Enriching Youth Through Skating: A Journey of Growth and Community Support

Our after-school skate program has come a long way since its humble beginnings. In 2021, we received funding from Jumpstart to kick-start the program, and the response was overwhelming. Not only did we see participants from our biking program but many new faces, expanding our reach. The program's immediate success was evident as every skate and helmet was used weekly.

Thanks to Jumpstart's continued support in 2023, we expanded further by purchasing additional equipment, effectively doubling the number of aspiring skaters we could accommodate. Their funding also enabled us to run a five-week learn-to-skate program for 15 girls, which was a huge success.

In 2024, when mild temperatures challenged our regular skate programs on the outdoor rink, the Sens Community Foundation stepped in with crucial funding. Their support allowed us to rent indoor ice and covered transportation costs for the youth. This support ensured that our program continued to thrive despite the weather challenges. As a result, 90% of our skate participants had their first-ever skating experience with TFKO, a testament to the impact of the Sens Community Foundation's support.

We are incredibly grateful for each of our sponsors' support. As we look ahead to the next season, we are thrilled to announce that the Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group has already committed to funding our November/December 2024 girls' learn-to-skate program. With their support and the ongoing backing of our other sponsors, we are excited to continue expanding our skating program, providing more opportunities for underserved youth in our community.