In 1965, the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), Toronto section, pioneered the Creative Living Program as a dynamic program for seniors who could plan and direct their own activities with the assistance of volunteers of the NCJW. After eight successful years, in 1973, the program was renamed the Centre for Creative Living. The centre moved to its present location at 1003 Steeles Ave. West in 1982. The building was renamed The Bernard Betel Centre for Creative Living, in memory of Bernard Betel, whose family made a significant financial contribution towards the construction of the building. The centre leases the land from the City of Toronto at a cost of $2 per annum.
In 1983, the centre established the Russian Golden Age Club in response to a demonstrated need for the Russian-speaking community. In 1985, the centre received funding from the Ministry of Health to operate the La’Briyut Wellness Centre. Today the La’Briyut Wellness Centre is our Health Promotion department with fitness classes, and various wellness and health promotion programs and events, including the chiropody clinic. In 1987, the centre received funding from the Ontario Ministry of Community and Social Services to provide community support services. In 1989, the ETROG Club (Hebrew-speaking club) was established.
In 1997, the community support services department expanded to offer service to the Russian-speaking senior community. This year, was also the introduction of the At-Home Respite Care program, the only volunteer program of its kind in Toronto. In 2001, the chiropody clinic expanded from ½ day to 2 days per week, and in 2004 expanded again to 3 days per week. Today, the chiropody clinic offers services to seniors 5 days per week.
In 2003, the centre received significant funds for renovations and the creation of our Computer Learning Centre. In 2005, the centre became part of the Central LHIN. In 2007, the centre was rebranded to the Bernard Betel Centre.
In 2015, the Bernard Betel Centre proudly celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of Creative Living and honouring the vision, leadership, volunteers, and participants who helped shape the organization.
In 2025, the Centre celebrated its 60th anniversary, recognizing six decades of supporting older adults through innovative programs, community services, and meaningful social connections. This milestone highlighted the organization’s continued commitment to helping older adults live active, engaged, and connected lives.
Today, the Bernard Betel Centre is a vibrant, welcoming, and inclusive community hub offering a wide range of recreational, cultural, educational, health, and social programs that support older adults in living active, connected, and meaningful lives. Thousands of participants engage each year in programs, special events, volunteer opportunities, and community services. Many lasting friendships have been formed through the warm and supportive environment the Bernard Betel Centre provides. We are proud of our history and remain committed to ensuring our programs continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of older adults now and into the future.