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<h2>Introduction to a Promising Partnership</h2>MyInLaw’s Fair Club is excited to announce a new community partnership with Coach Ken Wade and Lights Out Basketball Academy to support accessible basketball programming for children and youth in East Scarborough.The sports world is abuzz with excitement as Fair Club announces its new partnership with Lights Out Basketball Academy. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in both organizations' missions to promote youth development and excellence in basketball. By joining forces, they aim to create a platform that nurtures talent and fosters a love for the game among young athletes.<figure id="figure-ikm4iajrmmu360f1i"><img id="ikm4iajrmmu360f1i" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30kbCttktYQ2Fp7R3RPkugnleP3TVWn3FwA27O5SonXE1J6NTwQl1DXhxHmZZEtj.png" alt="Four diverse young basketball players executing transition drills during small-group training session with coach supervising on gymnasium court" title="Four diverse young basketball players executing transition drills during small-group training session with coach supervising on gymnasium court" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h3>Shared Vision and Goals</h3>This partnership will help Fair Club strengthen its recreation programming by creating opportunities for youth to learn basketball skills, build confidence, stay active, and develop positive relationships with coaches and mentors. For many newcomers, Black, East African, and low-income families, access to structured sport programming can be limited by cost, location, transportation, and a lack of culturally responsive support. Through this collaboration, we aim to make basketball more accessible, welcoming, and connected to broader youth development.The partnership will focus on several key areas:<ul><li>Skill Development: Offering advanced training sessions and workshops.</li><li>Community Engagement: Organizing events and tournaments to bring people together.</li><li>Mentorship Programs: Connecting young athletes with experienced coaches and players.</li></ul>As part of this partnership, Fair Club and Lights Out Basketball Academy will offer Friday basketball sessions this fall from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Ealsmare Community Centre. These sessions will provide children and youth with opportunities to develop their basketball skills in a supportive and inclusive community environment.<figure id="figure-xk3qrvmcxbmu360jsf"><img id="xk3qrvmcxbmu360jsf" src="https://rjdavx8ozyznxeyh.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/production/websites/infinite-images/b029e0c5-dcbb-4cf0-a45c-691366cc6674-ql9QePZKO7zi8y7Z8SGG1aJZkMhdxi.png" alt="basketball training" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://rjdavx8ozyznxeyh.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/production/websites/infinite-images/b029e0c5-dcbb-4cf0-a45c-691366cc6674-ql9QePZKO7zi8y7Z8SGG1aJZkMhdxi.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Community and Engagement</h3>A core component of the partnership is community engagement. Fair Club and Lights Out Basketball Academy are committed to creating inclusive environments where players from all backgrounds can come together and learn from one another. They plan to host community events, including free workshops and clinics, to ensure basketball is accessible to everyone.These initiatives aim to inspire the next generation of players and cultivate a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among participants. It's about building a community that values teamwork, discipline, and dedication.<h3>Looking to the Future</h3>The Friday sessions will also help us explore how Fair Club and Lights Out Basketball Academy can work together to build stronger pathways for recreation, youth leadership, coaching, and mentorship.We are grateful to Coach Ken Wade and Lights Out Basketball Academy for sharing their experience and commitment with our community. Together, we are building more than a basketball program—we are creating space for young people to grow, belong, and see new possibilities for their future.

Expanding Horizons: Fair Club's New Partnership with Lights Out Basketball Academy

<h2>From Training to Leadership: Celebrating the Volunteers Who Made Summer 2026 Possible</h2>When we began our summer program, we knew we had limited resources and a very large community need. What we did have was something equally important: young people willing to learn, families ready to participate, volunteers prepared to serve, and partners willing to open doors.By the time we gathered for our Volunteer Recognition Day, we were not simply celebrating the end of a summer program. We were celebrating the beginning of a community leadership pathway.<h3>It Started Before the Summer </h3>One of the important building blocks came through our collaboration with the City of Toronto.Through the city's recreation-to-employment training opportunity, more than 40 young people completed training and certification before our summer programming was fully underway.For us, the value of this partnership went beyond receiving a certificate.Some of the young people who participated in that training came back and volunteered with our own summer programs. They supported children, recreation activities, registration, families, and our team while gaining practical experience alongside their training.That was exactly the pathway we hoped to create:Training → Volunteering → Experience → Leadership → Employment<figure id="figure-wfv9lp48lbmtypnk3c"><img id="wfv9lp48lbmtypnk3c" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17CCcpIphPLwBz7vox4tigAxZs7L9L5Se8DvpVsKAlxT9gkkOkRbpKtlE8C2FpnY.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17CCcpIphPLwBz7vox4tigAxZs7L9L5Se8DvpVsKAlxT9gkkOkRbpKtlE8C2FpnY.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Then the community showed up.</h3>Throughout the summer, our Fair Club recreation activities and Tutoring &amp; Tigrinya program brought together children, parents, instructors, coaches, and volunteers.Our young volunteers were right in the middle of it.They helped us deliver soccer, running, volleyball, basketball, and other recreation activities. Others supported tutoring, registration, communication with families, and the many small tasks required to keep a growing community program running.This was especially meaningful because our summer program grew far beyond what we initially expected.<figure id="figure-t8gbgkq2wqmtypg2ii"><img id="t8gbgkq2wqmtypg2ii" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/b0rD4aPFBXPOkWTEUbXpb3HxvIGwdxQN15vd9Vp0zNGlBN5e9T0EsF5JjRTqXGe7.jpg" alt="volunteer teaching" title="volunteer teaching" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/b0rD4aPFBXPOkWTEUbXpb3HxvIGwdxQN15vd9Vp0zNGlBN5e9T0EsF5JjRTqXGe7.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>We were serving a large number of children and families with limited resources. Volunteers were therefore not an addition to the program—they became an important part of how the program worked.And something exciting began happening along the way.Young people who initially came to receive training were beginning to become the people helping us deliver opportunities to the next group of children.<h3>From Volunteers to Licensed Coaches</h3>Perhaps one of the most encouraging outcomes is that two of our young people are now licensed coaches.Think about what that means.They did not simply participate in an activity and leave. They moved through a pathway of training, experience, and leadership—and they are now positioned to help us continue programming into the fall.<figure id="figure-icbnt4mycpmtypqysg"><img id="icbnt4mycpmtypqysg" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2dHCB3QNzTykPSsrtMWV18HZuTqpSvMkJy46nKCsMuIspMX8Z8mQq685NJAdlaZp.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 45%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="45%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2dHCB3QNzTykPSsrtMWV18HZuTqpSvMkJy46nKCsMuIspMX8Z8mQq685NJAdlaZp.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 45%;"></figure>This is the model we want to strengthen.We want a young person who participates today to have an opportunity to volunteer tomorrow. We want the volunteer to receive training and certification. We want the trained volunteer to become a coach, tutor, or mentor. And wherever possible, we want that experience to become a pathway toward meaningful employment.This is why partnerships such as our collaboration with the city matter so much. When community organizations and public institutions work together, a certification opportunity can become much more than a one-day training session. It can become the first step in a young person's leadership and employment journey.<figure id="figure-7pgmw5k8camtypg5y5"><img id="7pgmw5k8camtypg5y5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2OZrWIUYMbQuv7EhFarVG4gi1lztTJLzzXyMEwgORjviJwlhMXTjxdNKESjDpqRK.jpg" alt="environmental volunteers" title="environmental volunteers" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2OZrWIUYMbQuv7EhFarVG4gi1lztTJLzzXyMEwgORjviJwlhMXTjxdNKESjDpqRK.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Volunteer Recognition Day: Celebrating What We Built</h3>At the end of the summer, we came together for our Volunteer Recognition Day.It was our opportunity to say something that can sometimes get lost when everyone is busy delivering programs:Thank you.Thank you to our youth volunteers.Thank you to our instructors and coaches.Thank you to the people who registered children, communicated with parents, carried equipment, organized activities, and stepped in wherever something needed to be done.And thank you to our partners and city staff who helped create opportunities that our community could build upon.But our message to the young people that evening was also very clear:Please don't consider this the end.We want you to stay involved. We want your ideas. We want you to continue your training. We want you to become our future tutors, coaches, mentors, and community leaders.<figure id="figure-ovq9tq7tsmtypxx0c"><img id="ovq9tq7tsmtypxx0c" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1145MZg9rilGFqEXOZBYHL0gxWd5dpB531yk7KpinMZB8tRrrTtp6lSEEueOKQS5.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1145MZg9rilGFqEXOZBYHL0gxWd5dpB531yk7KpinMZB8tRrrTtp6lSEEueOKQS5.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The Summer Ended. The Pathway Continues. As our summer activities came to an end, we were already thinking about fall.Our basketball programming has been confirmed at Ellesmere Community Centre, while we continue working to secure opportunities for soccer, running, and volleyball.And now, two newly licensed coaches who grew through this journey can help us move that work forward.That may be one of the most important outcomes of Summer 2026.We started the summer needing volunteers to help us serve a growing number of children.We ended the summer with young people better prepared to lead the next program themselves.That is the kind of community development we believe in.We are not simply asking:“How many children can we serve?”We are also asking:“How many young people can we prepare to serve and lead the next generation?”Our Volunteer Recognition Day celebrated an incredible summer—but more importantly, it celebrated the people who will help us build what comes next.From participant to volunteer. From volunteer to certified leader. From certified leader to coach. From opportunity to employment.This is only the beginning. 💛MyInLaw / East Africa Community Hub Society &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Celebrating the Volunteers Who Made Summer 2026 Possible

<h2>A Summer That Proved What Is Possible</h2>Few resources. Growing demand. Hundreds of moments of learning, play, connection, and belonging.When we began our Summer 2026 program, we knew there were gaps in our community. What we did not fully anticipate was just how many families were looking for the same thing: accessible opportunities for their children to learn, play, develop confidence, and belong.We started with limited resources and a simple commitment: rather than waiting until everything was perfect, we would begin with what we had.Very quickly, the community showed us why that mattered.<figure id="figure-sd57bhz2pkmtpboloj"><img id="sd57bhz2pkmtpboloj" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2ff49it1dXpW6VRF7FKPRhkBs1Ev1YfaTfVCiEBDWgDPK70PfGinIl1ZJ6WyJsLx.jpg" alt="community gathering" title="community gathering" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2ff49it1dXpW6VRF7FKPRhkBs1Ev1YfaTfVCiEBDWgDPK70PfGinIl1ZJ6WyJsLx.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>The Community Answered</h3>Our summer programming brought together two important parts of children's development: education and recreation.At McGregor Park Community Centre, our Tutoring and Tigrinya program created a space where children could strengthen their learning while remaining connected to their language and community. As participation grew, we moved into a larger room and expanded to three instructors so that children could receive better-organized support.At the same time, Fair Club brought children and families together through soccer, running, volleyball, basketball, tennis, and other physical activities.What began with more than 120 registrations continued growing throughout the summer, eventually reaching approximately 190 registered children. Some Friday activities drew close to 100 participants. Our Tigrinya classes regularly welcomed more than 30 children, supported by instructors and volunteers.These numbers mattered to us—not because we were trying to build the biggest program, but because every registration represented a family saying:“We need this.”<figure id="figure-mrlh6k84t8mtpbooud"><img id="mrlh6k84t8mtpbooud" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/bBYugtqek6P5y2XcrtFVIh8kEuykr3jSChJLdlmQDfzxInJ18x7aWzWV4CmgRM7v.jpg" alt="community gardening" title="community gardening" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/bBYugtqek6P5y2XcrtFVIh8kEuykr3jSChJLdlmQDfzxInJ18x7aWzWV4CmgRM7v.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>Doing More With Less</h2>This was not a summer program built with a large operating budget, a big staff team, or unlimited access to facilities.In many ways, it was the opposite.We had to continuously figure things out: finding affordable spaces, adjusting locations, securing permits, recruiting volunteers, coordinating instructors and coaches, communicating with parents, finding equipment, and responding when participation exceeded what we had expected.There were Fridays at Thomson Memorial Park, tutoring Tuesdays at McGregor Park, a memorable evening at Centennial Recreation Centre, basketball opportunities through our partners, and special activities at Brichmount Stadium.Sometimes plans changed. Sometimes a space was unavailable. Sometimes demand was greater than our capacity.But we kept going.And the community kept showing up.That became one of the most important lessons of our summer: limited resources do not mean limited potential.<figure id="figure-gh36cty81dmtpchywp"><img id="gh36cty81dmtpchywp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1145MZg9rilGFqEXOZBYHL0gxWd5dpB531yk7KpinMZB8tRrrTtp6lSEEueOKQS5.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 60%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="60%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1145MZg9rilGFqEXOZBYHL0gxWd5dpB531yk7KpinMZB8tRrrTtp6lSEEueOKQS5.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 60%;"></figure><h2>More Than Tutoring. More Than Sports.</h2>A child running around a field may simply look like a child playing.A young person helping at registration may simply look like a volunteer.A parent bringing their child to a Tigrinya class may simply look like another family attending a program.But together, these moments tell a much bigger story.We saw children trying activities they had not experienced before. We saw running become increasingly popular. We saw friendships forming across families. We saw parents becoming more engaged. We saw young people stepping forward to volunteer and help younger children.Most importantly, we began seeing a pathway emerge.A young person who volunteers today can become a coach tomorrow.A student helping a younger child can become a tutor or mentor.A child participating in recreation can eventually become a youth leader.This is why our goal is not simply to deliver activities for the community. We want to develop the people within our community who will eventually lead them.<figure id="figure-mzxdjhrhmqmtpc69gk"><img id="mzxdjhrhmqmtpc69gk" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8MIKIEycylTpKmEPQEikQxAJFTobEIPe0Es1qBQV6FJVi1zKIJZJ8AJldULWjE6H.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 25% undefined%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="25%" data-positionY="undefined%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h2>It Took a Community</h2>None of this happened because of one organization.Our instructors gave their time and knowledge. Coaches encouraged children who were discovering new abilities. Volunteers registered participants, organized activities, communicated with families, carried equipment, and stepped in wherever they were needed.Parents trusted us with their children and continued showing up.Our young volunteers became one of the most encouraging parts of the entire summer. Their involvement reminded us that community programs can also become pathways to leadership, mentorship, training, and eventually employment.We are also deeply grateful to the community centers, city staff, recreation professionals, organizations, and partners who helped us access spaces, training, and opportunities throughout the summer.Every contribution mattered.<h3>The Importance of Resourcefulness</h3>With financial constraints, creativity became the driving force behind the community's success. Residents donated materials, the City of Toronto and LSJC donated, and skilled individuals volunteered their time. This resourcefulness ensured that every contribution, no matter how small, was valued and utilized effectively.<figure id="figure-ny6s91dihmtpcdjq9"><img id="ny6s91dihmtpcdjq9" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29VzxUIUiCALj2k8B4y250iUN8QyOtcNW7ZacJRxXo18gEtlWOEGnwnlkRO20P0L.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29VzxUIUiCALj2k8B4y250iUN8QyOtcNW7ZacJRxXo18gEtlWOEGnwnlkRO20P0L.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>Then We Celebrated</h2>As August came to an end, we had something worth celebrating.We celebrated our children and families after weeks of tutoring and recreation. Then, on September 3, our team gathered for a Volunteer Recognition Day.It was an opportunity to look around the room and recognize the people behind the numbers.The volunteers. The instructors. The coaches. The parents. The partners. And especially the young people who chose to serve their community.Our message to them was simple:Please don't let this be the end.We want our youth volunteers to stay connected, continue developing their skills, bring forward their ideas, and pursue future opportunities in tutoring, coaching, recreation, education, employment, and community leadership.Because the greatest outcome of this summer may not be how many activities we delivered.It may be who is now ready to lead the next one.<figure id="figure-maypokrpq8mtpc7g5o"><img id="maypokrpq8mtpc7g5o" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8x0x7cnDz5awjRUTRu1KyehH60mdWiuxMDyi2HxiiiItCeZflH7OL5NwpnjVSA8J.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8x0x7cnDz5awjRUTRu1KyehH60mdWiuxMDyi2HxiiiItCeZflH7OL5NwpnjVSA8J.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>Summer Is Over. The Work Isn't.</h2>The overwhelming participation this summer gave us something much more valuable than a successful program—it gave us evidence.Families want accessible educational support.Children need affordable recreation.Parents want spaces where their children can learn while maintaining connections to language and community.Young people want meaningful opportunities to contribute.And communities can mobilize tremendous capacity when they are given even modest resources and genuine opportunities.As we move into the fall, basketball activities have already been confirmed at Ellesmere Community Centre. We are working to secure opportunities for soccer, running, and volleyball while also exploring how our educational programming can continue and connect families with additional learning opportunities.We began this summer asking:Can we create something meaningful with the resources we have?Our community answered that question for us.Yes.But it also left us with a much bigger question:If this is what our community can accomplish with so little, imagine what we could build with sustained investment, strong partnerships, and the right resources.Summer 2026 was not the end of a program.It was proof of what is possible—and the beginning of what comes next.With gratitude to every child, parent, volunteer, instructor, coach, partner, and community member who made this summer possible.My InLaw / East Africa Community Hub Society 💛#FairClub #TutoringClub #EastScarborough #YouthDevelopment #CommunityStrong #MyInLaw #SocialJustice #CommunityOwned #EastAfricanCommunity #BlackCommunity &nbsp; <img id="dxsznainnemtrhtgbo" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/33AaHPgFJ6egdNWcrhjtPVqokxTJPUVkD8Wod6NT3Az5VZeoClb4h5Q3wLd9uWXJ.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/33AaHPgFJ6egdNWcrhjtPVqokxTJPUVkD8Wod6NT3Az5VZeoClb4h5Q3wLd9uWXJ.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"> &nbsp;

A Summer of Possibilities: How Community Spirit Transformed Limited Resources into Success

<h2>From Community Voice to Institutional Engagement</h2>We are excited to share that MyInLaw was selected to participate in the inaugural cohort of the Leading Social Justice Collective (LSJC), a leadership initiative created through a partnership between the University of Toronto School of Cities and United Way Greater Toronto.Being selected into such a competitive program was both an honour and a reflection of the important work happening within our community. Our project was recognized for addressing real social justice challenges affecting newcomer, Black, and working-class families — particularly around youth access, recreation, leadership development, family engagement, and long-term opportunity.<figure id="figure-sfcc2el5g4mpoerccu"><img id="sfcc2el5g4mpoerccu" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/165Eb9DDhBY5Wc0IZJdrJ9DY6SfpinVFlPCveWZ1dqWHv95LeZy9WWjHbcl5mh4t.jpg" alt="artificial intelligence" title="artificial intelligence" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/165Eb9DDhBY5Wc0IZJdrJ9DY6SfpinVFlPCveWZ1dqWHv95LeZy9WWjHbcl5mh4t.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Through LSJC, we had the opportunity to connect with inspiring leaders, organizations, educators, and changemakers from across Toronto. The program challenged us to think beyond individual programs and toward long-term systems change rooted in collaboration, community engagement, and collective impact.What started as conversations around recreation access and youth opportunities has now evolved into a broader vision focused on building pathways for children, youth, and families through:youth leadership, recreation and mentorship, tutoring and family engagement, and workforce development opportunities.<img id="xdxaa11culmpoerf8c" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16 / 9;" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1639762681485-074b7f938ba0?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw5fHxibG9ja2NoYWluJTIwdGVjaG5vbG9neXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3Nzk5MDcxNDh8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="blockchain technology" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1639762681485-074b7f938ba0?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw5fHxibG9ja2NoYWluJTIwdGVjaG5vbG9neXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3Nzk5MDcxNDh8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;">Over the past several months, we have strengthened partnerships, expanded our community outreach, collaborated with city and community stakeholders, and continued building a model that places lived experience and community voices at the center of the work.Most importantly, LSJC reminded us that meaningful change happens when communities are not simply included in conversations — but empowered to help serve them.As we move forward, we remain committed to building inclusive opportunities for youth and families while continuing to advocate for systems that are more accessible, equitable, and community-driven.<figure id="figure-dzxz6yabwmpoeriy4"><img id="dzxz6yabwmpoeriy4" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/32leeGTzx56lHtW6ai0JotyobjM5dpsspGQI3LkIf9rWvXGsXX5P9wKtMRiSeQFv.png" alt="green technology" title="green technology" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 25%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="25%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/32leeGTzx56lHtW6ai0JotyobjM5dpsspGQI3LkIf9rWvXGsXX5P9wKtMRiSeQFv.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 25%;"></figure><h3>What LSJC Is Helping Us Do</h3>The LSJC program supports teams to:Build a Theory of Change Map the ecosystem and power structures Design and test a pilot intervention Develop a sustainable model for long-term impact This means we are not working alone—we are learning, testing, and building alongside other leaders committed to social justice across the GTA.Overcoming Resistance to Change Resistance is a natural response to change, often fueled by fear of the unknown. However, understanding the root cause of this resistance can help in overcoming it. Recognizing that change is a necessary part of progress allows us to confront these fears more effectively.Communication is key in this process. By openly discussing concerns and potential impacts, we can ease anxieties and work toward solutions that benefit everyone involved.Join Us! We invite families, youth, partners, and community leaders to be part of this journey.Whether you are:A parent looking for support A youth interested in leadership opportunities A partner organization seeking collaboration There is a place for you in this work. Together, we are building something bigger than a program.We are building pathways, equity, and opportunity.We are deeply grateful to the LSJC team, University of Toronto School of Cities, United Way Greater Toronto, our partners, volunteers, youth, and families who continue to believe in this vision.This journey is only beginning — and we are excited for what comes next.#MyInLaw #SocialJustice #CommunityOwned #EastAfricanCommunity #BlackCommunity

From Community Conversations to Collective Change: Our Journey with LSJC

This past weekend marked a powerful milestone for our community — one that reminded us what becomes possible when youth, parents, community organizations, and the City come together with a shared vision for empowerment and opportunity.<h2>The Essence of Empowerment</h2>In collaboration with the City of Toronto, MyInLaw was proud to support the delivery of a recreational-to-employment pathway program designed to engage and inspire East African youth across GTA.Over 40 youth participated in the weekend sessions, gaining exposure to training opportunities, leadership development, employment pathways, and community engagement. What stood out most was not simply the attendance, but the energy, excitement, and hope that filled the room.<figure id="figure-2th06z4oq5nmpodfc38"><img id="2th06z4oq5nmpodfc38" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17CCcpIphPLwBz7vox4tigAxZs7L9L5Se8DvpVsKAlxT9gkkOkRbpKtlE8C2FpnY.jpg" alt="community workshop" title="community workshop" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/17CCcpIphPLwBz7vox4tigAxZs7L9L5Se8DvpVsKAlxT9gkkOkRbpKtlE8C2FpnY.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Many of these young people came eager to learn, connect, and discover opportunities that could shape their futures. The program created a welcoming environment where youth felt seen, encouraged, and motivated to think beyond limitations and toward long-term growth.At the same time, another important conversation was taking place within our community.During the same weekend, our Parent Workshop brought together over 50 parents for an honest and meaningful discussion about raising children in North America, supporting holistic development, strengthening family communication, and helping youth grow with confidence and purpose.<h3>Workshops and Learning Sessions</h3>The workshop reminded us that youth development does not happen in isolation. When parents are supported, informed, and engaged, children are better positioned to thrive both at home and within the broader community.This weekend demonstrated something deeply important:When youth are given access to opportunity, they show up. When parents are given space to learn and engage, they also show up.These moments matter because they build trust, belonging, confidence, and connection — especially within communities that often face barriers navigating systems and accessing opportunities.<figure id="figure-v81uymkmzmpodggtu"><img id="v81uymkmzmpodggtu" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35Yl9i04Kebd4E3OvLgI1YaSwCtuCVL7Gpazr5aj19DWJYNWW17E6l2KtsAQtjuF.jpg" alt="community service" title="community service" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h3>Celebrating Success and Looking Ahead</h3>We are deeply grateful to the City of Toronto, the facilitators, volunteers, parents, youth, and community partners who helped make this weekend possible. Special appreciation goes to the City recreation staff and community leaders who worked collaboratively with us to create spaces where our youth and families could feel welcomed and supported. Join the MovementTo the parents in our community: thank you for continuing to encourage your children to participate, learn, and grow. A child’s future is shaped not only through school, but also through mentorship, recreation, leadership, training, and community support.To our youth: continue showing up, continue learning, and continue believing in your potential. Your future is bright, and your community believes in you.This weekend was not the finish line — it was only the beginning.More opportunities are coming.

Empowering Futures: A Weekend of Growth and Community Impact

<h2>A meaningful and inspiring evening for our community.</h2>Over 50 parents joined our virtual workshop on Raising Children in North America, led by Senait Litchmore, RP, where families engaged in important conversations around parenting, communication, teenage development, culture, identity, and emotional wellbeing.The strong participation and honest discussions highlighted the growing need for safe community spaces that support both parents and youth. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to this important conversation.Together, we continue building stronger families, confident children, and healthier communities.<h2>Summary Parenting Emotional Regulation Workshop</h2>Yonatan introduced a parenting workshop focused on emotional regulation, communication tools, and strengthening parent-child connections, featuring therapist Senait Lichmore as the presenter. Senait began her presentation by explaining that parents need to regulate their emotions before effectively parenting their children, using the example of a tired parent reacting harshly to children's questions about dinner. She introduced the concept of the "connected brain" versus the "stress survival brain," explaining that when parents are connected to their mind and body, they can respond thoughtfully rather than react emotionally to their children's requests.<figure id="figure-5q72ozdmtmpmynskx"><img id="5q72ozdmtmpmynskx" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/3sencYUPMFQruCEQX0Wckzlck1jqhBmEfJHLwEBNNNPvHcgePYKfzVrL8zNjWi3P.png" alt="parenting workshop" title="parenting workshop" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/3sencYUPMFQruCEQX0Wckzlck1jqhBmEfJHLwEBNNNPvHcgePYKfzVrL8zNjWi3P.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Stress Management in Parenting</h3>Senait led a discussion on managing stress and survival brain responses, emphasizing the importance of recognizing when one is in a stress survival state and the impact of past experiences on current parenting. She encouraged participants to be kind to themselves and focus on showing themselves grace rather than seeing past traumas as defining their parenting abilities. The conversation then moved to discussing triggers, with Senait providing examples of situations where responses might not match the actual situation, such as a child spilling milk or not following instructions immediately.<h3>Parenting Triggers and Responses</h3>Senait discussed the concept of triggers in parenting, explaining how past experiences can cause intense reactions to seemingly minor situations, using examples like children talking back or spilling milk. She noted that triggers can happen even when calm and stressed that the main difference is how they are reacted to. Senait wrapped up the discussion by introducing the topic of connecting with children before correction, indicating a deeper exploration of this concept in the future.<h2>Effective Parenting Connection Strategies</h2>Senait led a discussion on effective parenting strategies, focusing on connecting with children before correcting their behavior. She provided examples of how to handle situations when a child delays listening or responds disrespectfully, emphasizing the importance of connecting with the child's emotions first before addressing the behavior. Senait also discussed the need for parents to regulate their emotions and model healthy coping mechanisms for their children to observe and learn from.<h3>Brain Development Across Age Groups</h3>Senait discussed brain development across different age groups, explaining that young children (0-7) rely heavily on adult calmness for regulation, while school-age children (7-12) are learning consequences but still need significant guidance and repetition. Senait noted that teenagers have an overactive emotional brain focused on identity and belonging, with brain development continuing until around age 22. She emphasized that while teenagers may appear adult-like, they still require strong connection and support during this formative period.<figure id="figure-7b3zefrs9mpmyo0ap"><img id="7b3zefrs9mpmyo0ap" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1548705085-101177834f47?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMnx8eW91dGh8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzc5MjU2MTU4fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="six silhouette of people jumping during sunrise" title="six silhouette of people jumping during sunrise" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1548705085-101177834f47?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMnx8eW91dGh8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzc5MjU2MTU4fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Parenting Strategies and Cultural Approaches</h3>Senait discussed parenting strategies, emphasizing the importance of building strong connections with children during ages 7–12 to prepare for the teenage years. She explained that teenagers need respect, listening, and leadership from parents, while cautioning against agreeing with everything children want. Senait also addressed the cultural tension between shame-based parenting from their home country and the more independent approach in Canada, encouraging a shift toward guidance-based parenting that focuses on actions, encouragement, and curiosity rather than shame.<h3>Parenting Shame Reduction Strategies </h3>Senait and Samrawit discussed strategies to counter shame in parenting, including separating problems from children's identity, showing kindness instead of humiliation, using gentle tones, and maintaining emotional closeness even during difficult moments. They emphasized the importance of avoiding negative labels and rigid language, instead using a growth mindset approach and being flexible in their communication. The discussion emphasized the significance of repairing and apologizing for mistakes made in parenting.<h3>Parenting Workshop on Discipline Strategies </h3>Senait conducted a parenting workshop addressing various questions from the audience about child discipline, cultural sharing of information, and managing teenage behavior. She advised focusing on connection rather than discipline, particularly with teenagers who naturally push boundaries while developing their identity. The discussion included specific guidance on when and how to share information with children, with Senait explaining that decisions should be based on whether the information serves the child's needs rather than the parent's comfort. The workshop concluded with Senait encouraging community building as an important protective factor for children's development.<h2>Building a Supportive Community</h2>The workshop emphasized the value of community in raising children. Connecting with other parents, sharing experiences, and seeking support can significantly enhance the parenting journey. Community resources, such as local groups and online forums, can provide additional support and encouragement.Raising children in North America is a rewarding yet demanding task. By focusing on communication, balance, independence, technology, emotional well-being, and community, parents can better equip their children to thrive in today's world. The insights from the parenting workshop serve as a valuable guide for navigating the challenges and joys of modern parenting.

Raising Children in North America: Insights from a Parenting Workshop

MyInLaw

MyInLaw serves as a pivotal informational platform, dedicated to connecting the East African community in Ontario, particularly single mothers and newcomers, with a wealth of free resources and support services. Our mission transcends traditional service provision; instead, we illuminate paths to empowerment through strategic collaborations and partnerships with various agencies. By curating and sharing vital resources, we aim to uplift every member of our community, guiding them toward success, well-being.

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