On Sunday, May 14th, Children’s Aid Societies across Ontario, the Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies (OACAS) and YouthCAN will be paying tribute to children and youth in care. This year is the fourth anniversary of this annual day which is intended to recognize the strength, bravery and resilience shown by those in care who, through no fault of their own, often face stigmas that must be challenged.
In recognition of Children and Youth in Care Day, on May 15th, several youth and staff from Kawartha-Haliburton CAS will travel to Queen’s Park for the 5th annual Youth Civics Day hosted by the Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies and organized by YouthCAN staff. One of the goals of Youth Civics Day is for youth in care to learn about government, observe legislative proceedings and participate in civics-themed fun and educational activities. The day will include remarks by the Minister and opposition critics, a light lunch, and a chance to meet with local MPPs. This year, a permanency focus has also been added to the day in collaboration with the Office of the Provincial Advocate and Adopt 4 Life. Past Civics Day events have seen well over 150 youth in care and CAS staff attending from around the province.
On May 17th, a celebration of Children and Youth in Care Day will take place at the Peterborough office of the Kawartha-Haliburton CAS. The event will include a BBQ, music and prizes for children and youth in the care of the Society. As part of the celebration, the Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Foundation will present several educational awards to graduates from Grades 8 and 12, as well as from College and University.
Commenting on the importance of Children and Youth in Care Day, Jennifer Wilson, Executive Director of KHCAS said, “Children and youth in the care of our Society continue to show great strength in rising above the hardships and challenges they have faced in their lives. This annual day provides all of us with an opportunity to celebrate and recognize them and to offer our support on a provincial level.”
On June 13th, the Children’s Foundation, Highland Shores Children’s Aid and Mohawk Family Services will celebrate the many amazing achievements of young people in care at the 18th Annual Reach for Success Youth Awards. Mark Kartusch, Executive Director of Highland Shores Children’s Aid commented, “Each year we look forward to being able to recognize the tremendous accomplishments of a group of young people who often face unwarranted stigma as a result of being in care. On Children and Youth in Care Day and at the June awards event we will celebrate both their spirit and tenacity.”
