Linda Rohr, Trevor LeDrew, Vincent GeorgieTrevor LeDrew of IG Wealth Management (centre), presents a cheque to fund a youth empowerment program to dean of human kinetics Linda Rohr and Vincent Georgie, acting associate vice-president, external.

Program to give neighbourhood youth access to sports facilities

Jayce Robinson is excited at the prospect of trying the courts in the Toldo Lancer Centre.

About to enter Grade 10 at Westview Freedom Academy Secondary School, he likes to play basketball and volleyball, and was on hand Wednesday for the announcement of a program that may see him take advantage of the state-of-the-art facilities.

Financial planning firm IG Wealth Management donated $20,000 to fund the 12-month Empowerment Program, which will allow communities and youth groups in west Windsor to apply for free access to the Toldo Lancer Centre.

“It’s really cool, actually,” Robinson enthused before setting off to tour the building. “It’s definitely something I would love to use.”

Linda Rohr, dean of the Faculty of Human Kinetics, welcomes the program: “It will enable us to provide free access to the community” to the centre’s amenities, which include a gymnasium, badminton courts, pool, and walking track, as well as the Dennis Fairall Fieldhouse and Alumni Stadium.

IG is thrilled to support the program, says the company’s regional vice-president, Trevor LeDrew.

“We know this initiative will help youth gain access to quality sport and recreation and develop confidence which is integral to building financial and overall well-being.”

Representatives of partnering community agencies Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Sandwich Teen Action Group, and the United Way also attended the Wednesday event.