Bajan Night 25th anniversary - Saturday, September 4, 2010 -
Contact: Jessica Carrington 905 472 1188.

Barbados Overseas Community-Canada Inc. (BOCC) was officially launched in April 1984 after several months of intense planning by a number of dedicated individuals who realized there was a void in the Barbadian Community in Toronto. Subsequently, BOCC became incorporated in 1986. In the early months after inception, the Association was subject to much criticism, which undoubtedly did not affect the progress and work of the organization. This criticism gave us the strength and courage to move forward.

 

Years later, we have made significant achievements. These were due mainly to the dedication and hard work by our members, and the keen support of friends. In 1992, the Youth Group was formed. The main purpose was to educate them about the Barbadian heritage. In 1995, we took over 23 youth to Barbados; a very education trip, one that made a lasting impression in the minds of all the involved young people.

 

BOCC has always been in the forefront as an active participant in the promotion of community events.

 

Our charitable donations in Canada and Barbados have been to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Herbie Fund, the Cancer Society, Sick Kids Hospital, Red Cross, Codrington College, Churches and donation of books to St. Joseph Primary School, to name a few. Recently BOCC collected and donated over 20 wheelchairs to Barbados to help the physically challenged.

 

BOCC continues to encourage education in your youth. In the last 5 years, we have given over 5 scholarships to deserving youth.

 

BOCC has been an active member of the National Council of Barbadian Associations in Canada Inc. since inception and has continued to participate in annual conferences throughout Canada and Barbados. This year’s conference will be held in Toronto from Friday, May 16-19, 2008.