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The History

Our Story at a Glance

Take a quick journey through the milestones that shaped Shelldale Family Gateway. From our beginnings in 1991 to the vibrant community hub we are today, each moment reflects the voices, cultures, and families of Onward Willow. Explore how we grew, who helped build us, and how our commitment to children, youth, and families continues to evolve.

1991 —
The Beginning

  • Better Beginnings, Better Futures launches in the Onward Willow neighbourhood, creating the foundation for what will become Shelldale Family Gateway.

  • Local families, residents, and community leaders begin shaping programs designed to support children and families.

​Early 1990s — Community‑Led Growth

  • Neighbourhood voices like Rotarian Charlie Whittaker, whose leadership helped establish the organization, guides the development of early childhood programs, family supports, and youth initiatives.

  • Partnerships with local organizations and volunteers strengthen the project’s impact.

Mid–Late 1990s —

A Hub Takes Shape

  • The work expands beyond early childhood to include recreation, family support, and multicultural programming.

  • The vision of a shared community space begins to form.

2000s —
The Shelldale Centre Emerges

  • Multiple agencies come together under one roof, creating the Shelldale Centre, a collaborative hub serving the Onward Willow community.

  • Better Beginnings becomes a key anchor organization within the building.

2010s —
A New Identity

  • As programs grow and the organization’s role expands, the name Shelldale Family Gateway is adopted.

  • The new name reflects a long‑term commitment to being a gateway to support, connection, and opportunity for families.

2019 —
Celebrating Our Story

The community publishes “Realizing the Dream,” a book capturing the history, stories, and impact of the organization and the people who built it.

2020s —
Continuing the Legacy

  • Shelldale Family Gateway continues to evolve, offering multicultural, community‑driven programs for children, youth, and families.

  • The organization remains a vital support hub and a cornerstone of the Onward Willow neighbourhood.

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