360°kids strengthens volunteer program

On May 3, 360°kids celebrated the growth of its volunteer program, thanks to generous funding from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Resilient Communities Fund.

At the event, MPP Billy Pang met with the volunteers, staff, and guests who were gathered to mark the impact of a two-year, $158,700 Resilient Communities Fund grant, which was awarded in 2023. Thanks to the grant, 360°kids was able to hire a Volunteer Coordinator, and cover some program, equipment and administration costs that have helped rebuild volunteer capacity following the challenges of the pandemic.

“Through the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s $158,700 Resilient Communities Fund grant, 360°kids has strengthened its volunteer program to better support at-risk and homeless youth across York Region,” said Pang. “With this generous grant, 360°kids was able to enhance its services, ensuring more vulnerable youth have access to the stability, guidance, and resources they need to build a brighter future.”

The event featured remarks from Shanta Sundarason, 360°kids’ Volunteer Coordinator, who has been leading the revitalization of the program. Through her efforts, the organization has expanded opportunities for community involvement, ensuring that volunteers are welcomed, supported, and given meaningful ways to make a difference.

“Volunteers are the heart of everything we do,” Sundarason said. “This funding has allowed us to build a stronger, more organized volunteer program where everyone who steps forward knows their contribution matters. Together, we’re creating pathways of hope and opportunity for youth across York Region.”

Through the expanded volunteer program, individuals from the community now have more opportunities to get involved—whether through mentoring, tutoring, preparing meals, organizing donation drives, or supporting events. These contributions help 360°kids deliver essential programs focused on housing, education, employment, and health and well-being, reaching over 3,000 youth annually.

To learn more about volunteering at 360°kids, visit www.360kids.ca/get-involved/ways-to- volunteer/