OPP Youth Foundation Recognizes Outstanding Communications Support

The OPP Youth Foundation is proud to recognize two exceptional supporters whose expertise and dedication have played a significant role in advancing our mission and strengthening our connection with communities across Ontario. At a recent presentation, OPP Youth Foundation Challenge Coins were awarded to Terri McCormack and Alysha Van der Valk in appreciation of their tremendous contributions through their corporate and strategic communications expertise. Terri and Alysha have been invaluable partners in helping the Foundation communicate its impact, promote key initiatives, and support the success of our events. Their professionalism, creativity, and commitment have helped amplify the Foundation’s message and ensure that the stories of the youth we serve reach a wider audience. As a token of our gratitude, OPP Youth Foundation Vice Chair Dave Osborne presented a Challenge Coin to Terri McCormack, while OPP Youth Foundation Director Frank Ryder presented a Challenge Coin to Alysha Van der Valk. Their ongoing support behind the scenes has been instrumental in the success of many Foundation activities, and we are grateful for the time, expertise, and enthusiasm they continue to share with our organization. On behalf of the Board of Directors, volunteers, and the youth and families we support, thank you, Terri and Alysha, for your outstanding commitment to the OPP Youth Foundation. Your dedication helps us create meaningful opportunities and positive experiences for young people across Ontario.

A HUGE Thank you to Guys Who Care North Simcoe

Members from #SGBOPP and the OPP Youth Foundation were grateful to accept this amazing donation from the Guys Who Care North Simcoe to support youth in need in our community! Thank you so much to each member of this group and we can’t wait to report back to you in the Fall!

A powerful start to the Ride to Remember!

On Day 1, the journey began at the Ontario Police College in Aylmer, Ontario, with riders en route to Ottawa for the National Police Memorial. Along the way, the OPP Youth Foundation and OPPA Credit Union proudly gifted brand-new bikes and helmets to three deserving youth identified by community officers from the OPP, Hamilton Police, and Halton Police. Congratulations to Sammy (12), Marcello (7), and Brooke (7) on their new rides!Your smiles remind us what community and support are all about. #RideToRemember #OPPYouthFoundation #CommunityFirst #NationalPoliceMemorial #OPPACreditUnion  

Another grade VIII student in a low-income family

Another grade VIII student in a low-income family will participate in a leadership program through his school board, enhancing his confidence, social skills and positive interactions with others, as the YDF has paid the fee for the leadership program.

A 12-year-old lives with her mother and a sibling.

A 12-year-old lives with her mother and a sibling. The mother has a low-income seasonal job. The father is inconsistent with financial support. The youth exhibits mental health / behavioural issues and would benefit from courses provided by the Red Cross, including Home Alone and Babysitting, where she will learn important life skills. The Youth Development Fund has paid for the courses.

A grade 8 student would like to go on her graduation trip next spring.

A grade 8 student would like to go on her graduation trip next spring. She and her family immigrated to Canada three years ago. Her family experienced violence and trauma; due to this and to other criminal activity, the father was deported. Her single parent mother is now raising three children on her own. This youth is an amazing, resilient and kind person – always helping others. Through funds from the YDF, she will join her classmates on their graduation trip.

A 13-year-old skilled baseball player may not be able to continue next season

A 13-year-old skilled baseball player may not be able to continue next season. The family has custody and family law related expenses and is in temporary housing. An OPP officer knows the youth and observes that the youth has lost part of his confidence and outgoing personality. With funds from the YDF, this youth can now participate in off-season training and will continue on the rep ball team.

A 10-year-old resides with grandparents who are on a fixed income

A 10-year-old resides with grandparents who are on a fixed income. One parent is not involved; the other works out of town in a low-income job. This youth has ADHD and skating has been suggested as a recreational activity, but not possible without funds from the Youth Development Fund.