It is bittersweet to announce that as of this month we have left our indoor youth space at 1430 Birchmount Rd.
In November of last year, we took possession of the first programming location that was truly our own. With help from this community, we got a skatepark up and running in less than a month. But more than a place to skate, it was a hub for people of all ages, where everyone belonged. Since then we’ve hosted indoor lesson programming, a community marketplace, youth council meetings, a sushi-making class, a personal development workshop for teens, donation drives for people experiencing homelessness, and so much more.
Due to COVID, we made the decision to leave the space and focus on our outdoor programming and social initiatives for the current season. I say this is bittersweet, because even though a lot of love and energy went into making this a safe, inclusive, and fun place for everyone, we are also lucky to have the option to withdraw and still keep Impact active and healthy.
There have been other organizations and small businesses that we know who have suffered during this time, some of whom have had to close permanently. We’ve been blessed with the opportunity and the means to shift our activities in a way that allows us to continue to serve, and for that we are so grateful.
None of us know what the future holds, but it has been an honor to work and co-create with all the kids, youth, and adults who came through the doors at our Birchmount Road location, and we thank you as we look forward to the next chapter of Impact.
Appreciation and gratitude for all of your love and support! ❤️