OTF invests $2.5M to support 3 System Innovations projects
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is pleased to announce this year’s grant recipients through the Youth Opportunities Fund’s System Innovations stream. Three collaboratives were awarded a total of $2.5M to help improve the lives of young people and families in Ontario.
System Innovations grants help transform how young people engage with key systems like health care, education, and employment. These grants fund collaborative, community-led projects that reimagine services for youth facing systemic barriers, with a focus on Black and Indigenous communities.
Led by individuals who share the identities and lived experiences of the youth they aim to support; these projects drive the research and development of community-based solutions to increase access and reduce barriers to key services.
“Tackling systemic barriers takes all of us - organizations, grassroots groups, and community leaders, working in coordination to build solutions that are lasting and meaningful. OTF is pleased to support projects that open doors for youth and families, helping them thrive.” said Katharine Bambrick, CEO of the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
Awarded grants
Stolen From Africa / Volé D’Afrique will receive $330,500 to strengthen the education system, create safe spaces and improve cultural connections by evaluating and sharing effective African-centered interventions to help advocate for self-determination and ensure better educational outcomes for Black youth, families, and communities.
Delta Family Resource Centre will receive $973,700 to improve the education system by addressing racism and its impacts in school-based practices and policies by re-envisioning and creating accessible resources for school personnel, students, and families, to improve education outcomes for Black youth and reduce the negative impacts of streaming, suspensions, expulsions.
Peacebuilders International will receive $1,246,000 to improve access to culturally relevant support and mentors by equipping service providers, families and caregivers to better support and advocate for youth. This collaborative will conduct the groundwork and implementation to encourage accessible services and decision-making models that consider systemic barriers when serving youth.
Quick facts
- The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province.
- Last year, OTF invested nearly $105M into 732 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Through the Youth Opportunities Fund, OTF invests in community-led projects that play an essential role in creating safe spaces, empowering youth and families, supporting career pathways, and addressing issues faced by our communities