Achēv
On Friday, a representative of local MPP Natalia Kusendova-Bashta met with the team at Achēv to celebrate $775,000 in funding they received through two grants from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). These investments from the Ontario Trillium Foundation are helping Achēv enhance digital service delivery and expand workforce programming, improving access and broadening service capacity across the organization to strengthen overall client support.
“Achēv has been a trusted community partner for many years, helping newcomers and job seekers build successful futures across Mississauga and the Regions of Peel and Halton, said Natalia Kusendova-Bashta. “Our government is proud to support Achēv through the Ontario Trillium Foundation with investments that strengthen digital services and expand workforce programming. These grants will make it easier for people to access the support they need, develop in-demand skills, and connect with meaningful employment opportunities, while ensuring Achēv can continue delivering high-quality services to our growing community.”
The first grant, awarded in 2024, enabled Achēv to successfully complete a critical digital modernization initiative supported by a $200,000 Ontario Trillium Foundation Resilient Communities Fund grant. Over 24 months, this investment supported the hiring of critical and specialized staff creation who were instrumental in the development of a new Online Service Hub, featuring a modern CRM, client portal and mobile app. Together, these tools deliver a connected client experience, providing seamless 24/7 access to programs, personalized recommendations, online registration, and progress tracking. The project also provided new opportunities for data analysis and informed decision-making, allowing Achēv to progressively improve programs and services based on client needs and outcomes.
The second grant, awarded in 2025, is supporting the expansion of Achēv’s Workplace Readiness Club to 4 additional Achēv Peel locations thanks to $575,000 in funding through a Ontario Trillium Foundation Grow Grant. The expanded program will support low‑income job seekers, including OW and ODSP recipients, through a two‑week hybrid model that combines workshops with individualized coaching. The initiative will directly benefit 288 participants between 2025 and 2028, helping them build job‑readiness skills, boost confidence, and strengthen long‑term financial stability.
“These Ontario Trillium Foundation grants have allowed us to modernize our service delivery and better meet the needs of our diverse communities,” said Rob Olson, Achēv’s COO. “Hiring new staff with specialized skills was critical to us to upgrade technology and improving access and ensure that newcomers and Canadians alike can achieve their goals with dignity and efficiency.”
For 35 years, Achēv has dedicated itself to helping newcomers and Canadians achieve their full potential. Today, it is one of the largest providers of employment, settlement, language, women, youth, and technology solutions services in the GTA. Further information about Achēv’s programs and services can be found at achev.ca.
“With support from the Ontario government through the Ontario Trillium Foundation, Royal Botanical Gardens is ensuring more people can access and enjoy its beautiful grounds and outstanding programming,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “RBG’s commitment to removing barriers creates a more welcoming experience for visitors of all ages and abilities, helping more Ontarians connect with nature, participate in programs and enjoy all that RBG has to offer.”
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. In 2025-26, OTF invested nearly $107M into 746 community projects. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
