We believe that one of the keys to cultivating a love of lifelong learning is to create educational spaces that are as fun for youth as they are stimulating.

That is accomplished by providing free access to computer labs, multilingual libraries and other educational resources. Such tools empower marginalized young people by granting them opportunities for exploration and recreation that they would not otherwise have.

These resources complement the educational experiences we are providing to youth outside of the facilities, allowing them to home in on their interests and further develop their curiosity.

To make the most of these investments and ensure that the educational spaces remain as effective as the day they were opened, we sustain them with ongoing material and training support.

A large part of giving at-risk youth the essential tools to thrive and become effective contributors in their communities is providing training programs on skills and competencies that are essential for today’s study and work environments. 
 
Technology is a core element as many industries now place a high priority on training programs that provide opportunities for youth to interact with and learn about information literacy, web search, and technology and its applications.

Furthermore, our volunteer and leadership training programs empower participants to make positive contributions to their communities. These include self-defence programs that build participants’ confidence and strengthen their communication skills through conflict resolution.

By making such programs enjoyable for youth, we provide a break from the pressures of poverty they are experiencing every day. Here it is shown that interests and dreams can be translated into successful careers, all while learning and developing the skills and aptitudes needed to become the future leaders of our communities.

Art and athletics are key components of most cultures, and are essential elements in fostering creativity, healthy living and the sense of belonging that strengthens communities.

We believe it is important that all members of our communities are given equal opportunities to bond over shared experiences, and don’t feel limited or excluded for reasons beyond their control.

Youth engagement has been shown to be the most influential factor for fostering success in this area. Volunteering opportunities not only fill the need for achieving global citizenship for the individual, they also help create connections and build networks. Social justice initiatives give youth a voice in shaping their communities, and a reason to invest in their towns and neighbours. These experiences create memories that last a lifetime, and foster mastery that bolsters self-confidence, wellbeing and a sense of identity.

We want our communities’ youth to thrive, so it is imperative that we work tirelessly to break down the socioeconomic barriers that hold so many of them back.

We provide youth with access to educational spaces and resources, inspire them to explore and discover, and encourage them to follow their passions and dreams. Their newfound drive then fosters the socioeconomic conditions that generate a positive feedback loop, consequently leading to upward social mobility.

Not satisfied with simply letting our investments in communities slowly create returns, we reinvest proceeds to fund internships in trades, assist in the establishment of startups and create employment opportunities. These reinvestments target the goal of social mobility from both ends: mitigating personal circumstances and providing credentials while cultivating company connections, thereby creating improved chances and increased choices.

Children can’t thrive if their basic needs are not being met.

That’s why we take great care in connecting our supporters’ generous in-kind donations of life’s essentials with the communities that need them most, whether it’s conducting a food drive at Thanksgiving in support of our ongoing efforts to combat hunger, collecting donations of new clothing as part of our broader goal of poverty reduction or the distribution of children’s toys during the holidays.

Just as essential to children’s future success is their health. Unfortunately, many communities lack the resources necessary to properly examine and care for children’s health needs. Part of the humanitarian aid we deliver includes dental and vision care programs for some of the world’s most vulnerable children.

We at the Equal Opportunity Community Initiative believe that access to these basic necessities is a fundamental human right, not a privilege afforded to a select few. Alleviating poverty is complex but not impossible; the emergency supports we facilitate address vulnerable community needs in a way that honours the recipients’ dignity. Each of us deserves to be treated with respect, regardless of circumstances beyond our control.