On August 20, more than 250 youth from Toronto's priority neighbourhoods celebrated their success as student employees in the Focus on Youth (FOY) initiative.
Employed as camp counsellors and youth activity leaders, the students worked in summer programs organized by 90 non-profit community agencies using space at 100 schools in the TDSB, free of charge.
In addition to eight weeks of work, students gained valuable knowledge and skills through leadership training in such areas as first aid, workplace health and safety, job readiness, peer mediation, and equity.
Now in its second year, FOY served over 15,000 children and youth in a variety of recreational and cultural activities in local neighbourhoods, thanks to a $6 million grant from the Ministry of Education.
"This program allows for learning to extend beyond the classroom and the regular school year. We are providing opportunities to engage students year-round," said Ontario’s Minister of Education, the Honourable Kathleen Wynne.
Trustee Shaun Chen, who served on the Focus on Youth Toronto Steering Committee, joined Minister Wynne and MPP Bas Balkissoonat Lester B. Pearson Collegiate Institute to make the funding announcement last April.
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"Community involvement is tied to student achievement, as it gives young people choices and opportunities to be engaged in positive ways. Today's grant announcement demonstrates our shared commitment to the success of our students," said Trustee Chen.
The TDSB worked closely with United Way of Greater Toronto to bring in community partners. "Opening our schools to community programs is a significant part of the effort to set our youth on pathways to success," said Frances Lankin, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Toronto.
"United Way is proud to be part of an innovative program that will mean the world to youth in our city. Thanks to Focus On Youth, thousands of young people in neighbourhoods across Toronto will again be able to take part in recreational, leadership and employment opportunities they would not otherwise have," added Lankin.
In Ward 21, FOY programs were delivered by the 3T Program, Chitra's Child Care Services, Malvern Family Resource Centre, Malvern Rouge Valley Youth Service, and Youth Unlimited.
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