Dear Back 2 Basickz Family,

As we move through August, I’m incredibly proud of the energy, growth, and connections our community continues to build together. Our summer programming is in full swing, with We Outside bringing youth together for outdoor activities, wellness, and community engagement, our Teen Summer Camp creating opportunities for learning, leadership, and lasting friendships, and Plants to Plate giving participants the chance to grow fresh food, develop new skills, and explore healthy living from garden to table.

We're also excited to see the continued success of Bridging the Gap, our intergenerational seniors program now taking place at the Jamaica Canadian Association (JCA). Bringing youth and seniors together to learn, connect, and share experiences reminds us of the power of community across generations. With our annual camping trip just around the corner, we look forward to more empowerment, fun and memories.

Thank you to our participants, families, volunteers, staff, and community partners for making this summer so memorable. We hope you take time to enjoy the sunshine, stay active, stay hydrated, and make the most of these beautiful summer days. Stay cool, stay safe, and we look forward to seeing you at our upcoming programs!

With gratitude,

Amanda Coombs

Executive Director

Back 2 basickz

Back2Youth Business: Barber, Braiding & Nail Studio

Our newly renovated Barber & Braiding studio is here and is more than just a place for a fresh cut or braid-up. It is a vibrant platform for our youth to showcase their skills while creating unique hairstyles.

In collaboration with Back 2 Basickz staff and the youth, this space was painted by a team and designed to reflect their very own styling salon with new chairs, mirrors and lighting to enhance the space.

The new and improved Barber & Braiding studio looks forward to serving youth and the community. See flyer for more information on how to book an appointment.

A Space for Healing – Tuesday, August 4th | 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. 

Join us for A Space for Healing, a Mental Health & Wellness workshop designed to provide youth with a safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment to share their thoughts, emotions, and personal experiences. Through open discussion and guided reflection, participants will explore healthy coping strategies, build emotional resilience, and connect with others who may be facing similar challenges.

Whether you're dealing with stress, grief, anxiety, or simply need a space to be heard, this workshop encourages healing, personal growth, and hope at your own pace. 

Music Workshop – Wednesday, August 5th | 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. 

Join us for our Music Workshop, where youth can discover their musical talents in a fun, creative, and supportive environment. Whether you're interested in singing, songwriting, producing, or learning the fundamentals of music, this hands-on session will help you build confidence, develop new skills, and express yourself through music.

Open to all skill levels, this workshop is a great opportunity to learn from experienced mentors, collaborate with others, and explore your creativity.

Basketball Runs – Friday, August 7th | 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 

Join us for Basketball Runs, an exciting evening of friendly competition, teamwork, and active fun. Whether you're an experienced player or just looking to shoot some hoops and stay active, this session offers a welcoming environment to build confidence, improve your basketball skills, make new friends, and enjoy the game.

Come out, get moving, and experience the positive impact that sports can have on your physical and mental well-being.

Unlock Your Breath – Monday, August 10th | 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. 

Join us for Unlock Your Breath, a Mental Health & Wellness workshop focused on the power of mindful breathing to reduce stress, improve focus, and support overall well-being. Participants will learn simple breathing techniques that can help manage anxiety, regulate emotions, increase relaxation, and promote both physical and mental health. Whether you're looking to feel calmer, boost your energy, or develop healthy coping skills, this workshop offers practical tools you can use every day.

Movie Night – Spider-Man: Brand New Day – Tuesday, August 11th 

Join us for an exciting Movie Night featuring Spider-Man: Brand New Day! Take a break, relax, and enjoy an evening of action, laughter, and entertainment with friends in a fun and welcoming environment. This event is a great opportunity to connect with other youth, unwind from the stresses of everyday life, and build positive social connections while enjoying free popcorn and drinks.

Come out for a memorable night of community, fun, and your favorite friendly neighborhood superhero!

Cooking Workshop – Wednesday, August 12th | 4:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 

Join us for our Cooking Workshop, where youth will learn valuable cooking skills while preparing delicious meals in a fun, interactive, and supportive environment. Participants will gain confidence in the kitchen, explore healthy food choices, practice teamwork, and develop practical life skills that can be used every day.

Whether you're a beginner or enjoy cooking, this hands-on workshop is a great opportunity to learn new recipes, connect with others, and discover the joy of creating meals from scratch.

Afrofest – Friday, August 14th | 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. | Woodbine Park 

Join us for Afrofest, a vibrant celebration of African culture, music, food, art, and community at Woodbine Park. Youth will have the opportunity to experience live performances, cultural showcases, interactive activities, and connect with people from diverse backgrounds in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.

This exciting outing encourages cultural appreciation, community engagement, and meaningful connections while celebrating the richness and diversity of African heritage.

Daily Workout Routine for Healthy Living – Monday, August 17th | 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. 

Join us for our Daily Workout Routine for Healthy Living workshop and discover simple, effective exercises that can easily become part of your everyday routine. Participants will learn the fundamentals of fitness, proper movement techniques, and healthy habits that promote physical and mental well-being.

Whether you're just starting your fitness journey or looking to stay active, this workshop will help you build confidence, improve your overall health, and develop a sustainable routine for a healthier lifestyle.

Bowling – Wednesday, August 19th | 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Kennedy Bowl 

Join us for an exciting afternoon of Bowling, where youth can have fun, build friendships, and enjoy some friendly competition in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Whether you're a first-time bowler or an experienced player, this outing is a great opportunity to develop teamwork, boost confidence, relieve stress, and create lasting memories while staying active and connecting with others in the community.

Swimming at McGregor Park – Friday, August 21st | 3:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. 

Join us for a fun-filled afternoon of Swimming at McGregor Park, where youth can cool off, stay active, and enjoy a safe and exciting day at the pool. Participants will have the opportunity to swim, play games, listen to music, and connect with friends in a positive and welcoming environment.

This outing encourages physical activity, confidence, teamwork, and social connection while creating lasting summer memories.

CPR Training – Saturday & Sunday, August 22nd–23rd | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 

Join us for our CPR Training workshop and gain the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively in emergency situations. Participants will receive hands-on training in CPR, AED operation, and basic first aid while learning essential life-saving skills from certified instructors.

This workshop is a valuable opportunity to become CPR certified, build confidence, and develop practical skills that can help protect family, friends, and members of your community.

Back to School BBQ – Friday, August 28th | 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Jack Goodlad Park 

Join us for our Back to School BBQ, a fun community event celebrating the start of a new school year! Enjoy great food, games, music, and family-friendly activities while connecting with other youth and community members.

Registered participants will also have the opportunity to receive a free backpack filled with school supplies to help them prepare for a successful school year. Come out for an afternoon of fun, support, and community as we kick off the school season together.

Find Your Voice. Tell Your Story. Make an Impact.

This August, join Staged Impact, a FREE performing arts program where youth use theatre, storytelling, and creativity to explore real-life issues, build confidence, and develop leadership skills in a fun and supportive environment.

Whether you love acting or just want to try something new, everyone is welcome—no experience needed!

What You'll Experience:

Acting & improvisation activities
Creative writing & storytelling
Confidence and public speaking skills
Team-building and new friendships
A safe space to express yourself and be heard, by turning your story in a stage production to be performed by your peers.

Every Monday & Friday in August
🕔 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

🍕 FREE to attend
🍽️ Food provided every session

Join us for 3 days in August for weekly trips to the Black Creek Community Farm Farmers' Market! Discover where local food comes from, meet local farmers and vendors, and learn about fresh, seasonal produce grown right here in our community.

 What You'll Do:

•  Tour the farm and learn about urban agriculture

•  Explore the farmers' market and meet local vendors

•  Receive a shopping stipend to purchase fresh produce and locally made products

•  Enjoy a fun afternoon outdoors with friends

📅 August 13, 20 & 27
🕑 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Our Concrete Rose Workshop empowers youth to overcome challenges, build resilience, and create a positive path forward. Through engaging discussions and practical strategies, participants explore how to develop a growth mindset, set meaningful goals, and stay motivated through life's obstacles.

Youth will learn three key principles: creating a mindset for personal growth, turning goals into action through planning and learning, and maintaining momentum even when faced with setbacks. This interactive workshop provides valuable life skills that help participants build confidence, strengthen resilience, and make positive choices for their future. Facilitated by Kwabena, the session creates a safe and supportive environment where youth are encouraged to grow, reflect, and thrive.

When: 

Thursday August 04, 2026 

2-5 PM

Create Your Own Handmade Soap!

Join us for a fun, hands-on Soap Making Workshop presented by the Toronto Beekeepers Collective!

Learn about natural ingredients, the benefits of beeswax and other bee products, and the art of crafting your own beautiful handmade soap.

What You'll Do:

•  Make and customize your own natural soap

•  Learn about bees, beeswax, and sustainable products

•  Explore natural ingredients used in soap making

•  Take your handmade soap home to enjoy or gift!

 No experience needed • All materials provided • Free to attend

Hosted by Back 2 Basickz Youth Support Services in partnership with the Toronto Beekeepers Collective

SEWING WORKSHOP #2 WITH LOLA 

Stitch, Create & Build Your Skills!

Join Lola for the second session of our exciting sewing workshop! Whether you're continuing from Workshop #1 or trying sewing for the first time, you'll build your confidence while learning practical sewing techniques in a fun and supportive environment.

What You'll Learn:

🪡 Build on your basic sewing skills
🧵 Learn new stitches and techniques
🎨 Create your own unique sewing project
💡 Express your creativity while learning a valuable life skill

FREE TO ATTEND, SNACKS & FOOD PROVIDED!

Cool Off • Have Fun • Make Memories!

Get ready for a day filled with sunshine, swimming, laughter, and good vibes! Join us for an exciting pool day where youth can relax, connect with friends, and enjoy a fun-filled summer experience.

When: Tuesday August 11, 2026 2-6PM 

Where: Grand Ravine outdoor pool. 

Free to attend, snacks & food provided.

Join the Toronto Beekeepers Collective for a fun, hands-on candle making experience! Learn about the incredible work of honeybees and discover how natural beeswax is transformed into beautiful, long-lasting candles.

What You'll Do:

• Learn about bees and the importance of pollinators Make your own natural beeswax candle

• Explore the benefits of beeswax and sustainable products

• Take your handmade candle home to enjoy or share!

 FREE Workshop all materials provided
 No experience needed—everyone is welcome!

Join the Toronto Beekeepers Collective and Back 2 Basickz for a FREE hands-on workshop where you'll learn how to make your own natural salve and lip balm using plant-based ingredients and bee-inspired products. 

What You'll Do:

• Learn about natural herbs and their benefits

• Create your own soothing salve

• Make your own nourishing lip balm

• Discover how beeswax and other natural ingredients are used in wellness products

• Take your handmade creations home!

Come make a splash at the Grand Ravine Community Centre Outdoor pool with WE RISE summer program. 

All you need to bring is a towel & good vibes!

Free to attend, food and snacks provided. 

2-5 PM 

We leave the Yorkgate Mall together from the York TD Engagement centre at 1PM.

Discover the Amazing World of Bees!

Join us at Downsview Park for an exciting hands-on beekeeping experience hosted by the Toronto Beekeepers Collective!

Learn about the important role bees play in our environment, how honey is made, and what it takes to care for a hive.

What You'll Experience:

•  Learn the basics of beekeeping and honey production

•  Discover why pollinators are important to our ecosystem

•  Explore how honey goes from the hive to your table

•  Gain knowledge about bees, nature, and sustainability

•  Take home your own honey to enjoy!

FREE Workshop
All participants receive honey to take home!
No experience needed—everyone is welcome!

📍 Location: Downsview Park

Presented by the Toronto Beekeepers Collective
Hosted by Back 2 Basickz Youth Support Services

Youth Reset Program 

Feeling Like You Need a Fresh Start? 

If you are involved in the justice system, facing suspension or expulsion from school, currently out of school or 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. Through workshops, resources and professionals to help guide you through the process, we provide the tools and pathways to help youth thrive.

Connect with us today!

Back 2 Basickz Intergenerational Seniors Program

Come be part of a warm, welcoming program where generations come together! Our Intergenerational Seniors Program offers music, interactive activities, and mental, emotional, and spiritual workshops. These youth-led activities create 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

Join Our Community by volunteering with us!

Are you looking to earn community service hours or simply want to give back to your community? We’d love to have you on our team!

At Back 2 Basickz, volunteers play a vital role in everything we do from outreach and community events to supporting workshops and youth programs. 

Whether you have a few hours to spare, a skill to teach or want to get involved more regularly, your time and energy make a real difference.

Join a community that’s passionate about empowering youth, uplifting others, and creating positive change.

 To learn more or sign up, contact us at: 

📧 [email protected]
📞 Call or text:Call or text: 437-254-8817 (Jane and Finch) OR 647-239-2193 (Scarborough)

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]