Dear Back 2 Basickz Family,

As we welcome the start of 2026, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our youth, families, staff, partners, and community supporters who continue to walk alongside us. A new year brings fresh opportunities for growth, reflection, and renewed commitment to the young people and communities we serve.

We enter this year encouraged by the resilience, leadership, and creativity shown by our youth, and inspired by the collective effort that makes Back 2 Basickz a place of belonging and possibility. Building on the foundation laid in the past year, we look forward to strengthening programs, expanding partnerships, and creating even more pathways for healing, empowerment, and success.

As we move into the months ahead, we remain grounded in our mission and excited about what’s to come. Thank you for being part of the Back 2 Basickz family and for continuing to support our work. We look forward to growing, learning, and moving forward together in 2026.

With gratitude,

Amanda Coombs

Executive Director

Back 2 basickz

Back 2 Basickz was awarded $18,300 as a 2025 Artist in the Library grant recipient to deliver Improv at the Library, a free, drop-in improvisational theatre program designed to engage local youth in creative, in-person connection. 

Facilitated by professional actors and ACTRA members, the program invites youth to step away from social media and participate in collaborative play while exploring topics that matter to them, including mental health, stigma, racism, gun violence, family life, dating, and pop culture. Through co-creation and live performance, participants build confidence, communication skills, and emotional well-being.

Scarborough Youth 

Big Shout-Out to

 Youth of the Month Shout-Out: Priscal 🌟

A big shout-out to Priscal, our Youth of the Month, for her dedication, growth, and leadership. Priscal has been putting in consistent effort in school while actively working on her personal development and starting her own hair business. She recently facilitated a hair workshop at the centre, sharing her skills with other youth, and has taken the initiative to reach out to professional hairstylists in the community for guidance and mentorship.

Through her involvement with Back 2 Basickz, Priscal continues to make full use of the programs, workshops, and tools available to elevate herself, pursue her goals, and positively impact those around her.

We are proud of her commitment, ambition, and the example she sets for others.

Finch Youth Shout Out 

Our Student of the Month recognition goes to Tyana! Since joining Back 2 Basickz, Tyana has consistently demonstrated true leadership, embodying trustworthiness, integrity, and empathy in all that she does. She is deeply respected by both staff and families and is trusted by many parents in the community. On any given day, you can find Tyana looking out for the younger children in the program, offering guidance, care, and a watchful eye.

Tyana, your leadership and compassion do not go unnoticed. Your future is bright—keep letting your light shine!

Toronto Police Career Pathways is a free workshop designed for youth who are interested in learning about careers in policing and community safety. Participants will explore the step-by-step pathway to becoming a police officer, learn about uniformed, specialized, and civilian roles within the Toronto Police Service, and have the opportunity to ask questions and hear real-world insights from police professionals. 

The workshop will take place on Tuesday, January 6th from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM. Registration is required—please scan the QR code to register.

Functional Mind & Body (FMB) is a free, youth-focused program that combines non-contact boxing and brain training to support physical fitness, mental focus, and confidence. Participants will engage in full-body workouts while improving coordination, balance, endurance, and brain processing speed through structured boxing-based exercises. 

Sessions take place every Wednesday from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM and are designed to support both physical and mental well-being in a safe, supportive environment. Registration is required—please scan the QR code to register.

Good Financial Habits is a free, youth-focused workshop designed to help participants build confidence in managing their money and planning for the future. Facilitated by Anthony Bucknor, this session will cover budgeting, saving, smart spending, banking basics, and how to avoid common money mistakes while building healthy financial habits that support long-term goals and independence. 

The workshop will take place on Thursday, January 8th from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Registration is required—please scan the QR code to register.

Movie Nights!

Our movie nights have been a hit and we’re excited to welcome you back to watch some classics and new favorites. The movie will start at 5pm, join us for some popcorn and refreshments at our centre. You’re welcome to bring a friend - see you there! 

Board Games & Coco is a free, youth-focused social event designed to bring young people together for a fun and relaxed evening of games, conversation, and community. Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of classic and modern board games while connecting with peers in a warm, welcoming environment.

The session encourages positive social interaction, teamwork, and friendly competition, while offering a comfortable space for youth to unwind, build relationships, and strengthen communication skills — all over a cup of hot cocoa and light snacks.

The event will take place onTuesday, January 13th from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Registration is required — please scan the QR code on the flyer to register.

How to Develop Emotional Intelligence is a free, youth-focused workshop designed to help participants better understand and manage their emotions while building strong relationships and communication skills. Facilitated by Sandra Garman Sung, the session will explore key areas such as self-awareness, self-regulation, and social skills, supporting personal growth and emotional well-being. 

The workshop will take place on Monday, January 19th from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Registration is required—please scan the QR code to register.

Social Justice Explained is a free, youth-focused workshop designed to help participants better understand fairness, equity, and their role in creating positive change.

Facilitated by Esther Adinkrah, the session will explore the difference between equality and equity, how systems, identity, and power can shape opportunities and lived experiences, and how youth can develop skills to speak up and advocate in their communities. The workshop will take place on Tuesday, January 20th from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Registration is required—please scan the QR code to register.

Performance Workshop

Facilitated by Joan, this workshop will build your skills in the performing arts. With a spotlight on movement and acting, develop your confidence and stage presence.

If you are an aspiring performer, this workshop is for you so sign up today.

The workshop will take place on Thursday, January 15th from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM. Registration is required—please scan the QR code to register.

🏀 Basketball Runs

Do you love basketball and staying active? Come join us for community basketball runs at House of Legends, located at 14 Scotswood Rd. It’s a great way to stay fit, improve your skills, and connect with others who enjoy the sport. 

Join us from 5 pm to 7 pm. Registration is required—please scan the QR code to register.

Good Sleep for Good Mental Health is a free, youth-focused workshop designed to help participants understand the important connection between sleep, energy, and mental well-being. Facilitated by Jayzelle Rae Ponce, this session will explore how sleep affects mood, focus, and emotional regulation, while sharing healthy sleep routines and habits that support better rest, balance, and overall mental health. 

The workshop will take place on Monday, January 26th from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Registration is required—please scan the QR code to register.

Cultural Safety & Humility is a free, youth-focused workshop designed to support respectful understanding and inclusion across diverse cultures and lived experiences. Facilitated by Karuna Basnet, participants will explore cultural awareness and self-reflection, learn how to communicate respectfully across differences, and understand how to help create safer, more inclusive spaces in schools and communities. 

The workshop will take place on Tuesday, January 27th from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Registration is required—please scan the QR code to register.

Game On!

Do you like Esport games? Tell a friend and bring a friend to our Gaming Day at the Peasants Lair Cyber Cafe. Come through from 5pm-6:30pm and get your game on.

 Registration is required—please scan the QR code to register.

Quality of Life: Goal Setting & Personal Growth is a free, youth-focused workshop designed to help participants clarify their goals and build a stronger path toward personal success and well-being. Facilitated by Mariah Nigili, this session will guide youth through setting realistic goals, identifying helpful resources, building consistent habits, and reflecting on progress to support long-term growth and quality of life. 

The workshop will take place on Monday, January 26th from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Registration is required—please scan the QR code to register.

Staged Impact Program

Taking place every Friday from January to August 

An arts program featuring youth-led performances, written and directed by youth and acted out by their peers. This program is bringing real stories, real issues, and real impact to the stage. Guided by professional artists and mental health experts, these performances highlight the creativity, resilience, and voices of youth in the Jane and Finch community. 

Free to join and attend; snacks, refreshments and meals as well as transportation provided. This program is open to all youth in the Jane and Finch community. 

Come and bring your stories to life in a safe, creative space with other youth from the community.

Participants will receive a certificate and cash honorarium at the end of the program. 

Youth LinkUP 

Pull up & LINKUP.

Chill out, and vibe with us! This is your space to socialize, game, relax, and just be yourself– no pressure, no judgment.

Come hang with other youth in a safe, welcoming space where you can unwind and have fun.
Meals and snacks are provided for free, so come through and bring a friend! 🎮✨

You must check the dates the program is running and register to attend!

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!

Kids & Youth Non-Contact Boxing & Brain Training
Presented by Back 2 Basickz Youth Support Services in partnership with Functional Mind & Body (FMB)

Join us every Tuesday for an exciting and empowering workshop that combines the physical benefits of boxing with brain-boosting exercises!

This non-contact program is designed to help youth build strength, coordination, and focus while sharpening cognitive skills through fun, structured boxing drills.

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)

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]