Established in 1965, The Canadian Arab Friendship Association (CAFA Centre) started as a small dream of a few community members determined to preserve Arabic language and heritage for generations to come. Throughout time, CAFA succeeded in becoming a significant part of the multicultural mosaic in Edmonton, and was involved in many arts and cultural events. The year 1986 marked the official opening of CAFA ‘s office in Dickinsfield Mall, where the Association expanded to offer an array of academic, social and numerous community related services.
CAFA participated in several civic and cultural activities, and is a founding member of the Edmonton Heritage Festival. CAFA participated in many projects such as the Youth Vision – Coming in Harmony, which earned an Honorary Mention in the Readers Digest Excellence in Education Award. CAFA is also recognized by Alberta Education, The City of Edmonton, The Province of Alberta, Edmonton Community and Family Services, Edmonton Police Services, and other agencies for their excellence in community services.

CAFA has been recognized both locally and nationally. The Project Youth Vision – Coming in Harmony, (A Canadian Heritage Funded Project) received, via teacher Dennis Koch, Honorary Mention in the Readers Digest Excellence In Education Award. CAFA has also been recognized by Alberta Education, The City of Edmonton, The Province of Alberta, Edmonton Community and Family Services, Edmonton Police Services, and other agencies for CAFA’s excellence in community services.

CAFA has affiliations/partnerships with Alberta Education, ECALA, Northlands, Mennonite Center, FCSS amongst others.

Vision:

The Canadian Arab Friendship Association is a not-for-profit organization that falls under and abides by the Canadian Society Act.

CAFA’s vision is to ensure smooth settlement for Arab new comers and existing community members in the province, while supporting them to preserve their own identity and culture.

Mission:

CAFA focuses on the following in parallel with our vision:
-To provide workshops/events to new comers and existing members to learn about Canada: government, education, workforce, economy …etc.

-To provide workshops/seminars to reduce culture shock and increase their awareness and respect of Canadian culture and other cultures and civilizations(Diversity and inclusion).
-To offer guidance related to becoming effective productive citizens.
-To connect Canadian Arabs and new comers with various communities,  organizations and small businesses to learn more about the workforce.
-To assist them in preserving their own culture and heritage while learning about western culture.
Loyalty Commitment Devotion remain at the core of our mission.