The Salvation Army Partners with Toronto Police for new Youth Basketball Program
In Toronto’s Jane and Finch community, hope is on the rise as local organizations are coming together to make a positive impact in the lives of young people.
With the tremendous success of the Miracles Youth Soccer program at The Salvation Army Yorkwoods Community Church, Toronto Police Service’s 31 Division realized the difference the program has made for youth in the neighbourhood.
31 Division officers wanted to get involved in the new Yorkwoods Community Church Miracle Youth Basketball Club this spring and fall and beyond. 31 Division is generously covering the $8,000 cost of the program, including renting a gym and providing uniforms for participants in grades 8-12.
The basketball program is also a collaboration between The Salvation Army and We Together, an organization that works to assist low-income residents in the Jane and Finch neighbourhood. Games start March 25 and registration is open until March 19 for anyone in the community by calling 416-631-7222 or emailing Heather.Ortiz@salvationarmy.ca. Registration costs $20 and subsides are available. Oakdale Park Middle School in North York is hosting the program.
“Most of the youth at the church love basketball and we want to reach out to teenagers. Our goal is to get them involved in the community and keep them off screens and out of trouble,” said Salvation Army Yorkwoods Community Church Corp Officer Captain Dae-Gun Kim.
“We are very thankful for the partnership and support of the Toronto Police Service and 31 Division to help us bring opportunities and experiences to youth in this neighbourhood.”
Two student coaches, 31 Division officers and a church member who played the sport in his native Nigeria have volunteered as mission partners to instruct students in basketball. Heather Ortiz, Community Program Coordinator at Yorkwoods, says it is important for kids in the community to have a positive role model in their life.
“Mentoring on the court will help young people get along with each other, use their words to communicate effectively and be good team players,” Heather says.
The collaboration and partnerships built by Yorkwoods Community Church in the Jane and Finch neighbourhood is a beacon of hope for young people in need of positive role models. Local organizations are working together to transform vulnerable lives.
