The Opening Doors Project  

The Opening Doors Project is about strengthening and fostering healthier communities in Ontario by facilitating interactive and experiential workshops that address mental health, racism and discrimination within newcomer communities and communities of mental health survivors.

Funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the goal of The Opening Doors Project is to enhance the wellbeing of newcomers and mental health survivors by helping to create welcoming, inclusive communities for immigrants and refugees, particularly those experiencing mental health challenges.

To learn about our workshops, click here.

To read The Opening Doors Project 2018/2019 Annual Report, click here.

To book a workshop for your agency, please contact us at: info@cmhato.org or call us at 416-789-7957 x 3244. For additional questions and information, please contact us at: openingdoors@cmhato.org.

Syrian and Newcomer Youth Mentorship Initiative

The Syrian and Newcomer Youth Mentorship Initiative (SNYMI) is an initiative with The Opening Doors Project that helps Syrian and Newcomer youth adjust to life in Canada through group sessions and one-on-one meetings. Our Syrian and Newcomer Youth Mentors provide a safe place where youth can explore issues of identity and mental health challenges, discuss their educational and professional goals, and receive support as they navigate the immigration and settlement processes.

The Syrian and Newcomer Youth Mentorship Initiative

Syrian and Newcomer youth often find themselves straddling two cultures, and have to make the choice between holding to their background and cultural identity, or assimilating with the dominant Canadian culture. At the same time, they are dealing with psychological trauma as the result of living in a war-torn country, having witnessed violence, and having lost loved ones. It is no surprise that many of them are experiencing mental health challenges.

Where are SNYMI Services offered?

Our Syrian and Newcomer Youth Mentors engage with youth, educating and mentoring them in their schools, in community centres and in other community locations. In addition to one-on-one meetings, they also run conversation circles, book clubs, and a soccer team.

How do you apply for SNYMI Services?

Individuals can self-refer. We also accept referrals from settlement and other community agencies, School Boards and all other agencies or institutions that work or come into contact with Syrian and Newcomer youth who could benefit from peer mentoring within the GTA. Referrals can be made by calling 416-789-7957 x3244. For additional questions and information, please contact us at: symentor@cmhato.org.

Learn more about the Syrian and Newcomer Youth Mentorship Initiative from our Syrian and Newcomer Youth Mentors and youth involved in the program:

Syrian and Newcomer Youth Mentorship Initiative Video

This program is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.