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Canal Communities Intercultural Centre firmly believe that what makes us different is our strong links in the Irish and minority ethnic communities.
The centre aims to inspire and empower people, groups and organisations to work towards an integration which celebrates difference but recognises our common desire to be respected parts of a dynamic, responsible, creative and caring community.
The Canal Communities Intercultural Centre was started up in 2004 by Canal Communities Partnership. We are now in the third stage of our organisation's development, and have a strong Strategic Plan for 2008-2011.
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| President Mary McAleese at the opening of the Intercultural Centre in 2006, with former Cooridinator Jacob Nwazota, former ChairpersonAlva O'Dea and Stella Esemuede |
Background
Phase 1: Project Development 2004-2006.
In the early years of this decade two groups were established in the Canal Communities area with an interest in intercultural issues: Canal Connections, a client-led group of immigrants, asylum-seekers and refugees and the Rainbow Neighbourhood Project. Canal Connections had emerged from research carried out by Canal Communities Partnership, while Rainbow Neighbourhood Project had emerged from outreach work undertaken by Rialto Community Network.
Through a process that was actively supported by the Canal Communities Partnership, the Canal Connections and Rainbow project agreed to work closely together to strengthen the voice of the new communities across the Canal area. A new group called the Canal Communities Intercultural Centre was formed. With ongoing support from Canal Communities Partnership, this group received start up funding from the European Refugee Fund in 2005. An ambitious piece of action research was undertaken to establish what the community wanted from the Intercultural Centre.
Phase 2: Opening and establishing the Centre 2006-2007.
The Intercultural Centre found premises on Ring Terrace in Inchicore, and was officially in September 2006 by President Mary McAleese. A volunteer coordinator was employed, and a programme of health & social programmes delivered. We conducted research into the health needs of the new communities and also secured funding to develop an Intercultural Youth Work Strategy for the Canal Communities area in conjunction with the Canal Communities Regional Youth Service and local Youth Work providers.
Phase 3: Becoming Independent 2008- 2009.
Canal Communities Intercultural Centre Ltd became incorporated as an independent company in 2008. A new manager was employed and a strategic planning process completed. A key focus for this phase was the securing of funding in light of the changes in funding for integration work.
If you would like to get involved in this exciting phase, or learn more about the centre we'd be very happy to talk to you so contact us today.
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