Overview of the Volunteer Program
Thank you to Jumpstart for funding our program!
When I first started with Beat the Streets I was 18 years old and Coach Neal and Jessica have become my non-profit parents over the years (I could write a spin-off of the book Rich Dad, Poor Dad). They had helped me break through so many self-limiting beliefs and were much more than just our bosses. When they offered me a position to work with them from September 2022 to June 2023 I was ecstatic and overwhelmed with gratitude. They entrusted me to build a volunteer program for Beat the Streets. I was really nervous and I wanted to do a good job because this program was a catalyst in my life, I hope I can pay it forward and create that same experience for both our volunteers and the youth that we work with. Since our time in September, we have had around 15 volunteers who have completed more than 2000 hours with us, produced 7 pilot programs and served over 230 youth with our volunteers. We create meaningful work experiences for our volunteers where they are able to create their own programs that they are passionate about and as they gain confidence and skills in building their own programs they are also working with the youth in our community. For me, it is important that our volunteers start to practice what they preach and that we are all working together to improve. We currently work to collaborate with local universities and colleges such as Guelph-Humber and we hope to continue to expand the program. It has been an amazing opportunity to work with high-school co-op students, our field-placement students and our volunteers who are investing their own personal time into Beat the Streets. I am beyond grateful for all the time they have invested in the programs and Beat the Streets.
About Beat the Streets:
At Beat the Streets, our mission is to advance the education of low-income children and youth in the Greater Toronto Area through fun and unique sports, life skills, and employment-based development programs. Since 2015, we have served over 28,000 young individuals through our Wrestle 4 Fun, Level Up, You Grow Girl, Work It (Summer Jobs), and Volunteer programs, providing them opportunities to develop their physical, mental, and social well-being. We believe in empowering the next generation by breaking down barriers and creating pathways to success.
Join us in our mission to impact youth:
Join us in making a difference by supporting our cause and learning more about how you can contribute to the education and growth of children and youth in need. Together, we can shape a brighter future for all.
