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Youth Opportunities Unlimited 2010/2011 Annual Report All YOU Can Be
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1
YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED
All YOU Can Be2010-2011 Annual Report
2
Youth Opportunities Unlimited is dedicated to unlocking the potential of youth
by providing client centred services emphasizing skills improvement leading to
increased employability and empowerment, offering a referral service to agencies
serving youth, and developing, participating in and supporting community alliances
to maximize opportunities for youth.
Our Vision
Our Values
Youth Opportunities Unlimited is a caring and active place where all youth are
engaged in learning and creating opportunities to build their future.
Client Centred
We are respectful in all of our client interactions; flexible and inclusive in providing
services that meet clients’ needs.
Community Focused
We are locally driven and gather input from many community sectors on an
ongoing basis.
Fun
We create and support environments that are enjoyable, positive and respectful.
Integrity
We are honest, responsive, clear, and ethical in all of our communications and
interactions.
Quality Driven
We set high standards for success and work hard to surpass them.
2 YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
Our Mission
3
Table of Contents
COVER: Photographed on the roof of The Cornerstone,
332 Richmond St. The three storey downtown landmark
now completing renovation, will be a national prototype in
providing extensive holistic services and supports for local
youth in the areas of affordable housing, health and nutrition,
alternative education, counselling, skills development and
employment opportunities.
Since 1982 Youth Opportunities Unlimited has helped lead
youth in London and Middlesex County toward success.
We believe that investing in youth and strong communities
go hand-in-hand. We know that many youth need guidance
and support to reach their true potential. We work with
our business, community and government partners to
address youths’ most pressing needs. Through Transition,
Career and Enterprise Services we provide youth with the
training, skills development, supports and referrals they
need to develop their potential and lead positive lives.
President’s Report ............................................ 4
Board of Directors ............................................ 5
Executive Director’s Report .............................. 6
Leadership Team .............................................. 7
YOU Team ........................................................ 8
Transition Services ........................................... 9
Career Services .............................................. 10
Enterprise Services ........................................ 11
Next Wave Youth Centre ................................ 12
Springbank Employment and Learning Centre ....................................... 13
Youth Star Award ............................................ 14
Polaris Award ................................................. 15
Steve Cordes Community Star Award .................................. 16
Nick DiSanto Youth Entrepreneurial Award .................................... 17
5th annual Breakfast for YOU Empowering YOUth ....................................... 18
Revenues and Expenditures. .......................... 19
3YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
ANNUAL REPORT PUBLIShED JUNE 2011
4
Dear Friends,
Like so many others, I am inspired by the youth we work with. Their resiliency with
struggles and challenges, their determination to be all they can be, helps us be all
we can be. YOU is dedicated to helping youth in need. This means anticipating
changes in our community and beyond, and continuing to innovate and adapt so
as to provide youth with the necessary programs and services they need to build
positive lives.
During the past year, YOU had much to celebrate. The 5th annual Breakfast for YOU
was a resounding success attended by more than 600 business and community
leaders. The two youth Breakfast speakers touched the hearts and minds of
each and every person present. Our expertise in the field of social enterprise
can be seen in our three businesses (Woodshop, Recycling and Kitchen/Retail
Kiosk) which continue to grow and offer youth valuable learning opportunities,
skills training and jobs. YOU’s unique model of youth engagement can be seen
in Transition, Enterprise and Career Services and in our special events where
youth are at the forefront. The renovation of The Cornerstone nears completion.
This heritage building, in the heart of downtown London, will soon be a dynamic
model of integrated and sustainable programs and services strengthened by
innovative community partnerships. None of YOU’s accomplishments could
be realized without the significant contributions of the talented and committed
staff team.
In many ways, the Board of Directors is the community voice of YOU. Board
members bring skills, expertise and insight which support and strengthen
YOU’s vision. It is my pleasure to welcome the newest members: Michael Lewis
and Lane Trotter. Together we face new challenges with confidence knowing we
are part of a much larger caring community.
Brian hughes, President, Board of Directors.
President’s Report
4 YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
“I am inspired by the youth we work with.”
Photographed on the roof of
The Cornerstone where a
community meeting room
is under construction.
A garden will provide seasonal
herbs and produce for the
street level YOU Made It Café.
5
2010/2011 Board of Directors
FRONT ROW, LEFT TO RIGhT
Kim Fraser, Diana Ferrera, Michael Mitchell,
Phil Masschelein
BACK ROW, LEFT TO RIGhT
Cheryl Miller, Walter LeGrow, Lane Trotter,
Jim Graham, Grant Glady, Brian Hughes,
Dan Grantham, Michael Lewis, Ryan Craig
Photographed at the YOU Made It Woodshop
where youth participants design and build quality
outdoor furniture under the guidance
of a supervisor/mentor.
5YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
66 YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
“Together we have made our community better. Together we have made our community stronger.”
Executive Director’s Report
Photographed on the roof of
The Cornerstone. The redevelopment of our heritage
building is a legacy of investment
in youth. It’s made possible with
the support of our many partners
in community service, business,
education and healthcare.
When a community works together great things happen. Our growing list of partners and community sectors who join us in meeting the employment, training and support needs of our region’s youth is an excellent example. In the past year almost 3,000 young people in London and Middlesex County were the beneficiaries of our combined efforts.
Our work helps youth with transitional needs line up supports and services to build a solid base from which to go forward. In many cases, this includes meals, help with income supports, access to affordable housing, advice and support. Together our community contributed generously through donations, funding and partnerships. This support is crucial. Lives are saved. Young people find the strength and commitment to succeed. For those who attended Breakfast for YOU, the young women who presented the keynote address delivered a powerful message. Together we have made our community better. Together we have made our community stronger.
Many young people come to YOU focused on launching their careers. They face a challenging labour market and need to draw on a variety of supports and services to help get a “foot in the door” and secure the skills development and experiences that will help develop long term, meaningful opportunities. Our community partners responded by working with us to build substantial programs and services.
In partnership with both local school boards, YOU hosts three alternative education centres. All levels of government are invested in offering job search resource centres, employment counselling, skills training and job placement programs. More than 300 businesses hired through YOU in the past year. Hundreds of customers interact with our youth manufacturing and sales teams through YOU Made It. Together, we are creating long term economic prosperity for young people, while providing them with the skills, experience and confidence necessary to succeed.
We are fortunate. We have committed partners, a highly engaged youth-focused staff, volunteers who provide vital supports and a Board of Directors who commit their time, expertise and resources. Together we ensure YOU fulfills its mission. Our heartfelt thanks to all of you!
Respectfully submitted,
Steve Cordes, Executive Director
7 YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
LEFT TO RIGhT
Andrea Decoste, Director, Finance & Administration
Steve Cordes, Executive Director
Melissa Costella, Director, Operations & Project Management
Christine Dirks, Director, Marketing & Communications
Photographed at YOU Made It Recycling.
YOU Made It Recycling annually recycles 310,000 lbs of
cardboard and 225,000 lbs of paper and plastics.
To enquire about our Recycling service
please call 519.808.2729.
Leadership Team
7
8
The diverse YOU Team includes Job Developers, Workshop
Facilitators, Youth Outreach Workers, Employment Counsellors,
industry experts, Administrative, Management and Job Creation
Partnership positions and youth within Enterprise Services.
The YOU team brings varied academic expertise and
professional backgrounds to their work. These include social
service educations, recreation and leisure diplomas, career
practitioner diplomas, graduate degrees and decades of
front-line experience. YOU recruits individuals who have the
skills and attributes to engage youth and help youth build
positive lives.
8 YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
YOU Team
Photographed at YOU Made It Recycling.
The cardboard bales weigh from 900 to
1000 lbs each. YOU Made It Recycling has
served London businesses for more than
15 years. Revenue goes to programs and
services for local youth.
To enquire about our Recycling service
please call 519.808.2729.
9 9YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
In the past year 144 new youth visited the YAC with
12,000 youth visits in total.
Creative collaborations with community partners enabled Transition Services to
continue to serve youth in ways that meet youths’ needs. Dynamic enhancements
to programs and steady growth defined the work of the Transition Services team.
Partnerships included the Regional HIV AIDS Connection, London Middlesex Health
Unit, Intercommunity Health, The University of Western Ontario, TD Canada Trust
Bank, Lawson Research, London Small Business Centre, LUSO Community Centre
and many volunteer groups that provide the Youth Action Centre (YAC) with dinners
as well as many other organizations. In the past year 144 new youth visited
the YAC with a total of 12,000 youth visits. This represents a 22 percent increase
over the previous year.
For 15 years the Youth Insight team has educated our community about youth issues
and youth resiliency. This year more than 3,000 community members accessed Youth
Insight in which youth share their stories with schools, businesses, church groups
and organizations. As a direct result, 75 percent of audience members reported they
want to be more involved in their community and 20 Fanshawe and Western students
chose YOU to complete their placement requirements.
The new Youth Matters Study, in partnership with Lawson Research, addresses issues
of mental health, homelessness, addiction and poverty in the core areas of London.
Information is drawn largely from youth accessing our Youth Action Centre (YAC) and
from referrals by partnering agencies. Our Street Outreach team has been instrumental
in providing information about the study to harder-to-reach youth. The team recently
visited our Next Wave Youth Centre in Strathroy to include rural youth from surrounding
areas of London. To date, 185 youth have participated in the study.
One hundred and seventy-eight youth participated in the Youth Endeavouring for
Success (YES) program, now in its sixth year. Seventy-nine participants moved
on to the next employment related steps of their individual action plan. Forty-two
participants found employment and 50 returned to school as a direct result of the
YES program.
Transition Services
178 youth participated in the
Youth Endeavouring for Success (YES) program.
10
Career Services experienced considerable success with many new learning,
training and employment opportunities to help youth make positive steps towards
their individual career and training goals.
The Career Services team delivered new projects including Individual Skills Enhancement
(ISE), Skills Practice & Relationship Knowledge Building Program (SPARK) and
Work and Learn. Through these programs youth, including young parents, had
the opportunity to explore training, discover next steps in their career path, access
employment placements and work toward the completion of grade 12. Fifty youth
participated with very positive results.
Training opportunities through ISE included: Construction Technologies, Security Guard
Diploma, Property Maintenance and Forklift Training. A total of nine participants took part
in ISE and were eligible for up to $5,000 per participant in these training opportunities.
Participants in the SPARK program all developed confidence in areas regarding life
skills, employability and workplace experience. Three SPARK participants secured
employment in the travel and social service sectors and 79 percent of all those who
completed the project secured employment.
The friendly and knowledgeable Job Search Resource Centre staff team provided
supports to the public including assistance with resume and interview preparation,
referrals to other community supports and agencies as well as information
on training, options for education and summer employment for the student
job seeker. The Centre had approximately 600 visitors per month.
Youth who access Career Services through an Employment Counsellor
receive assistance in career decision making, updated job search skills and
access to employment, education and training. Employment Counsellors
have appointments with approximately 400 youth per month. By year-end,
75 percent of youth participants had an employed outcome. The food
industry, catering, customer service, retail, landscape, graphic design and
automotive were among the sectors in which placements were made and
in which youth secured employment.
10 YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
Career Services
The Centre had approximately
600 visitors per month.
Employment Counsellors have appointments with approximately 400 youth per month.
11
Enterprise Services
The Social Enterprise program has again experienced significant growth
and development. Under the leadership of our new Retail & Sales Supervisor,
sales and community awareness of our Market Quality Preserves,
Gift Baskets, Wood Furniture, Recycling Services, Catering and
Compassion in Fashion Jewelry continue to grow.
The sales team showcased YOU Made It products at events throughout
London including the Farmers’ Market, Cherryhill Mall and One London Place,
while sales at the YOU Made It retail kiosk at Covent Garden Market saw an
80 percent percent increase over the year past.
Woodshop and Recycling operations are now located at one facility which has
increased job training opportunities for our youth. We continue to raise Health and
Safety awareness to not only meet but exceed Ministry of Labour standards.
Plans for the YOU Made It Café are in the final stages of development following an
Operations & Business Plan with a three-year financial forecast. The plan was prepared
by an independent consultant. The Café will be open for breakfast and lunch Monday
through Friday with an emphasis on fresh, local and nutritious food. Based on the plan,
we have hired an Executive Chef & Youth Mentor who is working with his youth team
on menu development, kitchen layout and implementing various aspects of the plan.
While The Cornerstone building undergoes complete renovation, we have utilized the
kitchen at St. Paul’s Cathedral. In so doing we have formed a strong partnership with
their team.
Highlights of outcomes:
• Provided more than 60 youth with relevant job training, skills
development and valuable work experience
• 88 percent of participants completed the program
• 70 percent of participants either gained employment or returned to school
• 10 London retailers now feature Market Quality Preserves and
YOU Made It wood products
• YOU Made It Recycling has increased its customer base to 125 and
continues to process and ship in excess of 900,000 pounds of
recyclables a year
11YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
70% of participants either gained employment or
returned to school.
10 London retailers now feature
Market Quality Preserves and
YOU Made It wood products.
12
Since opening in 2007, Next Wave Youth Centre has provided youth in
Middlesex County with programs and services to help them reach their goals
and guide them on a path to a successful future. Located on Front Street in
downtown Strathroy, the Centre provides youth ages 12 to 29 with career
counselling, café training, volunteer opportunities and education options.
The Break into Business program, in partnership with Community Futures Development Corporation of Middlesex County, provides youth with an opportunity to work in the Next Wave Café, receive certification in Service Excellence and Safe Food Handling, and attend workshops on developing and marketing a business. The program also allows youth to gain insight into self-employment through on-the-job experience. This year The Break into Business program completed its eighth successful session with a total of 48 youth participants throughout the year.
In the Resource Centre staff assist youth with resumes and job searches. Last year, 5,100 youth attended the Centre for activities and assistance with job searches with 171 youth attending career workshops. The Centre also provides a monthly calendar of scheduled workshops for Smart Serve Training, First Aid and CPR Certification and WHMIS. During the school year, 11 members of Next Wave Youth Council meet monthly to discuss challenges facing today’s youth and plan recreational activities for the Centre including foosball tournaments, cooking competitions and talent shows. Council members are from Strathroy District Collegiate Institute and Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School in Strathroy.
In February, Next Wave Youth Centre opened a renovated on-site office and meeting space available for organizations and community groups in Middlesex County to use for small gatherings, interviews or business meetings. Catering is provided by youth participants in the Break into Business program. The project is in partnership with the Homelessness Partnering Strategy through the United Way of Greater Simcoe County.
Next Wave continues to build strong community relationships by collaborating with local partners such as the Strathroy Chamber of Commerce and Strathroy & Area Seniors’ Centre on special events including Strathroy Hometown Turkey Festival, Strathroy & Area Seniors’ Centre Garage Sale & BBQ and Strathroy 150th Birthday Celebration. The Centre is a member of the Strathroy Business Improvement Association, the
Strathroy Chamber of Commerce and the Strathroy District Arts Council.
12 YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
5,100 youth attended the
Centre for activities and
assistance with job searches.
The Break into Business program completed its eighth successful session with a total of 48 youth participants throughout the year.
Next Wave Youth Centre
13
The Springbank Employment and Learning Centre is a multi-use neighbourhood
based community resource which delivers quality services to youth, newcomers,
job seekers, businesses and students residing in Southwest London.
Since opening in 2000 the Centre has developed strong partnerships and become
a true community hub. The Centre is home to an Alternative Learning classroom of
the Thames Valley District School Board. The Centre for Lifelong Learning of the London
District Catholic School Board supports on-site English as a Second Language classes
with software for ESL learning and ESL computer tutorials available in the Resource
Centre. The City of London offers on-site Spectrum programs in the evenings. The
Centre provides free internet, job search tools, employment workshops and counselling
for those seeking full-time, part-time or summer employment. The Centre welcomed
new community partner Spencer Employment Services which provides weekly
Vocational Consultation through the Cascade Program (WSIB).
The Centre exceeded all funding targets by 25 percent. Staff helped 794 youth
and 341 community members find employment or enter into education and
training opportunities and supported 1,315 youth through outreach services.
Ninety-two percent of those seeking employment or wanting to enter college or university
education or training opportunities through the Centre achieved successful results.
In addition, the Centre also supported 11,871 return visitors.
During National Youth Week the Centre hosted the 4th annual
Career Carnival. One hundred and twenty secondary school
students participated in the event, enjoying games and activities
pertaining to interview skills, apprenticeships, volunteer opportunities
and summer jobs. Partners for this popular event included
ATN Access Inc., the Boys & Girls Club of London, Hutton House,
Pillar Volunteer Services and London Public Library.
13YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
Springbank Employment and Learning Centre
This past year the Centre exceeded all funding targets by
25 percent.
The Centre also supported
11,871 return visitors.
14
Youth Star Award
Joy CameronIn her darkest days, Joy Cameron was, she says, “absolutely miserable to be with”. The darkest days were marked by clinical depression and self-harm to numb the pain of feeling alone within a family marked by turmoil, tension and hurt. It began when Joy was in grade eight. At 17 she left home. Two years later she tried to “tackle” her depression by going off medication and found herself deeper in depression with thoughts of suicide. Soon Joy was hospitalized. It was a turning point. She came to accept that with the medication she could find the stability she needed to live the life she wanted.
That life meant reconnecting with her “biggest obstacle”, her family. It meant being open to forgive and open to receive forgiveness. And it meant seeking support from others. “I began to appreciate how precious help can be.” She credits the Youth Action Centre, the Mental Health Crisis Line, Daya Counselling and her close friends at Gateway Church who are, she says, like family. “They’re the ones I turn to when things are rough, whether to vent and be encouraged, or to simply hang out with and have fun. I cannot imagine my life without these people.”
It took Joy seven years to complete high school. She persevered because despite the turmoil she knew that education is key to a better life. Today Joy is in the second year of the Child and Youth Worker program at Fanshawe College, with a particular interest in homelessness and women’s issues. She is a junior high leader at Gateway Church and a member of the Youth Insight Team at the Youth Action Centre. As a Team member Joy has done dozens of public ‘speaks’ about the resiliency of youth and the continuing need for services so youth can overcome obstacles and realize their potential. Part of her work as a Youth Insight Team member is participating in team building exercises, workshops and connecting with people from all walks of life – all of which gives her great happiness. “I’ve learned how to manage my depression” says Joy with a smile, “and that makes a world of difference.”
The Youth Star Award recognizes a youth in London and Middlesex who
has overcome significant barriers and who has demonstrated perseverance,
commitment and responsibility.
PREViOus RECiPiEnts
Mark LeBlanc - 2010 Daniel Denomy - 2009
Allison Parke-Rye - 2008Joe Maatman - 2007Dylan Reilly - 2006
Amanda Darrah - 2005Siobhan McCarty - 2004
Joe Richards - 2003Genevieve Simms - 2002
Youth Star Award
“I began to appreciate how precious help can be.”
14 YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
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Polaris Award
15YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
“They challenge me to not
assume anything and to never
lose my sense of humour.”
Patricia O’ConnorSeveral times a week Public Health Nurse Patricia O’Connor speaks with youth at the Next Wave Youth Centre about drug and alcohol use, safe sex, hygiene, mental health, relationships, healthy living and other topics. She listens, offers friendly guidance and advice, encourages participation in new programs and community activities, nurtures potential, seeks collaborative solutions and always puts youth first. She does all this with a positive attitude and calm demeanour.
Youth trust, respect and like Patricia. They call her by her first name. Patricia says youth are great teachers. “They’re constantly stretching me. They teach me how to really listen, to be flexible and open to new ways of being and thinking. They challenge me to not assume anything and to never lose my sense of humour.”
Since starting work with Next Wave little more than two years ago Patricia has helped establish a New Parents Group which includes young dads, for whom there are “few community supports.” She is an original member and active participant of the new Youth Providers Committee for Middlesex County. She regularly analyzes youth needs in the community and seeks out resources to ensure they are met and actively seeks new networking opportunities of benefit to youth. Patricia hopes to be part of Next Wave for many years to come. “It provides a safe and supportive environment where youth can drop in, learn, play, work and have opportunities to give back to the community.”
Youth have a lot to deal with, says Patricia. She cites struggles with learning, peer pressure and peer rejection, bullying, family issues, prejudice against LGBT youth, stigma around teen parents and the need for basics - food, clothing and affordable housing. “I’m privileged to see how resilient youth are given the life experiences some have had.” Often, says Patricia, the little things can be especially heartwarming. “When you see a youth speak up about a problem or issue because they’ve gained empowerment after much struggling, when you see them find their voice - that is a special moment.”
The Polaris Award recognizes an individual, organization or private company
that has been a guiding light to youth through strong leadership and personal
commitment in the area of youth services in London and Middlesex County.
PREViOus RECiPiEnts
Chris Bowden - 2010
Cara Finn - 2009
Andrée Cazabon - 2008
Michael’s on the Thames - 2007
West London Alliance Church - 2006
Covent Garden Market - 2005
LhSC’s Pepp Program - 2004
London Innercity Faith Team - 2003
Ormah Gibson - 2002
16
Steve Cordes Community Star Award
This award was created by the Board of Directors in 2008 to recognize
exceptional, long-term commitment to youth in London and area.
“It instills in youth of both the
Ministry Team and the Centre
the joy of giving.”
St. Patrick’s ParishEach year before Christmas, members of the congregation of St. Patrick’s Parish fill several cars with new winter clothing, hand-knit goods, household items and other holiday gifts. The gifts are taken to the Youth Action Centre where later they are given to the many youth who visit the Centre. The giving began 10 years ago when Fr. Bob Wilson remarked to the Parish’s Youth Ministry Team that while families and younger children are cared for by community agencies during the holiday season, youth are often overlooked. Two members of the Team were then in the Child and Youth Worker program at Fanshawe College and were doing placement at the Youth Action Centre. They knew the need was great and suggested the Parish focus their giving on the youth who rely on the Centre for comfort, support and resources.
Lynn Di Pinto has worked with the Youth Ministry Team for more than 30 years. The act of giving is a “Parish event” says Lynn. It’s known as the Giving Tree/Giving Box. “Each November, a tree and boxes are placed at the entrance to the church. Stars with the names of different gift items are placed on the tree. Parishioners who wish to be involved take a star and purchase the gift. It’s something we want to do” says Lynn.
Towards Christmas the Parish invites staff from the Centre to a Sunday ceremony in which Parish representatives speak to the congregation of why the Centre is important. The congregation’s commitment serves an additional purpose, says Lynn. “It instills in youth of both the Ministry Team and the Centre the joy of giving.” After the service, parishioners deliver the gifts to the Centre. Over the years, the warm relationship between the St. Patrick’s Parish and the Youth Action Centre has grown. Youth speakers from the Centre meet with the Team to talk about life on the streets, teen pregnancy and other issues. “I am sure this awareness has had a positive influence on our young people”, says Lynn. The relationship continues to grow. Last year during severe and extensive snow storms, and with many members affected by job loss and financial difficulties, the Parish donated more generously than ever.
PREViOus RECiPiEnts
Joyce Bennett - 2010 Cheryl Miller - 2009
16 YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
17
Tracy LittleAs chef and burgeoning entrepreneur, Tracy Little views her years of living on the street as formative. She learned how to evaluate risk, spot opportunities and not give up. “It’s always the hard work that gets you to the point that you can make the impossible happen”, says Tracy. During those early years, when she didn’t know where she would sleep, and what - if anything - she would eat, the idea of a better life kept her going. “I think of myself as an opportunist in the most positive sense of the word. There is so much out there. All we have to do is keep it in mind and work hard to get it, whatever it may be.”
Today, Tracy is a Red Seal certified chef working as Head Chef at Milton Lake Lodge in Saskatchewan with previous positions as Pastry Chef at Garlic’s of London and Braise Food and Wine. She is quick to credit those who helped her make the transition. One was her late uncle Shawn. “He was my friend and mentor. He taught me about good food and how it’s a tool to bring people together.” Another was the staff at the Youth Action Centre who hired Tracy to be part of a youth team to create an achingly honest book on youth homelessness called Flying A Sign. Meals shared around the big table at the Centre nurtured her growing desire to be a chef. She found work helping in kitchens and soon applied to the Cook Apprenticeship Program at Fanshawe College. During her first year at college, she used money saved from work to begin a freelance catering business. Her first jobs were private dinners for friends’ parents or for parents’ friends. Weddings, baby showers and birthday parties followed. Small dinner parties are a favourite.
Tracy says in five years she will either be in New York pursuing her career or close to London where she has purchased her first home. In the meantime, Tracy volunteers with Growing Chefs which gets kids excited about good, healthy food and where chef volunteers are paired with elementary school classrooms to give students hands-on experience growing and cooking their own food. Wherever she is Tracy will undoubtedly exhibit the creativity, planning and patience of a chef with the independent, determined spirit of the entrepreneur.
Nick DiSanto Youth Entrepreneurial AwardThis award recognizes the entrepreneurial talents of youth at
Youth Opportunities Unlimited. The Board of Directors created the award in 2008
in memory of a YOU friend who, after a short career working for others, opened his
own business and became a successful entrepreneur.
“It’s always the hard work
that gets you to the point
that you can make the
impossible happen”.
PREViOus RECiPiEnts
Dana Brushette - 2010 Duane Lauzon - 2009
17YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
1818 YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
“I am impressed by the breadth and variety of community connections that Youth Opportunities Unlimited has fostered. The YOU Breakfast was supported by people from so many facets of the wider community, and there was such a positive spirit in the room, I couldn’t help but feel enthusiastic about the organization’s compassionate and innovative programs.”
Kevin Dixon Dean, St. Paul’s Cathedral
“YOU has continuously demonstrated, time and again, that they are a compassionate, caring service provider. Listening to young adults speak so passionately about how YOU changed their lives left me emotionally touched. Because of YOU these individuals have a new outlook on life.”
Denise Brown Corporate Sales Manager, Aboutown Transportation Limited
“The YOU breakfast is a great way to start a cold winter day. Heartwarming stories from clients who have used the many services YOU has to offer to get them back on their feet. Seeing the room full of people who have made a positive impact on our city, sends a wonderful message to our community. Together we can make a big difference.”
Chris BowdenVolunteer, Youth Action Centre
“The YOU Breakfast was an eye-opening and touching experience that I cherish. We were let into the worlds of two incredible YOU survivors whose recounting of their journeys from struggle to success deeply inspired everyone in attendance. It was a fantastic and uplifting event.”
trina Poulopoulos Student, Ivey School of Business
5th annual Breakfast for YOU Empowering YOUthThursday, February 3, 2011 • London Convention Centre
“To empower our youth is to empower our community.”
Rick and Megan Gleed at DTZ Barnicke, Presenting Sponsor
Breakfast for YOU is a key event not only in the YOU calendar but in the community calendar as well. It is a heartwarming gathering at which YOU friends, and those who are just learning about the organization, gain insight into the challenges, issues and resiliency of youth. Keynote speakers Tracy Little and Chantel Grayston-Clairmont spoke with candor about their journeys, their hopes and how with the help of a caring community they were able to take the steps necessary to build positive lives. As they shared their stories with more than 600 guests at the London Convention Centre the quiet was audible. As each ended her story, guests burst to their feet in a spontaneous standing ovation. Tracy and Chantel’s stories can be viewed at: www.youtube.com search “Youth Opportunities Unlimited - Hear my Story”
Thank you to all who attended the 5th annual Breakfast for YOU, who made donations to the online auction and to additional sponsors: Libro Financial Group, Gordons Gold Jewellers, RBC, Davis Martindale Accountants and Cheryl Miller. Special thanks to Mayor Fontana and Chief of Police Brad Duncan for their fun, engaging live auction.
The 6th annual Breakfast for YOU Empowering YOUth takes place Thursday, February 2, 2012 at the London Convention Centre.
19
Revenues and Expenditures
19YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED 2010-2011 All YOU Can Be
Amortization of Deferred Contributions Relating to Capital Assets
Donations & Fundraising
United Way of London & Middlesex
Earned Revenue
Municipal
Provincial
Federal
Other Operating Expenses
Professional Fees
Program Delivery
Amortization
Ontario Works Disbursements
Participant Wages & Stipends
Salaries & Benefits
Total Revenues
$5,713,284Revenues
Expenditures
20
All Funder logos
Youth Opportunities Unlimited proudly acknowledges our funders and major donors
www.you.on.ca
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