Grant Recipients Testimonial
“On behalf of Trails Youth Initiatives, I thank Ontario Realtors Care Foundation for the recent donation that contributes to ensuring that vulnerable Toronto youth will thrive despite their challenging underpinnings. Youth engage in our outdoor adventure based programme at our 153 acre Newmarket site for 1 weekend each month during the school year and for two weeks in the summer. Trails’ staff team is dedicated to creating a safe environment built on trust, respect and compassion. The buildings, both the main lodge and cabins, provide shelter from external factors such as: crime, violence, bullying, intolerance, and systemic oppression, and are also where youth learn how to be vulnerable, resolve conflict, share accomplishments and create positive relationships. Youth learn and practise emotional safety skills such as: honesty, compassion, courage and trust. Over the holidays, I received an email from a young man who graduated from the programme in the summer. It simply said in the subject title “How are you guys? I miss you!” Trails is a home, a constant for youth whether they are in the programme or have graduated. This for me exemplifies what Trails stands for. Thank you Ontario Realtors Care Foundation! The grant ensures physical and emotional shelter for inner city youth.“
Julia Morch, Executive Director, Trails Youth Initiatives