Who we are

The International Federation of Settlements and Neighbourhood Centres (IFS) is a global movement that connects community organizations that represent and respond to the different needs, strengths and aspirations of families and communities. Its mission is to build an inclusive global community by empowering, inspiring and connecting people who are working locally for social justice. Learn more »

Membership

IFS has more than 60 members in 21 countries representing over 400 organizations. Members enjoy discounted conference rates, access to online forums and resources, and frequent updates on other member organizations. Learn more about becoming a member today! »

The Local World: Putting Communities at the Centre

Save the date for the 2008 IFS conference! October 9-11 in Helsinki, Finland. Register online today! »

Aspire: Building confidence and raising aspirations

Based in Tower Hamlets in the East End of London, Toynbee Hall’s new Aspire programme works to embed an innovative approach to learning for disengaged young people who are not fully grasping the opportunities that school offers them. Six months into this pilot year, young people describe feeling more like themselves, being liked as they are, and no longer isolated. More about Aspire »

Announcements

Yvonne Olsen of USA named new Executive Director of IFS

IFS is pleased to welcome its new executive director, Yvonne Olsen. Ms. Olsen comes to IFS with a breadth of knowledge and experience in non-governmental organizations, including more than 18 years as Vice President of Pillsbury United Communities, an agency which grew out of the Settlement House Movement. Learn more »

Neighbourhood House Development Toolkit

The School of Social Work at the University of British Columbia and the Association of Neighbourhood Houses of Greater Vancouver have formed a partnership to develop a research project that will create a manual and tool kit for neighbourhood house development. Learn more »