Bernard Betel Centre for Creative Living

The Bernard Betel Centre for Creative Living is a nonprofit seniors' centre in the former city of North York, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

History

Originally founded by the Toronto branch of the National Council of Jewish Women, the Centre for Creative Living began its life in the Canadian Bnai Brith building on Hove Street, near Sheppard and Bathurst.

In 1982, with funding from the Betel family, the Centre moved to its own current location, a then-brand-new building at Bathurst and Steeles.

Since that time, in part due to its location at the heart of the Russian-Jewish community, the Centre has greatly expanded its Russian programming, offering social, educational and wellness opportunities in Russian, along with English, Hebrew, and occasionally Yiddish.

Mandate

Although the Centre receives some funding from UJA Federation, it is open to adults 55+ of any religious and cultural background. Its focus is to serve active, independent-living adults - participants in programs come and go on their own.

The Bernard Betel Centre is not a residential centre, however, several apartment buildings nearby cater to seniors, so there is a large population of older adults within several minutes' walking distance.

Programs & Services

*The Bernard Betel Centre offers programs in a wide range of areas, including fitness and computers.
* [http://www.cjnews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=14191&Itemid=86] Ottawa Helps Jewish Community Beef Up Security, Canadian Jewish News, March 6, 2008
* [http://www.betelcentre.org/] Bernard Betel Centre website