Our History
2010 — The Beginning
A group of East York residents, concerned about the lack of accessible arts programming in the neighbourhood, begins hosting informal art workshops in the basement of Cosburn Avenue United Church. The “Monarch Park Arts Collective” is born.
2011 — Incorporation
The collective incorporates as the Monarch Park Community Trust, a registered non-profit. First board of directors elected. Catherine Murray serves as founding chair.
2012 — First Programs
MPCT launches its first formal programs: Youth Art Workshops (after school) and Adult Art Classes (evenings). Programming takes place at Stan Wadlow Community Centre through a partnership with the City of Toronto.
2013 — Charitable Status
MPCT receives charitable status from the Canada Revenue Agency. First successful grant application to the Toronto Arts Council. David Chen joins as Program Coordinator.
2014 — Growing Community
First Annual Spring Arts Fair held at Stan Wadlow Park, attracting over 2,000 visitors. Launch of the Summer Concert Series at Dieppe Park. Membership reaches 150.
2015 — Heritage Programs Launch
MPCT launches the East York Oral History Project with a grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation. First Heritage Walking Tours offered. Website launched (the one you’re reading now!).
2016 — New Leadership
Priya Sharma appointed Executive Director. Organisation moves into permanent office space at 15 Monarch Park Avenue. Staff grows to 12 full-time employees.
2017 — Expanding Reach
Launch of Teen Studio program. First Annual Gala & Fundraiser raises $45,000. Partnership established with Toronto District School Board for in-school arts programming.
2018 — Community Recognition
MPCT receives the City of Toronto Community Arts Award. Summer Arts Camp expands to six weeks. Heritage Walking Tour program recognised by Heritage Toronto.
2019 — Pre-Pandemic Growth
Membership reaches 500. Annual operating budget exceeds $1.2 million. Staff grows to 28. Launch of Heritage Voices Podcast.
2020–2021 — Navigating the Pandemic
MPCT pivots to virtual programming during COVID-19 lockdowns. Online art workshops, virtual heritage tours, and a community wellness check-in program keep the organisation connected to the community through a challenging time.
2022 — Return to In-Person
Full return to in-person programming. Record attendance at Spring Arts Fair (5,000+ visitors). Launch of Community Mural Project on Coxwell Avenue.
2023–Present
MPCT continues to grow, serving over 12,000 community members annually. Staff has grown to 32 full-time and part-time employees. Current focus areas include expanding youth programming, completing the Oral History Project phase 2, and strengthening community partnerships.