United Way Greater Toronto funds a comprehensive network of community agencies and partners with many more. Well-versed in their service areas, these agencies have varying levels of expertise when it comes to the world of real estate, an area that many are moving into to protect continuing community services and space in the neighbourhoods they serve. Our job is to support their learning journey with a variety of tools and opportunities that meet them where they are at.
Learning Opportunities and Resources
We work in collaboration with expert partners to provide opportunities help equip agencies with the skills and knowledge to succeed in today’s real estate market and to manage vital community spaces long-term. Check back regularly for updated resources.
Keys to Community Real Estate: Real Estate Acquisition and Development Learning Resource for Non-profits
Starting July 23, 2025
A self-paced online learning resource that equips non-profit leaders with the practical skills and strategic insight to make informed, mission-aligned real estate decisions. Participants can access on-line modules, individual coaching and more to improve their knowledge on topics from ownership models and risk management to in-depth guidance on financial modeling and capital raising.
To get information on upcoming course dates fill out the online form.
Check out our Keys to Community Real Estate Syllabus
Partner
The Accelerator Program
Programming from January 15-June 18, 2025
For community organizations already with a site or partnership in mind, this six-month program provides support through the pre-development phase to flesh out a detailed, pitch-ready project.
Partners
The Organizational Readiness Program
March 2024-June 2025
The six-week Organizational Readiness program, recommended as an introduction for those applying to the Accelerator program, partnered participants with mentors to strengthen their capacity to develop a Social Purpose Real Estate (SPRE) project.
ConsultationS
Hands-on, customized support every step of the way and a host of resources.
Understanding the Leasing Process webinar
Non-profits rely heavily on leasing space to support their work across our neighbourhoods. This webinar will provide you with information to ensure that you can continue to sustain your operations, through maximizing the value of your organization through the leasing process, while minimizing your risks. Whether it’s having the funds to improve your leased space, avoiding unforeseen maintenance costs, or structuring a lease to ensure long flexibility, this webinar will speak to all these and more. Join us for this engaging and informative session!
Learning Goals:
- Understanding Leasing Myths
- Understanding the Leasing Process
- Understanding Critical Lease Clauses
- Understanding your Opportunities in the Market
Partner
Past, present and future opportunities are designed to equip agencies with the skills and knowledge to succeed in today’s real estate market and to manage vital community spaces long-term.
Community Impact
As of summer 2025, more than 150 agencies have benefited. What’s more, many have been able to put their newfound skills into action that is already having an impact in their community.
The Somali Communities Foundation, StepStones for Youth and Warden Woods Community Centre, with the support of United Way’s Expanding Community Space Grants, are moving forward on new projects resulting in vital community spaces long term.
Learn more
January 03, 2025
Strong neighbourhoods need community spaces
As rising costs threaten the future of community service organizations, United Way launches new strategy to protect community spaces across the GTA.
November 15, 2024
United Way Greater Toronto moves into social purpose real estate
With some agency spaces in precarious spaces, the response is aimed at providing long-term stability in a region experiencing rapid growth.
February 04, 2025
The affordable housing crisis affects everyone
How United Way is working to champion community real estate amid rising rents and a volatile real estate market.