Emergency Shelter Repair Project Complete For YES Shelter

The YES Shelter for Youth and Families has completed its major repairs to its Brock Street emergency shelter, revealed to the public on Tuesday morning.

Members of YES Shelter and their donors celebrating the repair completion that totalled $266,394 in repairs. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The project was funded by community support, including significant funding from the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough.

The building features reinforced structural elements, institutional-grade plumbing and fixtures, exterior aesthetic renewal and the installation of new generator.

This critical work ensures the long-term safety, function and dignity of the shelter, which serves youth and families experiencing homelessness across Peterborough City and County, according to Aimeé Le Lagadec, YES executive director.

“This project was a major undertaking,” she said. “Back in 2021, we asked the community to help us raise $200,000 to cover the cost of necessary repairs to our Emergency Shelter building. Thanks to the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough and many generous donors, we have raised just over $265,000 allowing us to cover the most necessary work and some new repair needs as they came up. As a community, we safeguarded this essential space for the future offering shelter and support with dignity.”

“This wasn’t just about fixing a building,” said Jennifer DeBues, Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough executive director. “It was about protecting the only emergency shelter for youth and families in Peterborough and ensuring it remains a safe, supportive place for those who need it most.”

The following were the project costs equalling $266,394:

• Fire safety upgrades - $26,807

• Shelter washroom renovation - $71,041

• Increase video monitoring of shelter exterior - $15,300

• Piping rerouting work in the front of shelter - $16,500

• Carriage House Roof Replacement - $17,415

• Shelter basement floor repair - $2,402

• Shelter generator install - $55,000

• Side fencing replaement - $8,253

• PurePave installation and landscape repair - $22,240

• Structural work and winterization of upper porch - $23,960

• Exterior prep and painting - $7,476

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Six Local Youth Startups Announced For Community Futures Peterborough's Inaugural Summer Company Program

Community Futures Peterborough’s (CFP) Business Advisory Centre (BAC) named six local youth startups for its inaugural Summer Company Program, announced on Wednesday.

In Ontario, young people under the age of 30 now make up nearly 12 percent of all self-employed individuals according to CFP. Photo courtesy of CFP.

This summer’s participants are Lauren Connolly, Teaghan Hartnett, Haydon Meade, Neha Mervin, Bisma Razaque and Spencer Toth.

The initiative is aided by the Government of Ontario, which supports the entrepreneurial aspirations of youth aged 15 to 29. Each year, the program provides eligible young people with up to $3,000 in grant funding to start and operate a business over the summer months. Participants also receive comprehensive business training, expert advice and personalized mentorship to help turn their ideas into real-world enterprises.

“I love seeing kids grow in their swimming skills and confidence,” said Connolly, Connolly Swim Academy founder. “I am really excited to make my business the best it can be for my clients.”

Businesses range from a swimming instructor, Bollywood dance classes, window washing, landscaping service and farm support.

“Young entrepreneurs are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but they are also bringing fresh ideas to our region,” says Rose Terry, BAC manager. “The Summer Company Program is giving these six young entrepreneurs the opportunity to gain practical experience in launching and operating a business, while also equipping them with confidence, mentorship, and the skills they need to succeed beyond the program. We’re proud to lead a program that changes lives.”

Allison Adam, CFP Entrepreneurship Officer has been leading the program since May.

“You can really see their confidence build as they take charge of their ideas. It’s not about having everything figured out,” she said. “It’s about making progress, staying curious, and being willing to try.”

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Kinsmen Minor Football League Registration Open For the 2025 Fall Season

The Kinsmen Minor Football League (KMFL) has opened registration for the 2025 Fall Season.

Photo courtesy of KMFL.

The League will consist of a Junior Division (kids born from 2015-2017) and a Senior Division (kids born from 2012-2014).

Weekly practices start on Aug. 25, Saturday games begin Sept. 13 and the season concludes on Championship Day on Nov. 1. 

Cost is $395 with Early Bird pricing of $345 in effect until July 1.

All equipment, excluding mouthguards and cleats, is provided.

“We are very excited to open our 2025 Season,” said Angela Madill, KMFL vice-president. “Last year we had the largest season in the 45-year history of the League. We are hoping to continue that success and have added a few surprises to further enhance our player and family experience this season.”

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Tebey Golf Classic Returns To Support Youth Mental Health On June 26

To support youth mental health, the Tebey Golf Classic, hosted by Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation (GPHSF), will be held at Wildfire Golf & Country Club on June 26th.

Photo courtesy of GPHSF.

All proceeds of the event support Youth Mental Health programming through Peterborough Youth Services and YES Shelter for Youth and Families.

The day includes a meet-and-greet with Tebey, access to a private, in-person VIP acoustic performance with Tebey and special guests (TBA), activities, and contests throughout the course. Lunch and supper, prizes and professional photos of your foursome will also be at the event.

New this year is a public donation campaign launch with a minimum goal of $40,000 to be split equally between YES Shelter for Youth and Families and Peterborough Youth Services. 

Donations can be made online. All donations over $20 will receive a charitable tax receipt.

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Big Brothers Big Sisters Peterborough Launch Holiday Gift Wrapping Fundraiser At Lansdowne Place

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough has launched its annual Holiday Gift Wrapping Station at Lansdowne Place from Dec. 9 to 24.

Photo courtey of Peterborough Bigs.

The fundraiser is for youth mentoring programs run by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough.

The station is above the stairs at Lansdowne Place and is staffed entirely by volunteers. They offer gift wrapping with a recommended donation based on the gift size.  

Throughout the campaign, the station will host appearances by local government representatives including Mayor Jeff Leal, MPP Dave Smith and MP Michelle Ferrari.

“This holiday season, we’re proud to help the community add a special touch to their gifts by making a meaningful difference for youth in our community,” says Zoe King, Peterborough Bigs executive director. “Every donation supports brighter futures and stronger mentorship opportunities.”

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Kinsmen Minor Football League Registration Open For the Fall Season

The Kinsmen Minor Football League (KMFL) has opened registration for the 2024 Fall Season.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The League will consist of a Junior Division (kids born from 2014-2016) and a Senior Division (kids born from 2011-2013).

Weekly practices start on Aug. 26, Saturday games begin Sept.14 and the season concludes on Championship Day on Nov. 2. 

Cost is $395 with Early Bird pricing of $345 in effect until July 1.

All equipment, excluding mouthguards and cleats, is provided.

“We are very excited to open our 2024 Season,” said Bryan Junkin, KMFL president. “Due to the generosity of this community through sponsorships and fundraising, we are able to keep our player costs at last year's level and add a large amount of new player and training equipment.”

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National Youth Week Events in Peterborough From May 1 to 7

The City of Peterborough and community organizations are hosting National Youth Week from May 1 to 7.

National Youth Week is a movement that celebrates youth and their active participation in their community. Each year, the City’s Recreation and Parks Services Division partners with various organizations to host a wide range of activities for youth to promote National Youth Week and encourage youth participation in community programs. Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Events include a First Friday Art Crawl, an expedition to Jackson Park to learn about birds, create a needle-felted Baby Yoda and play drop-in sports.

The entire lineup of free events for youth 10 to 19 is available online.

Events will occur at various locations including the Peterborough Museum & Archives, the Peterborough Public Library, the Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre, Jackson Park and Downtown Youth Space.

National Youth Week serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of providing youth with opportunities to lead, innovate and inspire according to Councillor Lesley Parnell, Community Services (Recreation and Parks, Fire Services, and Arenas) Portfolio Co-Chair.

“Beyond promoting activities for youth, it’s a time for us to reflect on how we, as a community, can better support the next generation to make Peterborough a more inclusive, vibrant and forward-thinking city,” she said. “Our City is committed to nurturing the dreams and capabilities of our young people.”

“Our youth play an essential role in social and cultural life of our city,” said Councillor Gary Baldwin. “Their insights and enthusiasm are the key to our community’s continued growth and prosperity.”

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Tebey Golf Classic Returns To Support Youth Mental Health For May 30

To support youth mental health, the Tebey Golf Classic with Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation (GPHSF) is hosted at Wildfire Golf & Country Club on May 30th.

Golfers, sponsors, partners and donors more than $200,000 has been raised since 2017. Photo courtesy of GPHSF.

Foursomes are available for $1,200. It includes a shotgun tee-off, meet and greet with Tebey, access to private in-person VIP acoustic performance with Tebey and special guests (TBA), activities and contests throughout the course, lunch and supper, prizes, professional photos of your foursome and the opportunity to play one of Ontario’s top private courses that has hosted PGA tour events. 

A $240 tax receipt will be provided to all foursomes, with funds raised to support Youth Mental Health programming through Peterborough Youth Services and YES Shelter for Youth and Families.

“I’m really looking forward to getting home for our annual golf fundraiser with GPSHF, Your Family Health Team Foundation,” said Tebey. "As someone who has expressed my own challenges with mental health well-being over the years, it's really important to me to support initiatives in this area of health services. I am especially proud to give back to these organizations like Peterborough Youth Services and YES Shelter for Youth and Families who provide essential and valuable assistance in my hometown area of Peterborough.”

A shotgun tee-off is scheduled for 12:30 p.m., with an outdoor acoustic performance at 7 p.m. 

“These funds help us to reduce wait times and to provide specialized services for children, youth and families,” said Gord Langill, Peterborough Youth Services executive director. “Mental health issues are affecting more people in more complex ways, and resources are limited, so every fund-raised dollar makes a difference.”

From YES Shelter for Youth and Families Executive Director “The Tebey Golf Classic is one of the highlights of our year at YES,” said Aimeé Le Lagadec, Yes Shelter executive director. “This incredible event has become crucial to the support provided to young people and families struggling severely with their mental health while experiencing homelessness in Peterborough."

Foursomes for the tournament can be booked online.

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Applications Open For the 2024 Peterborough Youth Council

The City of Peterborough is now accepting applications for the Peterborough Youth Council 2024 term for anyone between 12 and 21 who lives or attends school in town.

File Photo.

The Peterborough Youth Council is a voice for youth in our community. Members bring their ideas and energy to organizing and participating in community events. Youth Council members attend monthly meetings and collaborate with Recreation and Parks Services staff to plan community events.

This Council counts towards volunteer hours for an Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

“I’ve enjoyed working with outstanding young people on the Peterborough Youth Council over the years,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell. “The Youth Council contributes a lot of valuable perspectives to community events, in turn members gain valuable experience and make new friends. I encourage anyone who is interested to apply.”

“The young people in Peterborough are the future of our community. We value their perspectives and welcome their input,” said Councillor Gary Baldwin. “Peterborough Youth Council is an opportunity to develop our leaders of tomorrow, while offering lots of fun along the way.”

Applications are due by April 26 at 4:30 p.m.

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Peterborough Transit To Provide Grade 8 Transit Quest Program During March Break

Peterborough Transit has partnered with Active School Travel Peterborough to provide the Grade 8 Transit Quest program from March 8 to March 17.

Photo by Keegan Beekers.

The program encourages students to use public transit by providing a free transit pass during March Break.

The Quest’s purpose is to increase students’ familiarity of the Peterborough Transit system as they begin to travel independently. Peterborough Transit alos wants a goal of making transit a mode of transportation that is both normal and accessible for local youth. Children aged 12 and under ride transit free year-round.

As incentive, students will receive a destination passport along with their transit passes which features free or discounted travel destinations.

“This is a great program to encourage kids to get familiar with Peterborough Transit routes,” said Ashley Burnie, GreenUp program coordinator. “Transit is an ideal transportation option for students to get to part-time jobs, shopping or seeing friends across town.”

Active School Travel Peterborough will be distributing the Grade 8 Transit Quest destination passports and free transit passes to Grade 8 classes in the City of Peterborough this week.

Ten destinations are featured in the Transit Quest destination passport including the Sport and Wellness Centre, the Public Library, the Museum and Archives and the Art Gallery of Peterborough, among other local businesses. Participants are encouraged to post to social media with #PTBOTransitQuest to share their journey and return their passports to their teacher to be entered into a class raffle.

New to the program are on-bus orientations for classes upon request.

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