The Lake Trail Community Education Society needs help from the community after an unexpected funding loss.
The organization has launched an emergency fundraising campaign to help keep youth and family programs running when school starts in September. The goal is to raise $50,000 before then, which will help keep the free after-school programs, youth mentorship, community garden, food security initiatives, and inclusive community events running.
"Every child, youth, and adult who participates in our programs is a part of our vibrant community, said Anna Rambow, the Society鈥檚 Executive Director. 鈥淭he idea of reducing or cancelling programs when connections and a sense of belonging are so needed, is unthinkable.鈥�
The society recently learned that it won't be receiving key grants from two major funders, a loss which represents a large portion of the society's operating budget.
Every year, there are hundreds of students and community members who participate in its programming. A release from the society says that these programs "foster connection, learning, and resilience.
"Whether it鈥檚 youth learning to cook, neighbours growing food together, or families gathering to create art and play in the gym, the Society has become a community lifeline," the release says. "For many young people, LTCES programs offer more than activities. They provide a safe, welcoming space to build life skills, receive mentorship, and feel a sense of belonging."
Rambow added that the impacts will be felt beyond the school community as well.
鈥淚nclusive community events, gardening and food initiatives, and inter-generational gatherings may be reduced or paused. The ripple effects of this funding loss could last well beyond this year, threatening the momentum we鈥檝e built over time,鈥� she said.
The organization operates in partnership with the school district, and uses school facilities and outdoor spaces, so nearly every donated dollar goes directly toward staffing and program delivery, rather than overhead. Funds raised through the emergency campaign will help sustain programming until grants can be re-secured in spring 2026.
鈥淭his kind of loss would be hard for any small organization to absorb but we are resilient,鈥� Rambow said. 鈥淪tudents and families know we are always going to be here for them. However, given the challenges we face this year, we appreciate any level of support to help us keep investing in the health and well-being of our community.鈥�
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