Tobermory community celebrates opening of the Youth Spot
The new community space invests in the needs of the youth.
Members of the Tobermory community, along with TCHC and local Councillor Anthony Perruzza, participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 19, 2025, marking the unveiling of the Youth Spot at 15 Tobermory Drive. Designed in consultation with youth from the neighbourhood, Youth Spot is intended to create a safe space for them to gather and connect with community agencies.
Members of the Tobermory Youth Committee with Community Services Coordinator Stephan George.
The launch event included remarks from TCHC, members of the youth committee, and Councillor Perruzza. It was also an opportunity for the community to connect with local agencies, including the Black Creek Community Health Centre, Caribbean African Canadian Social Services, and the Jane/Finch Centre. Most importantly, it provided a sneak-peek into the newly renovated space.
The Youth Spot’s main room is a cozy, inviting environment. It is outfitted with soft lighting, games and comfortable seating. The space was transformed with the support of Building UP, which led the capital repair renovations. TCHC’s Safer Communities team purchased the furniture and equipment for the room as part of the Violence Reduction Program.
Tyvell, a member of Tobermory’s youth committee, spoke about the positive impact the Youth Spot will have on the community. “The [Youth Spot] means a lot to us,” said Tyvell. “It’s the beginning of something new for the youth living in Tobermory. The space gives us time during the week to build skills and knowledge that we can use in a workplace.”
The concept of the Youth Spot was born in response to the community's desire to bring resources and support directly into the community. It also answered the youth's desire to have a place they can call their own. The location will focus on inviting community partners to run programs and workshops that will help address youth-specific needs within the Tobermory community.
The renovation completed in partnership with TCHC and Building UP.
Jamil, a youth leader who has recently moved into the community, shared his experience with the youth committee at Tobermory. “I’m so grateful to the staff and everyone who has supported us youth,” he said. “The resources and job opportunities that are being shared with me are the reason I have a job now.”
“This is TCHC’s investment in the youth,” Community Services Coordinator Stephan George explained. “The space will give the youth the opportunity to be better connected with community agencies and TCHC.”
The Youth Spot at 15 Tobermory Drive is the first to launch, and TCHC plans to open more spaces for TCHC youth in the West Region.
