Youth Summer Program Highlights!

Peel CAS is halfway through our Summer programs at Trailblazers Youth Centre, and we’re blown away by the progress, dedication, and positivity we’ve seen so far. Whether youth are learning to navigate the transit system, trying out a new sport, giving back and volunteering with our Peel Children's Aid Foundation, or cooking their first full meal, the growth has been incredible.

We’re so impressed and happy with the accomplishments of the children and youth we support in just a few short weeks and we can’t wait to see what they’ll achieve by the end of August! Did you know that our Trailblazers Youth Centre programs receive over 1,000 registrations each year? Over 40 programs are offered to the children and youth we support, all made possible by donors and community partners, along with our incredible staff, mentors and volunteers! Check them out:

Jay's Care Foundation RBI

For the fifth year, RBI Baseball has been more than just a game. It’s a space where youth learn teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship while discovering the joy of playing ball in a supportive community.

Games are full of encouragement, whether a player is hitting a home run or striking out, there’s always someone cheering. The sense of belonging and pride is as important as the skills being built.

From our youth: "Every week I feel more confident, not just with baseball but with meeting new people. We all support each other and have fun, no matter what level we’re at. I always feel welcome here.”

MLSE House of Hockey

This Summer’s league has been a place where beginners and seasoned players alike sharpen their hockey skills while learning leadership, patience, and resilience. Between games, coaches run skill-building drills focused on communication, problem-solving, and healthy competition.

On the court, we’ve seen shy youth become vocal leaders, encouraging teammates after a missed shot and celebrating small wins. The laughter, high fives, and mutual respect are as important as any goal scored.

From our youth: “I used to get mad when I messed up, but now I just try again. My team always cheers me on, and it makes me want to do the same for them."

Bully Be Gone

This unique program combines martial arts training with discussions on respect, empathy, and standing up against bullying. Youth are learning how to defuse conflicts, protect themselves physically if needed, and carry themselves with confidence.

It’s empowering to watch participants grow, not just in skill, but in kindness and leadership. They’re walking out of each session knowing they can stand up for themselves and others.

From our youth: "Before this, I would just freeze if someone picked on me. Now I know what to say and do, and I also think more about how I treat people." 

Cooking with Confidence

Our virtual kitchen has been alive with sizzling sounds and delicious aromas. Youth 14+ have been discovering that cooking is not just a skill, it’s an act of independence. They’re mastering everything from meal prep and nutrition awareness to food safety and creative plating.

Chef Fran Murray brings humor and encouragement to each session, reminding youth that mistakes are part of learning. The real magic happens when participants show off their dishes to their families, beaming with pride at the fact that they created something from scratch.

From our youth: “Cooking from my own kitchen made everything feel real, I wasn’t just watching, I was actually doing it. Having Chef Fran guide us step-by-step made it so much easier and more fun. I’ve never felt this confident in the kitchen before. Now I know I can make meals on my own.”

Wheels in Motion

This brand-new program was created specifically for the youth we support and marked a milestone, it was the first time both MiWay and Brampton Transit teams worked together to deliver one united learning experience. Their commitment to providing a cohesive, youth-focused session truly shone through.

In the workshop, youth learned how to plan routes, make transfers, understand fare systems, and practice rider safety. For many, it was their first time navigating public transit without a parent or guardian.

The result? A room full of confident, excited youth who now know they can explore their city independently. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and we’re already looking forward to inviting both transit teams back for another round.

From our youth: “I always felt nervous taking the bus on my own. Now I know how to plan my route, use my PRESTO card, and feel confident going places by myself."

Aware and Prepared with Safe City Mississauga

Facilitated by Safe City Mississauga, this program dives deep into online safety, personal protection, critical thinking, and confident communication. Youth role-play real-world situations, learning to set boundaries, protect their privacy, and respond calmly under pressure.

They leave sessions feeling not just informed, but equipped to handle the unexpected in their digital and physical worlds.

From our youth: “This program helped me feel more confident about staying safe and thinking things through. We talked about real-life situations, and it made me feel like I’m not alone."

Community Garden

Our Trailblazers Youth Centre team has been out at the community garden bi-weekly, working hard to ensure everything is growing and flourishing. From watering and weeding to tending to the vibrant veggies and herbs, we’ve been committed to helping this space thrive. It’s been rewarding to see the progress each visit, and we’re excited to continue nurturing this little patch of green throughout the Summer.

Volunteering with Peel Children's Aid Foundation

Volunteer Day at Peel Children's Aid Foundation was about more than sorting boxes, it’s about learning the power of giving back. Youth work side by side, lifting, organizing, and packing supplies that will directly help people in need. Along the way, they develop teamwork, time management, and a sense of community pride.

By the end of the day, you can see the change. Youth stand taller, knowing their work matters. They leave not just with hours logged for school, but with real-life experience in responsibility, collaboration and community.

From our youth: "I thought volunteering was just something you had to do for school, but now I get why people keep doing it. It feels good to know you helped someone, even if you never meet them."