Teaching kids how to reframe the narrative.
From hosting basketball tournaments in communities that have never seen one before to inspiring kids to join run clubs when they’ve never laced up a running shoe – we host non-traditional educational experiences.
“One on One” is more than just a program; it’s a transformative movement focused on empowering youth from underserved communities through immersive outdoor experiences. Twice a year, the initiative facilitates two distinct trips—one for boys and one for girls—to various Canadian cities. These trips serve as a crucial focus on mental well-being, fostering trust, vulnerability, and love among participants, many of whom have never experienced air travel before.
With a dedicated emphasis on individuals aged 16-17, a critical stage of personal development, “One on One” provides seasoned mentorship, exposure to new perspectives, and the confidence to chart unique life paths. The program aims to expose these young individuals to the transformative power of exploring the outdoors, providing a rare opportunity for those who have spent their lives surrounded by concrete walls to experience the wonders of the natural world. Ultimately, the initiative seeks to nurture the next generation of environmental leaders while fostering community cohesion and promoting the importance of mental well-being.
A transformative 12-week initiative deeply rooted in the founding ethos of Kickback, emphasizing an “each one, teach one” model. Each year, we carefully select 10 youth through a rigorous application process, providing them with the necessary tools to initiate meaningful change within their communities and comprehend the far-reaching impacts of their actions.
Within this program, these young ambassadors are not only housed but also inspired to become visionary community leaders, surpassing the limits of their imagination. Engaging in meaningful dialogues with experts from various disciplines they come to understand that the $500 token of gratitude, though significant, pales in comparison to the immeasurable value of the guidance and conversations that shape their journey. These emerging leaders seamlessly integrate their communities into the fabric of Kickback, creating a lasting and substantial impact.
KBRC, our weekly run club, brings together over 80 community members weekly for 20 weeks during the summer, simultaneously in Scarborough and Downtown Toronto, expanding our community impact. This platform fosters mutual mentorship, providing relatable role models for youth and meaningful connections for mentors.
For those facing challenges, KBRC serves as a vital support system, nurturing a sense of belonging and well-being. Through each run, participants build connections, explore the city, and leave with refreshed minds and bodies, finding joy, mentorship, and confidence at KBRC. This engagement has provided youth with the opportunity to participate in marathons in LA, Montreal, and Toronto, opening doors to new horizons.
Flag Football has turned out to be more than a program. Cleats are expensive and unjustifiable for most families. The kids in Flag football have become close friends, whether off the field, at the high school they were recruited to, or to play on Toronto Thunder. The program is grounds for discovering talent and providing kids with an outlet to enjoy each other during the summer months when there isn’t much to do. This program keeps our youth out of trouble, and our instructors can personally connect with them so that it feels like family every Friday throughout the summer.
Kickback Coach Shemeik gave me confidence in my football skills, which are improving a lot.
It helped me win my school a football championship this year.— Neter Hussey, Age 13
Kickback Girls Basketball, an immersive 8-week program catering to girls aged 15-17, from Scarborough, who play at rep level. Dedicated to providing elite coaching, our program integrates rejuvenating yoga, mindfulness sessions, and insights from leading women in the basketball industry to showcase what basketball looks like at the next level.
Acknowledging the recent decline in girls’ participation in sports post-pandemic, we are committed to providing a nurturing space for these young athletes to foster their growth and an opportunity to thrive. Through our comprehensive approach, we aim to empower these girls to not only excel in basketball but also in their personal and academic endeavors, fostering a resilient and confident generation of young female athletes.
“Kickback gave me opportunities to play basketball at a higher level, thanks to the summer girls basketball program.”
– Ruth Asdesanya, Age 12
Through this program, youth from various neighborhoods across the city gather to engage in the powerful experience of watching and analyzing meaningful films. This program in collaboration with TIFF grants these young individuals access to resources they never knew were available, opening their eyes to the possibilities within the world of filmmaking. With the aid of school buses ensuring a safe journey, youth from different areas of the city have the opportunity to come together, fostering a sense of unity and shared understanding.
This program serves as a bridge, highlighting the common ground that unites us all, while also providing a unique avenue for youth to gain valuable insights into the world around them through the art of dissecting film. Additionally, each screening is followed by a guided Q&A session with industry professionals, offering an invaluable opportunity for the youth to learn more about the power of storytelling and filmmaking.
Week after week, aspiring photographers are guided by industry professionals, taking on diverse assignments to refine their craft and emerge as the city’s next generation of sports photographers. Through this program, they not only hone their technical skills but also learn the art of effective sharing and communication.
As a result, they are guided to create their own portfolios on their websites that stands as a testament to their growth and achievements, distinguishing them as a unique cohort of talented young photographers. Upon completion of the program, all participants are provided with paid work opportunities with recognizable brands allowing them to continue expanding their work portfolios, fostering a pathway for their future success in the field..
