LEF Mission, Values, and Priorities

Our vision of the future is one of healthy communities that enrich and empower all members, celebrate diversity, are inclusive, and provide a high quality of life.
Learn about our Impact

LEF's Mission

The mission of LEF is to provide integrated and holistic community-responsive initiatives that enable individuals and families to become valued contributors to their community’s social and economic development.

LEF's Values

It's not what we do, it's how we do things. LEF is not a single place, but a collective of our community. Our values are not just statements, they shape and drive the work we do every day.

  • Humility

    The patience and the calmness to listen, appreciate, and understand the value each person brings to our community.

  • Empowerment

    When people feel heard, they feel like they can speak and express their own stories, dreams, and goals.

  • Belonging

    We all need to belong to something that is bigger than just us. We strive to make our places and spaces safe, comfortable, and welcoming.

  • Enterprising

    We are made up of the community, individuals, families, staff, and volunteers who create new opportunities every day.

  • Tenacity

    Our staff and volunteers are stewards of work we do and create an environment where ideas can thrive and mistakes can be made.

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Help us build a Resilient Economy

Learn more about our impact

From over 1500 children in our child care centres every day, to over 2500 newcomers supported each year, LEF makes a big impact on the communities, individuals, and families we serve.
See our Impact

Related Pages

Donate
Help support the mission of LEF and contribute to the community's economic development with a kind donation.
About
Learn about the story of the Learning Enrichment Foundation since its founding in 1978, and our evolution and impact since.
Journey Towards Truth and Reconciliation
Join LEF on a transformative journey towards Truth and Reconciliation. We are committed to learning from and with Indigenous Peoples, moving beyond land acknowledgements to foster genuine understanding and meaningful action.
History
LEF's beginnings are rooted in the needs of the communities we've served since 1978, from the economic restructuring of York in the 1970s to expanding into skills training and child care, to today where we nourish communities with newcomer services and educational resources.
Publications
Read our Annual Reports and other publications, including recaps of events.
Board of Directors
Meet our dedicated Board of Directors. Learn about the individuals bringing a wealth of experience to LEF that allow us to grow stronger and innovate.
Funders and Donors
Learn about our valued funders and donors. Discover the partners supporting our mission and contributing to the success of the communities we work with.
Volunteer
Explore volunteer opportunities with LEF. Learn how you can contribute your time and skills to directly support and positively impact the community.
Become a Member
Become a Member of LEF and enjoy benefits like a membership card, regular updates, committee participation, and a vote at the annual meeting, Donations support multiculturalism and community empowerment with LEF, fostering positive change."