Thursday, August 29, 2024

Title: An Unforgettable Outdoor Adventure with Vision Youth

 


From August 20th to August 22nd, Vision Youth Leadership Program participants - Visioneers embarked on an exhilarating 3-day, 2-night outdoor camp at Camp Enobanah. This adventure aimed to cultivate crucial skills in communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal dynamics within the Visioneers.


Our journey began at 10 AM, as we boarded a bright yellow school bus from the community center and set off for the campsite. Upon arrival, the Visioneers dove straight into an activity focused on establishing ground rules for their time together. This set the stage for a collaborative and respectful environment.





The fun kicked off with a game called “Viking and Jelly,” where everyone formed a circle and took turns being the Viking by pointing "horns" at others. If you were pointed at, you became the new Viking, and the game continued in a lively rotation. Another favorite was “Big Wind Blows,” which involved one person in the center making statements, while everyone scrambled to find a new seat based on the statement. These games were not only entertaining but also helped the group bond and interact playfully.



After a satisfying lunch, we took to the water for canoeing. The Visioneers learned essential skills for rowing and steering their canoes, which came in handy during the next day's adventures. Dinner featured a delicious barbecue followed by a modified version of “Capture the Flag,” before we all turned in for the night.





The next day began with a canoe race, a combination of competition and fun. Jessemar and Ethan emerged as the victors. Later, we played “Capture the Flag” on the water. During this game, a boat capsized, and Alex and Paco needed assistance. Addie and I took on the task of securing the boat using the canoe rescue technique -  “canoe over canoe” . This experience was not only a chance to learn new skills but also a testament to our teamwork. Thanks to Addie’s guidance, I also picked up how to steer from the back of the canoe.





As night fell, we gathered around the campfire for a skit performance. Travis, Tara, and Jessemar’s hilarious take on the Big Bad Wolf won the audience over. The evening took a spooky turn when Addie spun a silly, scary tale. While most of us found the story amusing, the girls were genuinely spooked by the “old white man” character. In response, we went to the boys' cabin for protection, receiving various makeshift weapons, including a pocket knife from Paco and some marshmallow roasting spears. The boys, even the pranksters, joined in the fun, throwing random objects as part of our playful defense.





On our final morning, we packed up, enjoyed a hearty breakfast, and tackled a few more games. My personal favorite was the spider web game, where a rope web was strung between trees, and we had to figure out how to pass everyone through without touching the ropes or reusing holes. Initially, our lack of communication made the challenge tough, but we eventually worked together and succeeded.



Reflecting on the trip, it was clear that this was more than just an outdoor camp adventure—it was a unique learning experience that offered both fun and growth. Whether or not I would choose to return with the Visioneers is still uncertain, but the memories and lessons from Camp Enobanah are something I will cherish.








Sunday, August 18, 2024

Stem Cell Drive 9/8/2024 - 11/8/2024

 On August 9th, August 10th, and August 11th, Vision Youth organized a Stem Cell Drive in cooperation with the Canadian Blood Services. Our dedicated team embarked on a mission to raise awareness about the importance of stem cell therapy and encourage individuals to register as potential donors. Our ultimate goal was to provide crucial support to critically ill patients in need of stem cell transplants.


The journey began with some challenges on the first day, as the festival was situated in a secluded area with fewer festival-goers than expected. However, undeterred by the circumstances, our team of volunteers worked tirelessly and managed to register 7 individuals. It was a testament to their unwavering commitment and determination.





Building on this momentum, the second day brought a remarkable improvement, with 22 individuals registering as potential stem cell donors. Despite facing moments of discouragement, our volunteers remained steadfast, their unwavering dedication leaving a profound impact on everyone involved.




The final day of the event was nothing short of extraordinary, as 25 individuals stepped forward and registered. With the support of our incredible team of 6 dedicated volunteers, we were able to achieve this remarkable feat. Their passion and enthusiasm, coupled with their unwavering resolve, truly epitomized the spirit of selflessness and community service.





The entire experience was nothing short of enriching, and I am immensely proud of the dedication and effort demonstrated by our team. Their unwavering commitment has left an indelible mark, and I am filled with gratitude for having been part of such a remarkable event. Looking ahead, I eagerly anticipate future initiatives that will continue to make a positive impact in our community, inspired by the selflessness and dedication of all those who joined us in this meaningful cause.


Multicultural Walk 2024

 On July 21st, 2024, our Bronze Visioneers participated in our annual Multicultural Walk. The purpose of this event was to encourage youth to learn more about the history and culture of Toronto. 


The Visioneers worked in their teams to complete a scavenger hunt. They explored the various neighborhoods to solve riddles based on notable landmarks.


They started the day at Nathan Phillips Square, the home of Toronto City Hall. The Visioneers learned about the many sculptures and architectural features of the square that represent Toronto’s international population and Canada’s role on the global stage. One task took them to the Peace Garden. This garden commemorates the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. It contains water from Nagasaki and an eternal flame ignited from the Peace Flame in Hiroshima. This garden symbolizes hope and a commitment to world peace. 


Group photo before a long day!

Team Raptors with Three Way Piece No.2: Archer by Henry Moore.


After completing all the tasks in Nathan Phillips Square, they made their way to Grange Park. This is a prominent park that neighbors important Toronto buildings such as OCAD University, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and The Grange (one of Toronto’s oldest surviving brick houses). One feature of this park is the many granite paving stones with quotes from notable Canadian figures. Do you know which Canadian author said this?


“In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.”


Team West Virginia’s submission for a team photo that represents teamwork.


Next stop, Chinatown! Here, the students solved riddles about Chinese menu items, historical buildings, and cultural landmarks. Did you know that before this neighborhood became known as Chinatown, it was a Jewish community? The Visioneers traced this history through The Standard Theatre. When it was completed in 1921, it became the first theatre in North America built to perform Yiddish language plays. This theatre eventually became a Chinese movie theatre in 1975 before closing in 1994. 

 

Do you know what Chinese character the outline of these two sculptures make?


Afterwards, the Visioneers visited the vibrant Kensington Market neighborhood. This is a diverse neighborhood that is influenced by cultures such as Chinese, Portuguese, Caribbean, and Jewish. Kensington Market is home to many vintage and thrift stores, international cuisines, and street art. 



Team West Virginia with the Cat on a Globe sculpture.


Little Italy


Finally, the two teams arrived at the last neighborhood, Little Italy, known for its authentic restaurants and cafes. The Visioneers learned about famous Italian-Canadians by walking along the Italian Walk of Fame and visited an iconic neighborhood institution, Cafe Diplomatico.

Cafe Diplomatico or “The Dip”. 


After a long day of walking, the Visioneers reflected that they got to know each other better, practiced teamwork, and discovered new parts of the city.


A Day of Camaraderie and Sportsmanship: The 2024 Charity Soccer Tournament

 




The 2024 Charity Soccer Tournament organized by Vision Youth was a day filled with excitement and community spirit. With 22 teams across four categories, the tournament aimed to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise funds for a noble cause. Over 400 participants and numerous enthusiastic spectators gathered at the Breczy Soccer Fields, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.


Arriving at 7:15 to help set up gazebos and soccer goals, the volunteers and teams prepared for intense competition. Amidst the sweltering heat, the soccer field buzzed with energy as talented kids and adults geared up for a day of friendly competition.


The Exhibition match between the York Region Police and the City of Markham Soccer Team and the friendly game between SFC and Millennium United were both a highlight of the event The intense matches drew cheers from the crowd, ending with a 2-0 victory for the York Region Police soccer team and a 1-0 victory for SFC. Congratulations to the winning teams!


The tournament raised over $9000, thanks to the generous support of sponsors such as Café Hollywood, Daily Seafood, ETC Insurance, along with other valued contributors. Their support played a vital role in making the event a resounding success.


Throughout the day, the tournament highlighted the community's exceptional sportsmanship and the remarkable talent of the participants, especially the young teams. After a day filled with intense competition, Seahorse emerged as the Over-Fifty Five tournament champion, with Super Friends Club as the first runner-up. In the Under-twelve category, TOCA claimed the top spot, and TCSA secured the first runner-up position. The Under-Ten division saw TOCA take the victory, with J7 as the first runner-up and LVLUP as the second runner-up. Lastly, in the Under-eight category, TOCA emerged victorious, with Bear Cubs securing the first runner-up position.


The tournament concluded on a high note, with a heartfelt thank you extended to all the participants and congratulations to the well-deserved winners. It was an unforgettable day filled with incredible displays of sportsmanship, fierce competition, and unwavering community support.


The event was a true testament to the power of sports in bringing people together and promoting a shared sense of camaraderie. As the sun set on the Breczy Soccer Fields, it marked the end of a day filled with meaningful connections, friendly competition, and a shared love for the beautiful game.









Monday, July 22, 2024

Stem Cell Drive 5/7/2024 - 7/7/2024

    On July 5th, July 6th, and July 7th, Vision Youth organized a Stem Cell Drive in cooperation with the Canadian Blood Services. Our primary objective was to raise awareness about stem cell therapy's importance and inspire individuals to register as potential stem cell donors, ultimately aiming to support critically ill patients in need of stem cell transplants.


    The first day of the festival presented some initial challenges as we faced rejections and struggled to capture the attention of festival-goers. However, with perseverance and refined engagement strategies, we successfully registered 15 individuals, making a positive outcome despite the initial obstacles.



    Day two proved to be more manageable, thanks to the dedication of our volunteers. Although there were moments of discouragement, two exceptional volunteers, with training and guidance, successfully registered 30 individuals. Their unwavering determination was truly inspiring and served as a testament to the impact of their hard work.



    The final day of the event surpassed our expectations as we registered a total of 39 people. Our volunteers' determination and passion made the registration process smoother and more effective. Each volunteer was tasked to register at least five people, a target that was achieved by three volunteers who had faced challenges in the preceding days. Recognizing their accomplishments, they were granted a well-deserved half-hour break to celebrate their success.



    The entire experience was enriching, and we are immensely proud of the dedication and effort demonstrated by our volunteers. We are grateful to have been part of such a meaningful event and eagerly anticipate future initiatives that aim to make a positive impact in our community.


Wednesday, October 26, 2022

社會計劃創新學院舉行首場實體免費公開講座,邀請多位年青領䄂分享經驗。

 


 第二屆「社會計劃創新學院」開始招募新學員

「展望青年領袖培訓計劃」-鼓勵大多市青少年參與及造福社區

  為了啟發年輕人的創意,藉此參與及貢獻社區,「展望青年領袖培訓計劃」主辦第二屆「社會計劃創新學院」(Social Innovation Academy),於本周六(29日)舉行首場實體公開講座,邀請多位年青領䄂分享經驗。是次講座費用全免,歡迎1519歲人士報名參加。

  社會計劃創新學院是「展望青年」與多倫多大學社工學院 (Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto) ,以及多倫多都會大學創變領袖學院(Institute for Change Leaders, Toronto Metropolitan University) 的合作項目。

  「展望青年」主席李樹德表示,通過此項目把社區參與計劃擴展為一個為期6個月的密集課程。此計劃的目的是啟發年輕人的創新思維,藉一些有實踐經驗的導師指引下,培養學員的興趣和參與度,並發掘社區問題的解決方案。

  他指出,不少華人家長關心子女的學業成績,期望他們能夠考取高分數,以便進入心儀的大學和學系。其實,本國大學收生的條件,不僅是參考科目的分數,校方還會看看申請人參加的課外活動和義工服務,他們對社會所作的貢獻;有些情況下,甚至比學術成就更為重要。

  李樹德稱,此計劃除了提高年輕人的技能,幫助他們在進入成年階段建立信心,還可以在面對社區挑戰時,幫助他們發揮領導潛能並解決問題。同時,該會將通過各種指導﹑訓練﹑技能發展,網絡和資源,為學員提供所需的支援。

  今年的講座主題「啟發至領導」(Inspire to Lead),大會邀請的主講嘉賓,來自本地的改革先鋒,包括:Legacy of HopeProject 5KUrban MindsDot Dot Fire,他們分享從不同途徑改變社會,參加者了解本地的社會問題,以及年輕領袖如何對他們的社區產生影響。

  活動於本周六(29日)早上10時至12時,在多倫多大學社工學院(Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work)舉行,地址:Room 548, 246 Bloor Street West Toronto。報名及查詢詳情,請點擊以下的連線:https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/vision-youth-social-innovation-academy-2022-inspire-to-lead-forum-tickets-444593249377



如欲報名參加社會計劃創新學院課程,請瀏覽網址:www.visionyouth.ca

關於「展望青年」

展望青年領袖計劃成立於2001年, 全由義工負責營運,目的是培養和加強初出茅廬的青年領袖,以解決他們所在社區正面臨的挑戰。本會認為,青少年是對世界發揮正面影響的動力,因此挑戰青少年超越自我,燃亮心中的火,以激發他們對社區承擔的責任感。至今展望青年計劃超過1,200名畢業生,完成逾200個社區服務項目,以及33,000個社區服務小時。

 

 

 

Open Free In-person public forum at Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor St W, Toronto

 

For immediate release

This year Vision Youth is partnering up with Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto and Institute for Change Leaders, Toronto Metropolitan University to offer our 6-month accelerator program, Social Innovation Academy (SIA), that helps connect youth with cutting-edge thinking and hands-on experience that cultivate their interest and engagement in finding solutions to local community issues. 

This opportunity not only leads to skill enhancement, and confidence building as they navigate towards adulthood, but also helps them realize their leadership potential as they solve community challenges. We will support them with a variety of mentorship, coaching, skills development, networking, and resources. 

As a celebration to start the Social Innovation Academy 2022, we have organized a special forum – “Inspire to Lead”.  We have invited the successful social enterprises in Toronto to tell our audiences on why and how they started their social enterprises to help others.  On our panel this year, we have the Co-founder of Project 5K – Vincent Chan, Co-Founder of Urban Minds – Ryan Lo, Dot Dot Fire - Content developer and Partnership development – Sabrina Au,  Executive Director and In-house legal counsel of the Legacy of Hope – Teresa Edwards. Corporate Consultant and Leadership Development Specialist – Philip Lai will be the moderator.  

The “Inspire and Lead” forum is open to the public.  Please register at the following Eventbrite link to register for the open forum -   

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/vision-youth-social-innovation-academy-2022-inspire-to-lead-forum-tickets-444593249377

Date : Oct 29 2022

Time : 10 am to 12 noon

Venue: Room 548, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1V4

Media are welcome to cover our forum. Please email eric.li@visionyouth.ca to confirm your attendance.



We still have a few spots for the SIA 2022 . Please visit www.visionyouth.ca for registration and to view last year’s demo day and projects.  Please direct email inquiry to hello@visionyouth.ca or call 416-800-4040

Program Overview

Who: Teens 15 – 19 years old in the Greater Toronto Area 

When: October 2022 through March 2023

Where: Room 548, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1V4

What: Students participate in workshops designed to teach the skills necessary to launch social impact projects, awareness campaigns, and non-profit organizations. These 6 online workshops, taught by industry and non-profit experts, teach the students skills such as social entrepreneurship, event planning, budgeting, research and development, networking, and more.

At the end of the program, each participant along with their team will present a proposal of their solution for their chosen local community issue. One team will become the recipient of the $1,000 Vision Youth Social Innovation Academy grant, which will help them fund the pilot of their solution.

About Last Year’s Cohort

Last years inaugural academy had over 30 graduates. Six teams of youths completed their online training and pitched their project idea to the panel of judges on demo day with hope to get resources to scale and implement their project. Each team presented their issues and pilot program proposal. The initiatives included:

 

·  Reconciliation with First Nation

·  Education with a focus on analytical and critical thinking skills

·  Youth Homelessness

·  Youth Mental Health

Project Bawaajigan is a good example.  A group from the last year’s cohort worked with Indigenous groups, created the project aims to help educate and create a community around advocating for Indigenous Rights.  They also Promotes Indigenous initiatives, movements and businesses on Social media. The group choose one topic every week to education and generate discussion on social media.  

 

About Vision Youth

Founded in 2001 and 100% operated by volunteers, the Vision Youth Leadership Program cultivates and empowers emerging young leaders to create solutions to challenges facing their communities. We believe youth are a driving force in creating positive changes in the world and so we challenge them to rise above and ignite the spark within that would inspire them to take responsibility for their communities. Our impact to date: 

·  Over 1,200 Vision Youth Program Graduates

·  Over 200 Community Service Projects Completed

·  Over 33,000 Community Service Hours Performed


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Media Contact

 

Eric Li, Vision Youth

eric.li@visionyouth.ca

Tel. (416) 473-9844

Wednesday, August 5, 2020


July Parents' Workshop Recap: Racial Discrimination, Student Support & STEM at Home Workshop


By Ingrid Li / Aug. 5, 2020



On July 25th 2020, Vision Youth hosted an online workshop on racial discrimination, student support, and interactive Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) educational games. The workshop featured guest speakers Amy Go, the founding president of Chinese Canadian National Council for Social Justice, Youmy Han, a staff member from the Honourable Mary Ng MP’s office, and Franco Lam, a Chief Development Officer of Dotdotfire.com.


Amy Go discussed racism in schools and how the Chinese Canadian National Council for Social Justice (CCNCSJ) was founded in 1980 to educate, engage and advocate for equity and justice for all. She proceeded to explain the importance of getting children to build confidence through understanding their Chinese Canadian history and identity, and learn how to react when experiencing racist attacks or isolation. Moreover, Amy stressed the necessity of communicating with schools about the safety and racial measures that will be taken once schools reopen. Several questions that should be brought out are how the spread of the virus and racism will be prevented, if there will be tools to equip teachers to address anti-Asian racism, and the school’s policies on equity, anti-racism and inclusion. CCNCSJ has also been working on an anti-Asian racism project where an online reporting tool was made as well as social media campaigns to bring awareness. Furthermore, they will be collaborating with the City of Toronto and Vision Youth on another research project called PROTECH. Most importantly, they will be providing focus group consultations on August 8-9 for children and guardians who speak English, cantonese and mandarin. The organization can be contacted through national@ccncsj.ca.


The second portion of the workshop was continued by Youmy Han, who spoke about the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since many students are struggling to support themselves with school and classes being interrupted, the government has added 10, 000 new jobs. They have also increased wage subsidy until February 28, 2021 to give people the opportunity to hire others for part time jobs for a longer period of time. Meanwhile, a 6 month interest fee moratorium on Canada’s student loans from March 30 to September 30 to take off financial pressure from students. Likewise, Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB) has provided $1250 monthly to help graduates who don't have CERB and an extra $750 per month for those who have disabilities. Additionally, Canada's service grants $500 for postsecondary students or recent graduates who want to volunteer for non profit organizations until October 31. The website canada.ca/covid19 can be visited for more information about support programs for youth and international students.


Lastly, Franco Lam introduced an organization called Dot Dot Fire, a startup from Hong Kong that has been expanded to the United States. Since online learning has started, various problems have arisen. Students are either not joining in the calls or are disengaged and unmotivated. This organization conducted an experiment where they were able to keep 10 year old students fully engaged online for over an hour. This was through the use of games; the perfect medium for motivation as it is the language of the current generation. Games can be used as a connection between teachers and students and the STEM program gives kids the chance to learn more about math, aviation and engineering principles. The class usually starts with a video game to motivate the class followed by a design project where students will continue to conduct scientific experiments outside of class. Some STEM games are also available on Dot Dot Fire’s website. Another game that is currently being made by this organization is a financial literacy game where kids can learn not to be impulsive, to be smart with money and to be a smart consumer. Through this simulation game, they must apply critical life skills, decision making and career/life choices. Overall, though remote learning can be challenging, it is necessary to find high quality education to keep kids motivated and engaged. During online learning, students will be given the opportunity to learn things that perhaps they've been wanting to learn for a long time. 


All in all, the speakers from this workshop provided more insight on the action to be taken from the government as well as schools and organizations to help students adapt to the current situation.