WhAT is PICS?

A group of volunteers came together to form PICS in 1985, to meet the needs of the growing South Asian community in Surrey-Delta. For many years, the organization was steered by the Board, operated out of small rented quarters, and had no paid staff. However, over the past years the society has gone through significant changes in the structure, staff, facilities and programs.

PICS is a registered non-profit charity organization and a United Way member agency. We have strong relationships with funders and related organizations, and have successfully developed joint projects and sponsored new organizations.
Social, economic and demographic changes are constantly reshaping Canadian society.

Revenues now come from private, individuals, organizations, Government, diverse foundations, BC Gaming Branch and United Way of the Lower Mainland. The federal government alone funds eight different programs, which are expanding because they have successful outcomes and have exceeded their targets.

To remain effective and dynamic, PICS continues to build on its strengths in partnership with the South Asian community.

We have grown to offer a wide range of employment programs, English Language Services for Adults (ELSA), seniors housing, and we currently serve 50 people daily in the Surrey head office and 35 people daily in the Vancouver office. PICS currently has a staff of over 100, and 15 active volunteers.

The Vancouver Office was opened in 1996 to extend our services to a broader community, and to help fill the gap created by the closure of OASIS.

To view our 2009/2010 newsletter, click here.