Why focus on kids?
Research shows the early years (prenatal – six) are the most important influence on a child’s development. Through community conversations, residents shared that they believe Oxford County should be a great place for all kids to grow up and as a community, we need to put kids on the path to success by investing in their development. All kids regardless of their circumstances should get the opportunities they need to thrive.
Successful kids are the future of our community.
Local Strategies
Nurture children and youth
- Empower children and youth to strengthen their resiliency, self-esteem, sense of belonging, self-regulation and ability to cope with day to day challenges
- Leverage children and youth’s education, leadership, mentorship, recreation and social opportunities
- Enhance the capacity of parents, service partners and the community to support children through their developmental stages
All That Kids Can Be Programs
Mentoring, Recreation and Social Cadet Program with Navy League & Sea Cadets
This no-cost program ensures youth have the opportunity to experience physical fitness, life-skill development, mentorship and friendship in a safe and welcoming environment
Education, Leadership, Recreation & Social Programs with Fusion Youth Activity & Technology Centre
Youth (aged 10-18) participating in asset-based programs at Fusion are encouraged to explore their interests and develop their skills and abilities as they make a healthy transition into adulthood
Student School Nutrition Program with Oxford County Nutritional Partnership
This inclusive program ensures that all children and youth in our community attend school nourished and ready to learn
Youth, Community & Site Based Mentoring Programs with Big Brothers Big Sisters Ingersoll, Tillsonburg & Area and Big Brothers Big Sisters Woodstock & District
Programs work to empower children to reach their full potential by building resiliency and self-esteem through positive relationships with caring adults
Youth Horse Guided Program & Mentorship with Community Options for Justice
This program is designed to connect with youth experiencing barriers in their everyday life. It helps build trust, develop interpersonal skills and identify self-strengths
Teen Nights Program with YMCA Woodstock
This no-cost Friday program provides a safe and welcoming space for youth (aged 13-24) in our community to explore and engage in activities that meet their individual and group interests
‘For Teens by Teens’ with the Woodstock Public Library
Public libraries are an important community institution. They are a place of belonging, a place of learning, a place of development, a place of safety and a place of creativity. This initiative will create an experiential environment that teens in our community have identified as a need