
Nurture a love of reading and storytelling through small group book discussions, fostering early literacy skills and encouraging a passion for books. 30-minute sessions are open for age groups 5-8, 9-12, and 13-15 every Saturday afternoon.
December 1, 2025: Education
Wednesday French Reading and Speaking Club (York Education)
Practice French reading and comprehension through story books, covering the basics like the alphabet, colours and simple vocabulary. 30-minute sessions are available for age groups 4-8, and 9-15.
December 1, 2025: Education
Mandarin Reading and Writing Fundamentals Club, Wednesdays at 5 :30 – 6:30 p.m. (York Education)
Master basic characters and language skills. Each session will build the foundation and boost confidence in learning Mandarin.
December 1, 2025: Community Event
Pink Cinema Club, Every third Tuesday of the month (Pink Cinema, Positive Connections, and Persons with AIDs Toronto)
PINK CINEMA & POSITIVE CONNECTIONS are Toronto-based groups that have partnered with the PWA to bring the LGBTQ2+ Community together through cinema with the hopes that they can build community and share the love and history of LGBT Culture. When you join this group, you get to vote on what movies we show on the third Tuesday of each month! Join, then check the “Featured” section for the choices of movies and the poll to vote.
December 1, 2025: Community Event
Men’s Lime, Last Sunday of the month, 3:00 p.m. (Persons with AIDs Toronto)
Come together as heterosexual men to connect, share ideas, and build community. It’s a time for great conversations, good food, drinks, and dancing. For more details, please contact at (416) 506-1400 reception. We look forward to seeing you there at 163 Queens Street East at 3:00 p.m.
December 1, 2025: Community Event, Mental Health
Artistic Calligraphy Tracing, Every Thursday, 1:30- 2:30 p.m. (Persons with AIDs Toronto)
Experience a transformative journey of love, peace, and harmony through water calligraphy and the calligraphy field. Join our live sessions to explore serenity, mindfulness, and the uplifting power of the Love Peace Harmony song. Embrace art and tranquility in a space of renewal and restoration. On the first floor of 163 Queen Street East.
December, 2025: Seniors Event
Seniors Day Program, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Sunflower Developmental Services)
Senior programing for individuals with developmental/intellectual delays. Get your loved ones involved in a program where they can socialize with other seniors and make a friend, do modified activities at their pace, maintain their health through motivation activities and exercise. Get the respite you deserve. Extended hours available. Contact Sunflower Developmental Services at 416-289-223 or Sunnflowerrcs@gmail.com
December 31, 2025: Health Programs, Mental Health Programs, Education
Health Justice Hub Programs, 3-8 PM (The 519)
This program runs every Wednesday for folks in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
- 3 to 5:30pm is a Drop-in for health services navigation, including gender-affirming support, STI testing education and referrals, the 519 Legal Clinic support and information, and the 519’s programs and services
- 6-8 PM is Workshop Wednesday where folks can learn and connect in free workshops.
December 31, 2025: Community Event/Recreation Activities
Her Stories Book Club (SFA and WHIWH)
This online book club is held every Fridayand highlights the stories of black authors and characters. Youth 16-25 who identify as African, Caribbean and/ or Black women are encouraged to join. Members will receive the book of the month and will meet via Zoom every Friday to discuss the assigned chapters. Spots are limited.
December 31, 2025: Health Programs, Youth Activities & Support
Health Care Services (Young Street Mission)
The YSM Evergreen Health Centre offers health services to street-involved youth aged 16-24.
December 31,2025: Community Event/Recreation Activities/Youth Activities & Support
Virtual Her Stories Book Club, (SFA and WHIWH)
This book club highlights the stories of black authors and characters. Youth 16-25 who identify as African, Caribbean and/ or Black women are encouraged to register. Members will receive the book of the month and will collectively meet via zoom every Friday to discuss the assigned chapters. Spots are limited.
December 31, 2025: Community Event/ Health Program/Recreational Activities
Women For Change Walking Group (Women For Change)
Join Women for Change at the Fairview Mall Parking lot by the TD Bank to walk for a one hour walk. This will be an ongoing program that happens Sundays at 9:00 a.m., Saturdays at 10:00 a.m., and Thursday afternoons. Email Info@womenforchange.ca if you are interested.
December 31, 2025: Youth Activities and Support, Education
Girls Afterschool Program (Settlement Assistance & Family Support Services)
Afterschool program located at 1200 Markham Road, Scarborough, ON for girls ages 13 to 29. With a primary focus on homework support, fun games and activities, educational programs and field trips, Volunteer opprotunities, youth leadership, youth health and wellness, healthy relationships, mental health, and prevent gender-based violence.
For more information, call +1 416-302-8674 or email Flabasan@safss.org
December 31, 2025: Newcomer Support
Pathways Forward Newcomer Program (Roots Community Services)
Roots offers free services to newcomers who have been in Canada for 5 years or less, including: These programs are FREE and Virtual, One-on-one settlement support and referrals, Employment and resume assistance, Community workshops and information sessions, Youth and family engagement, Help navigating housing, healthcare, education, and other systems.
December, 2025: Mental Health
Family Service Toronto’s Single Session Walk-In Counselling program (Family Service Toronto)
Their Single Session Walk-In Counselling service is available to individuals, couples, and families who are seeking support for mental and emotional health challenges or ideas on how to make positive changes in life. Whether you are dealing with stress, relationship issues, grief, or other life difficulties, their professional counsellors are here to help.
January 1, 2026: Mental Health
Courage and Compassion for Depression Peer Support Group, Every fourth Monday of the month, 7:00 p.m. – 8:50 p.m. (Hope + Me)
Courage and Compassion is a monthly online support group for anyone looking to meet and connect with empathetic peers who are living with the challenges of depression.
January 3, 2025: Community Events, Education, Recreational Activities, Youth Activities and Support
Winter Steelpan Classes, Saturdays (Tropicana)
The steel pan/steelpan is the national instrument of Trinidad and Tobago. This program teaches participants how to play this wildly popular instrument in a encouraging environment. Our classes are taught in a group setting, where individuals learn to play a variety of songs.
March 21, 2025: Community Events, Education, Recreational Activities, Youth Activities and Support
Winter Steelpan Classes, (Tropicana)
The steel pan/steelpan is the national instrument of Trinidad and Tobago. This program teaches participants how to play this wildly popular instrument in a encouraging environment. Our classes are taught in a group setting, where individuals learn to play a variety of songs.
