The members of the Kiwanis Kanata-Stittsville Club are passionate about making our community a better place for children and youth through the unique and innovative service projects offered by the club. In February, 2024, the Kiwanis made this happen, with the opening of the first Stittsville Youth Centre. Step forward two years and the Centre has been a successful addition for Stittsville youth – recently renamed the Home Bosses Youth Centre (HBYC), thanks to the sponsorship provided by The Home Bosses Real Estate Team.
The HBYC provides a facility where youth from the community can come together in a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment on the second floor of Frederick Banting Alternative High School on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Youth in grades 7 to 12 are invited to come and hang out together from 5:00 – 8:00pm. The Centre provides board games, Dungeons & Dragons, arts and crafts, a beginner sewing workshop, foosball and ping-pong, plus consoles including Xbox, PlayStation, and Wii, along with quiet chat areas. New this year, is the introduction of a Lego Club and Basketball – register at this link.
With so many options, youth are going to be returning every week to have fun, learn and grow with their friends in a clean, well-organized and vibrant space. Parents won’t have to worry, as there are always adult volunteers on hand who have received Ottawa Police record and background checks – ensuring that everyone has a good time in a safe environment.
Attending the Open House for another year at the HBYC on September 15th, the general consensus from the kids was that the Youth Centre is a hit with more attending each week. They love having a place where they feel safe, can make new friends, and have some fun.
The Kiwanis Club is well-known for supporting youth. They donate books to the Stittsville Food Bank through the Club’s Kiwanis Books for Kids program so children also receive a gift in the food hampers; hold their annual Start to Smart School Drive in partnership with Staples to provide school supplies to children; raise funds to purchase Chromebooks donating them to children in need through our local schools; and, have hosted along with community partners, the annual Movie Night in the Park at Village Square Park for families. They also host an annual talent showcase for youth – the Kids4Kids Talent Showcase – that is not a competition, but an opportunity for youth to highlight their talents with our community.
The Youth Centre wouldn’t be possible; however, without the help from volunteers. If you are a high school student looking to gain your 40 hours or if you are someone who wants to give back to your community your help is always appreciated. You can get in touch at this link or by emailing the Kiwanis Club directly at: kiwanisyouth@gmail.com.
The Home Bosses Community Youth Centre is another Kiwanis project that ensures our youth have a local and safe outlet to enjoy a few hours three nights a week in a safe, volunteer-powered environment supported by the local community and the Kiwanis club.
