The Ontario Trillium Foundation funded a 3 year project (2011-2014) to increase partnership and network development, facilitate public education and best practices and increase the quality and quantity of out-of-school-time programs in Toronto.
Partnership & Network Development
The Coalition members:
- Developed partnerships with key stakeholders such as the municipal provincial government and municipal departments representatives.
- Provided opportunities to share information, knowledge exchange and resources.
Community Engagement & Public Education
- Increased knowledge of middle childhood growth and development and the value of out-of-school-time programs.
- Developed and offered workshops, conferences, events and resources to parents/guardians and agency staff in each of the city’s four quadrants to promote best practices.
- Facilitated the development of parents’ and community organizations’ ability to campaign on issues affecting children 6 to 12 years and their families using a community development and capacity building approach.
- Advocated for and facilitated quality standards in out-of-school-time programs and services (e.g. High Five, Toronto Childcare Operating Criteria).
- Created an inventory/overview of existing programs, services and tools for the purpose of educating parents and community.