YOU Annual Report 2010 - 2011

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YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED

All YOU Can Be2010-2011 Annual Report

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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

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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

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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


“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.

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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.



“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


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

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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.


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.

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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.


Career Services

The Centre had approximately

600 visitors per month.

Employment Counsellors have appointments with approximately 400 youth per month.

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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


70% of participants either gained employment or

returned to school.

10 London retailers now feature

Market Quality Preserves and

YOU Made It wood products.

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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.


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

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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.


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.

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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.”


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Polaris Award


“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

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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


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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



“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.

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Revenues and Expenditures


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

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All Funder logos

Youth Opportunities Unlimited proudly acknowledges our funders and major donors

www.you.on.ca

Documents

YOU Annual Report 2010 - 2011