The Kemptville Youth Centre (KYC) has launched a new fundraising campaign to celebrate their 25th anniversary.
Opened in 1994, KYC has become a staple in the North Grenville community as a safe space for youth to hang out. They offer many programs for youth from 12-18, including their popular After School Drop-in which includes a healthy snack, Homework Help, Wii and Wii U gaming, Games Night, Sports Night and Cook Night. KYC services 300-450 youth per year and KYC Operation Manager Barb Tobin says they saw 300 teens come through their door in October 2019 alone.
Barb says that while KYC has been well supported by the community over the years, they are looking for a little extra boost. To that end, they are looking to attract 100 friends who are willing to donate $25 to support their programming. Barb says they are not looking to businesses this time, although they would appreciate their help in spreading the word. They understand that money can be tight at this time of year, with many other local charities vying for donations. “[This is why] we are doing a soft sell for a small amount of money from each individual,” Barb said during a presentation to North Grenville Council last week. “We certainly would be happy for more than 100 friends, because we believe you are out there.”
Mayor Nancy Peckford has thrown her support behind the new KYC campaign saying that she will be the first of her council colleagues to donate. “I look forward to being a part of your future success,” she said.
There are many ways to donate. KYC accepts cash, cheque or e-transfer and also has an account set up on the Canada Helps website, where donators can have access to an instant tax receipt. Barb invites anyone who wants more information or has questions about KYC to stop by the Centre at 5 Oxford Street West in Kemptville, which is open weekdays after 2 pm. “The kids would love to have you in,” she says.
