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- Back2Basickz - August Newsletter 2024
Back2Basickz - August Newsletter 2024
Back2Basickz
August 06, 2024
 Amanda Coombs, Executive Director, Back2Basickz Youth Support Services | Dear community, As summer school comes to an end, I want to wish our youth a safe and joyful summer. I encourage you to spend time outdoors, build new friendships, and explore new activities. I also want to take a moment to honour the memory of Louis March, a dedicated youth advocate and the Founder of the Zero Gun Violence Movement. His sudden passing is a great loss to our community, and his impact on the City of Toronto will never be forgotten. He will be truly missed. Please remember that grief impacts us all differently. We have included information regarding support for grief in this issue of our newsletter. |
Our Monthly Calendar
August
MONDAYS | TUESDAYS | WEDNESDAYS | THURSDAYS | FRIDAYS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
For Team Building! | For Mental Health! | For Entrepreneurship! | For Education! | Fun Fridays! |
5th: Conflict resolution 12th: Peer pressure | 6th: Intro to college and university applications 6th: Soccer & Volleyball 13th: Plan for educational success 27th: Dance-A-Thon | 7th: Cover letter/ resume writing workshop 7th: Nail technician (5-week workshop) 14th: Mock interviews | 1st:Professionalism and volunteering 8th: Food bank presentation 15th: Exploring internships and apprenticeships | 9th: The hate you give (book time) 16th: Year of the gun (film) 23rd: Karaoke |
Success Story
We are thrilled to celebrate our young authors—Anand Ramsuchit Jr, Bianca Wade, Shanique Wade, Kyle Colman, and Tanae Morris—for their incredible achievements, hard work, and dedication.
They successfully completed the 5-week book workshop and have written their very first books, which are now available on Amazon.
A very special thanks to Kamelah Blair, author, publisher, and Executive Director of COJ BOOKZ, for guiding and mentoring our youth, turning their dreams of becoming authors into reality. This is just the beginning for our talented young authors, and we anticipate even more greatness to come.
Please support our youth by purchasing their books on Amazon and don't forget to leave a review.
Job well done, everyone!
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Monthly highlight
Nothing compares to the laughs and jumps of our youth after receiving good news! We want to express our most felt gratitude to the Kevin Burke Family Foundation. Our current Gaming Youth Program will be extended thanks to the foundation’s $3000 donation. We also would like to extend a thank you to the TD Community Engagement Centre for providing us with the space to facilitate our program. |  |
In honour of Louis March
 Louis March, Founder of Zero Gun Violence Movement | At Back2Basickz, we mourn the loss of Louis March, founder of the Zero Gun Violence Movement. Back2Basickz had the honour of collaborating with Lois March in his tireless efforts for safer communities and lasting solutions to end gun violence, being an extraordinary example for many youth. Rest in power, Louis. Your legacy will endure in our hearts and actions. |
If you need support navigating grief and related feelings, please do not hesitate in reaching out to the following services:
1. Telephone: 211 (24/7 community helpline)
2. Kids Help Phone is Canada’s only 24/7 e-mental health service offering free, multilingual and confidential support to help all young people Feel Out Loud. Call 1800-668-6868 or Text 686868
3. Support services for caregivers and family who are living with grief and loss. Sunnybrook Spiritual & Religious Care Non-Urgent Telephone: 416-480-4421
 | On Saturday, July 20th, 2024, we had the opportunity to take some of the youth to K1 Speed. They enjoyed indoor go-kart racing and arcade games with other community members. Congratulations to Mason, Nick, and Isaiah for securing 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place! |  |
 August 6th, 2024 @ 4:00 p.m. | Join us for an action-packed day of soccer and volleyball fun! Whether you are a seasoned player or just looking to have a blast and meet new friends, this event is for you. We will have games and plenty of opportunities to show off your skills or simply enjoy the excitement. Don't miss out on this thrilling day of sports and togetherness. Bring your friends and your energy. See you there! |
Our last nail technician workshop was a hit! Due to high demand, we are thrilled to announce another 5-week session. Scan the QR code to secure your spot and register today! Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity! |  |
 August 23rd, 2024 @ 5:00 p.m. | Get ready to sing your heart out at our upcoming Karaoke Night! This event is all about enjoying great music and having a blast with friends. We will have a wide selection of songs to choose from, delicious snacks, and tons of laughs. Bring your friends and your best song choice. We can't wait to hear from you! Let’s make it a night to remember! |
Calling all youth! Get ready for an epic evening of non-stop music, fun, and dancing at our Dance-A-Thon! This is your chance to show off your dance moves, enjoy great tunes, and have an unforgettable time with friends. Bring your energy, your friends, and your best dance moves! Don’t miss out on the most exciting dance event of the year! Come ready to have fun, dance like nobody’s watching, and make it a night to remember! See you on the dance floor! |  August 27th, 2024 @ 5:00 p.m. |
Special invites from our BYOU partners!
Our community partners have extended friendly invitations to some of their upcoming activities. For more information, please check the flyers below.
Help us to Help
Our services are open to our youth and community members. Your contribution helps us keep our programs accessible to all.
Visit us!
Jane & Finch 1 York Gate Blvd, North York, ON M3N 3A1 - Second Floor (TD Community Engagement Center) Phone: 1-647-514-3124 Email: [email protected] | Scarborough 880 Ellesmere Rd, Unit 304, Scarborough, ON M1P 2L8 Phone: 1-647-514-3124 Email: [email protected] |
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