The Guru Nanak Sikh Organization of Yukon has completed renovations on the Yukon’s first permanent Gurdwara. The Government of Yukon’s Community Development Fund supported the organization with $165,000 to complete remedial and restoration work to the area surrounding the old Salvation Army Adults Halfway House building.
The restored facility will provide a place where Sikh Yukoners can practice their faith and where the Guru Nanak Sikh Organization can provide services such as meals, accommodation, mental health support, workshops, cultural events and assistance to newcomers to the Yukon.
The Yukon’s Community Development Fund provides funding for projects, events and initiatives that offer long-term, sustainable economic and social benefits for Yukon communities. Click here for more information on the Community Development Fund.
The Yukon is home to a large Sikh population, which has continued to grow since the early 1900s. It is fantastic that the Government of Yukon is able to partner with the Guru Nanak Sikh Organization of Yukon to develop this new space where Sikh Yukoners can share a stronger sense of community and better welcome newcomers to the territory.
Minister of Economic Development Ranj Pillai
The mandate of Guru Nanak Sikh Organization of Yukon is to create a culture that recognizes the human race as one, and helping those who are in need. The Gurdwara promotes principles of Sikhism such as equality and inclusion and is open to all members of society regardless of their race, caste, class, gender or creed. Here at Akaljot Sahib Gurdwara, we provide daily programming and services for members such as Sangat (congregation), Langar (community meal) and Seva (selfless community service). Also, being that the Yukon is an immigration hub for the Sikh Community, this Gurdwara aims to provide services geared towards successful integration of new immigrants into society. Newcomers often have language barriers, do not have experience with extreme temperatures, and may lack important supports and resources. Akaljot Sahib Gurdwara works with newcomers in mitigating these barriers.
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.
Rupinder Bhupal, President of Guru Nanak Sikh Organization of Yukon
A Gurdwara is a place of assembly and worship for Sikhs. Sikhs also refer to Gurdwaras as Gurdwara Sahibs or Sikh Temple. People from all faiths are welcomed in Gurdwaras.
The Guru Nanak Sikh Organization of Yukon was established in 1988 to commemorate important Sikh festivals.
The members of the Sikh community completed the purchase of a 1.5 acre property including the building across from the Whitehorse International Airport in September 2021.
The Community Development Fund is divided into three tiers with the following application deadlines:
- Tier 1: Applications of $20,000 or less on January 15, May 15, July 15 and October 15.
- Tier 2: Applications between $20,000 and $75,000 on April 15 and September 15.
- Tier 3: Applications over $75,000 on January 15.
Jacob Wilson
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
jacob.wilson@yukon.ca
Rupinder Bhupal
Guru Nanak Sikh Organization of Yukon
867-393-1699
Damian Topps
Communications, Economic Development
867-667-5378
damian.topps@yukon.ca