Another summer, another successful Rookie League season

The summer day camp has brought happiness and play to TCHC youth for more than three decades.

As summer 2024 came to an end, so did Toronto Community Housing (TCHC)'s flagship summer program: Rookie League, a day camp for children ages six to 12. Through July and August, the program hosted more than 400 kids from 15 communities to teach them teamwork, leadership and fair play.

Chanelle Wright, Supervisor, Program Supports and Implementation at TCHC, has been involved with Rookie League since 2018. Her experience with the camp this summer and in summers past have been extremely meaningful.

“My favorite part of Rookie League is being involved in the different activities and stepping away from administrative tasks to engage with the kids and staff,” said Chanelle. “The program’s core values include bringing kids together, providing a safe camp, minimizing barriers, and offering unique programs and lunch free of charge for seven weeks.”

Victoria Corrado, a TCHC Tenant and Community Service Program Coordinator

Victoria Corrado (right), a TCHC Tenant and Community Service Program Coordinator with another program coordinator

As they grow up, many campers return as staff members, which was the case with Victoria Corrado, a TCHC Tenant and Community Service Program Coordinator. Victoria grew up with Rookie League after joining when she was just six years old. This summer, Victoria supported the program’s “Opening Day” at the Toronto Zoo. Featuring full access to the Zoo and their waterpark, Splash Island, the children participated in scavenger hunts, face painting, arts and crafts, and more.

All in all, nearly 100 staff and volunteers helped launch this year’s Rookie League camp, including Luke Kitchen, a Senior Program Leader.

Luke said that keeping youth engaged during the summer with free programming and lunch is important. He recalls a camper who struggled academically, but through Rookie League, they gained the confidence and determination to succeed in their next school year. That camper is now enrolled in their school’s Advance Placement (AP) program, Luke said proudly.

Throughout the season, campers met new friends in their respective communities. Campers also went on field trips that broadened their horizons, like to Woodbine Beach, The Bubble, Toronto Zoo, Riverdale Farm, High Park, and to the movies.

Rookie League participant Georgina, from the St. James Town community, said that playing baseball was one of her favourite camp activities this summer. Her best memory was when her team won a game. Having participated in the program from 2018 to 2019, she cherishes the fun times. Her advice to fellow participants is simple: “Have fun, and don’t give up.”

Chanelle finds it very rewarding to see the transformation that takes place with campers.

“The kids start off quiet but by the end of the summer, they are earning awards, achieving goals, and becoming more interactive,” she said.

Although the days can be long and tiring, seeing young children look up to their mentors and coaches is what keeps Chanelle and her staff going.

For more information on Rookie League and other youth programs, contact the Active Living team at ActiveLiving@torontohousing.ca or visit torontohousing.ca/rookie-league.