Back2Basickz - December Newsletter 2024

DECEMBER NEWSLETTER

Amanda Coombs, Executive Director, Back2Basickz Youth Support Services

Seasons Greetings, 

As we wrap up another incredible year at Back 2 Basickz, we want to take a moment to reflect on all that we have accomplished together in 2024. It has been a year of growth, resilience, and positive impact, and we could not have done it without the support of our community, youth, partners, donors and dedicated team.

We are excited to continue building on this momentum. We have plans to introduce additional programs, expand our partnerships, and enhance our current offerings. Our focus will remain on creating a nurturing environment where youth feel seen, supported, and inspired to pursue their dreams.

We invite you to stay connected with us through this journey. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to our community, your involvement keeps us going. Together, we can make 2025 another successful year for Back 2 Basickz and the amazing youth we serve.

Thank you for being a part of our story. Wishing you all a joyful holiday season and a bright start to the New Year!

Warmly,
Amanda Coombs

Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Milestones

This year, we were able to extend our services to reach even more youth in the Jane and Finch area, providing a safe space for support, learning, and empowerment. Our Scarborough location also made strides in expanding meal programs, ensuring that our students have access to nutritious meals that support their well-being and focus. We were also able to expand our workshops with partnering organizations and people from around Ontario.

Thanks to generous donations and grants, we have been able to offer new programs and workshops, focusing on areas like mental health, career readiness, and creative expression. These programs have equipped our youth with the tools and confidence to take on new challenges and explore their potential. We are proud of each and every participant for their dedication and growth. 

We would love to take a moment to recognize the following foundations for their financial donations:

Serviceberry, Kevin Burke Family Foundation, & Andrew and Lynn Torres Foundation

We would also like to acknowledge and thank thes local businesses and organizations that have provided us with support:

No Frills Agincourt, Metro Kennedy Commons, Aqua Ice Inc., & Play It Again Sports

Our Monthly Calendar

December

*****We will be closed from the 23rd and reopen on the January 6th 2025

Monthly highlights

This holiday season, spread cheer by supporting Back 2 Basickz—your gift can create brighter futures for our youth!

A donation of any size can make a difference! We are also always looking for Volunteers - reach out to us if you are looking to make a meaningful impact and looking for ways to give back.

We are thrilled to celebrate our very own Stachen Lett-Frederick who has been awarded with the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Award for Social Change - Regional impact!

This prestigious recognition highlights her dedication, resilience, and leadership in driving change and empowering our community. Stachen’s commitment to uplifting youth and making a difference inspires us every day, and we are beyond proud to see her work recognized on a national level. The gala was held at  Ritz Carlton Downtown on Nov 8th with the awards presented by RBC Canadian entrepreneur awards. It was also nice to celebrate alongside our BYOU partners, Helping Hands and CTO Child and Youth Services

Catch us out on the ice for the 2024-2025 winter season!  

We have been busy starting a Skate library; which has only been possible through the outpouring of donations from the local and extended community and businesses in the GTA and surrounding areas like Richmond Hill, Vaughan and Pickering.

This fall we started a skating fundraiser and skate drive for the youth of Back2Basickz, with the mission of securing skates of all sizes that our youth will be able to use at no cost for skating for our recreational skate nights.

These skates will also be but adobe made available anytime youth in the program want to skate.

If you have any skates  that you can donate, please reach out to us at [email protected] and we will arrange pick-up or alternatively, you can drop them off to our 880 Ellesmere location.

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!

Important Announcement: Postponed Red Cross Baby Sitter Certification Course

The Red Cross Baby-sitter  certification course has been regrettably postponed until January 2025. 

You can still register for the course using the QR on the flyer, and get up-to-date information about the new rescheduled training dates.

Upcoming programs for December!

December 13th, 2024 @ 4:00 p.m.

Join us the second Friday of every month for an evening filled with fun, laughter, and friendly competition.

Whether you're a board game enthusiast or just looking to unwind and connect with others, there's something for everyone.

Register now and bring your A-game!

Don't miss the best night of the month! Movie Night on the first Friday of the month. 

Join us for fresh popped buttery popcorn, a cozy spot and great company. Whether you’re in the mood for popcorn, games, or just some good vibes, this is the perfect way to kick back and unwind.

So grab your friends and come on down to Back 2 Basickz join us for a night of pure fun, laughter, this you don’t want to miss.

This month’s feature film is going to bring the holiday vibes  Film: How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

December 6th, 2024 @ 5:00 p.m.

December 20th, 2024 @ 5:00 p.m.

Friday, December 20th, we’re kicking off Karaoke Night with reggae/dancehall theme.

Join us and show off your style for a chance to win an amazing prize.

It will be a night full of fun, laughter, and unforgettable performances. Let’s make this a night to remember!

Workshops

December 4th, 2024 @ 5:00 p.m.

December 4th & 18th, 2024

December 11th, 2024 @ 4:00 p.m.

December 17th, 2024 @ 5:00 p.m.

December 19th, 2024 @ 4:00 p.m.

 Drop - in Nights: Dec 2nd, 3rd , 9th and 16th 

Come to unwind, relax and chill! Hang out with friends, lounge in the meditation room, read a book, play video games, table tennis or just listen to music. Whatever you need, we got you!

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

Scarborough

880 Ellesmere Rd, Unit 304, Scarborough, ON M1P 2L8

Phone: 1-647-514-3124

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