Dear Back 2 Basickz Family,

With summer well underway, August reminds us to soak in every last moment of sunshine, connection, and growth. At Back 2 Basickz, this month is all about celebrating the energy of summer while preparing our youth and families for a strong, supported start to the school year.

From community outings and youth workshops to our upcoming Back to School Drive, we’re continuing to create safe spaces where young people can heal, vibe, and connect. One of the highlights we’re especially looking forward to this month is our overnight trip to Moorelands Kids Camp, where our youth will have a chance to explore the outdoors, build confidence, and make unforgettable memories.

As always, thank you to our supporters, families, and partners who help us keep our mission alive. Let’s finish the summer strong and step into fall ready to rise.

With gratitude,

Amanda Coombs

Executive Director

Back 2 Basickz

Shout out to Cindy for being an amazing participant! 

She has shown great dedication by actively joining our workshops and continuing to grow and improve herself, building towards a bright future.

Shout out to Jossi for being an incredible youth leader!

Jossi is being recognized for her leadership, advocacy for justice, and commitment to creating a respectful, positive space in our Gaming Youth Program. She shows up, speaks up, and steps up, always ready to help and support others. We’re proud of you, Jossi!

Mental Health Advocate Award

We are proud to celebrate our Executive Director, Amanda Coombs, for receiving the Community Impact Award at this year’s Mental Health Advocate Awards hosted by Reach Out Together. Amanda’s dedication to mental health advocacy and her unwavering commitment to supporting our youth is truly inspiring. She continues to make time to ensure every young person feels heard, valued, and supported on their mental health journey.

Join our Youth Reset Program!

If you are involved in the justice system, facing suspension or expulsion from school, currently out of school, unemployed. We are here for you. 

We’re here to empower youth in our community with the justice, guidance, and support they need to reset and move forward.

Join Back 2 Basickz cooking program at Don Montgomery every Thursday!

Learn to make affordable, healthy and delicious recipes with expert guidance from our community Chef Anna-Kay Brown. The meals are fun, flavourful, culture-oriented and perfect for all skill levels.

Step Dance Class

Unleash your energy in a fun, high-intensity workout! 

This dynamic class will help you improve your cardio, build rhythm, and enhance coordination- all while having fun.

Back 2 Basickz

East Meets West Summer BBQ

Back 2 Basickz east and west locations combine to have a BBQ at Hendon Park. 

 We’re excited to host a special BBQ that brings together youth from our Scarborough and Finch locations for an afternoon of fun, food, and connection.

This event is all about building friendships, strengthening community ties, and celebrating the amazing young people we serve. Come out and enjoy great food, exciting activities, and a chance to create lasting memories!

Scarborough Shooting Stars Basketball Game

Join Back 2 Basickz for an exciting evening of basketball as the Scarborough Shooting Stars take on the Vancouver Bandits at the Pan Am Sports Centre!

Back 2 Basickz Mooreland Summer Camp Trip

We’re thrilled to take 50 youth from our Scarborough and Finch locations on an unforgettable summer camp adventure at Moorelands! This trip is designed to give our youth an opportunity to connect with nature, build friendships, and develop leadership skills in a fun and supportive environment. It’s going to be an experience filled with learning, laughter, and lasting memories!

Summer Beach Party at the Scarborough Bluffs 

Join us for some fun in the sun at the Scarborough Bluffs!

Beat the heat with Back 2 Basickz at our Summer Beach Party! Join us for a day of fun in the sun with games, music, and great vibes by the water. Don’t miss this chance to cool off, relax, and make unforgettable summer memories. Bring your beach gear!

Our youth will be heading out to Rouge National Urban Park for an exciting day of fishing and outdoor fun! This free trip offers a great opportunity to connect with nature, learn new skills, and enjoy a relaxing day by the water.

Air Brush Workshop

Join us for a hands-on session where participants will learn to design custom stencils and airbrush their own unique designs onto shirts. Unleash your creativity, explore new skills, and take home personalized wearable art!

42 Rides 

Annual X-Game Competition

As part of the MFRC Youth 42 Rides Program, this exciting event brings together youth to experience the thrill of extreme sports. Back 2 Basickz will be there to enjoy the action, cheer competitors, and soak up the high-energy atmosphere.

Back 2 Basickz Intergenerational Seniors Program

Come be part of a warm, welcoming space where generations come together! Our Intergenerational Seniors Program offers music, interactive activities, and delicious food, creating meaningful opportunities to connect, share stories, and build lasting friendships. Led by our passionate youth leaders, this program celebrates community, joy, and togetherness.

Proudly supported by the Government of Canada

Back to School BBQ

Join us for our Back - to - School BBQ!

Celebrate the start of a new school year with delicious food, fun activities, and community vibes.

Registered participants will receive brand new back packs with school supplies- everything you need to kick off the school year fresh and ready for success.

Join us every Friday in August for She Belongs

This is an empowering workshop series where inspiring York University alumnae share their journeys and encourage young women, and nonbinary youth to pursue careers in fields where Black women are underrepresented.

This is an incredible opportunity to gain insight, build confidence, and envision your future in spaces where you truly belong!

Plants to Plate Program Launch

Join us every Monday in August for a hands-on experience at Black Creek Community Farm! Participants will learn about healthy eating, urban farming, and cooking through interactive sessions, including planting, harvesting, and nutrition workshops.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with nature, gain valuable skills, and shop for fresh produce at the farmer’s market

Back 2 Basickz is looking for passionate volunteers to help tutor our youth!

Whether it’s math, french, or any other subject, your time and skills can make a huge difference.

Join us in empowering the next generation!

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]