On May 21, 2016, over 75 participants and 50 volunteers gathered at Nathan Phillips Square to raise funds for homeless youth. The day was Trek for Teens Day - participants were challenged to compete in a series of checkpoint-based activities across downtown Toronto, racing against rival groups in an effort to win the Race Cup!
Back at Nathan Phillips Square, passersby made "pay-what-you-can" donations to play at the giant-sized fair games, for all ages, and to sample the foods of the truck vendors. Volunteers also canvassed the outskirts of the square, speaking to individuals and groups about the issue of youth homelessness.
Upon completion of the race, participants returned to the square for the Closing Ceremonies. It began with a dance activity led by Fitness & Lifestyle Coach Dione Mason and her team. The Closing Ceremonies reinforced the topics discussed during the morning's Opening Ceremonies: myths and facts surrounding youth homelessness, Trek for Teens's mission to raise funds and awareness for homeless youth in local communities, and the names of the three youth shelters supported by the organization - Covenant House Toronto, Horizons for Youth, and Youth Without Shelter.
The winning team was called up and congratulated and, then, the day ended. Trek for Teens raised $1150 for homeless youth!
Trek for Teens would like to thank all participants, volunteers, and photographers/videographers who helped to make a difference in the lives of homeless youth. A special thank you to sponsors Smoke's Poutinerie and Smoke's Burritorie, Dione Mason and her team, and Entripy Custom Clothing.
For photos from the day's event, head to our Facebook albums. For videos from the day's event, head to our Vimeo.