Our Mission

The Pinball Foundation empowers equity-deserving youth by breaking down barriers to education, mentorship, and career opportunities.

Our Vision

To build pathways where youth are guided by mentors, supported by community, and equipped to reach their full potential.

LEARN MORE

This month, we honour the journeys that shaped us and the futures still being written.

SUPPORT

As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Pinball Foundation, Legacy Lift-Off honours the powerful journey of Black Canadians. This one-of-a-kind experience brought together visionary leaders and changemakers for an unforgettable visit to Pier 21 — Canada’s historic gateway. Guests embarked on an exclusive one-day chartered flight from Toronto to Halifax, tracing the footsteps of Black Canadian history and paying tribute to the stories that have shaped our nation.

VIEW GALLERY

TOMORROW'S LEADERS NEED YOU, TODAY!

Invest in equity, fund mentorship, and open doors to education.

800

Scholarships and Bursaries Awarded.

99,000

Hours of
Mentorship.

5340

Textbooks Provided.

SUCCESS STORIES

Rayshell

"The greratest benefit was having that sense of comfort and peace of mind knowing that I have people around me who will always be there for me."

PinballBURSARY

Anya

"The Foundation has given me not just financial support for my education, but a true sense of family and a strong support system."

PinballBURSARY

Courtney

"Through the Pinball BURSARY program, I've learned to see life through a new lens, one that dares me to dream bigger and reach higher."

PinballBURSARY

Empower youth year-round with your sustained support. Your monthly gift provides crucial resources and mentorship that help marginalized individuals confidently step into their futures.

BECOME A MONTHLY DONOR

STAY CONNECTED

Catch the newest stories, updates, and highlights from our community.

Discover inspiring stories and updates from the Foundation.
Read our blog to stay informed and see our impact.

Stay connected and inspired with the Foundation.

stories that make a difference.

Learn more about the Foundation and our mission.

Subscribe to watch stories of change and

see our impact in action.

Introducing our #WeDidntLearnThatInSchool series for Black History Month!

This series is dedicated to educating, uplifting, and highlighting important Black history, from influential Trailblazers to powerful stories that deserve greater recognition.

Africville was a thriving, self-sustaining Black community in Halifax for over 150 years.
In the 1960s, the city forcibly displaced residents, demolished their homes, and erased the neighborhood without proper consultation or fair compensation.
Halifax did not formally apologize until 2010.

Africville’s story reminds us of the importance of preserving Black history and community. Did you learn this in school? Comment below! ❤️🧡💚

What an unforgettable day!

On February 3rd, visionary leaders, change-makers, and community champions for Legacy Lift-Off came together for a powerful one-day experience celebrating Black journeys, past and present, in honour of the 20th anniversary of the Pinball Foundation.

The day began at Toronto Pearson International Airport, where guests gathered to connect and network, building excitement, unity, and anticipation for the day ahead. The energy set the tone for a meaningful and purpose-driven experience as attendees boarded an @aircanada charter flight to Halifax, the historic gateway to Canada’s Black history.

Upon arriving in Pier 21, the heart of the experience unfolded over lunch where participants engaged in powerful conversations, storytelling, and reflection on the resilience, contributions, and legacy of Black Canadians. The guided tour of Pier 21 and Africville presentation brought history to life, offering a moving tribute to the stories that continue to shape our nation and deepen our collective understanding. After a full day of learning and connection, attendees returned home carrying not only memories, but renewed purpose and inspiration.

This day was more than a trip: it was a celebration of legacy, leadership, and community.

A heartfelt thank you to our presenting sponsor, The Alpay Family and special thank you to Air Canada, for making this experience possible. Your support continues to uplift stories, empower communities, and create opportunities for impact.

Here’s to honouring the past, empowering the present, and building a future rooted in purpose. 💙✈️ #LegacyLiftOff #BlackHistoryMonth

📸 @skyliteimagesphotostudio

The energy for today is unmatched🔥💙 #LegacyLiftOff #BlackHistoryMonth

Ready for takeoff! ✈️

Legacy Lift-Off, in partnership with @aircanada Canada and the Alpay Family, proudly empowers the next generation of global leaders.

We will be kicking off Black History Month with a one-day chartered flight from Toronto to Halifax to trace the footsteps of Black Canadian History and pay tribute to the stories that shape our nation.

Stay tuned as we share our journey! ❤️💛💚

As we kick off Black History Month, we honour the generations of Black leaders and changemakers who have strengthened our communities, while recognizing the work still ahead.

For 20 years, Pinball Foundation has taken action to close gaps through scholarships, mentorship, employment pathways, and long-term alumni support.

This Black History Month marks a legacy lift off, celebrating two decades of impact and the ongoing work to create clear paths to success for Black youth.

Follow along as we celebrate #BHM throughout the month of February! 💚❤️🧡

We believe strong career preparation creates strong futures. Big thanks to our Recruitment and Placement Partner, The Whiteboard Collective, for hosting mock interviews that equip our students with confidence, experience, and career-ready skills. We’re proud to support our students every step of the way! 💙

And just like that, January comes to an end! Here are some highlights from the month:

✅ Pinball BURSARY Winter Semester
✅ Pinball MiCRO Graduation in Winnipeg
✅ Pinball ACCELERATOR Graduation
✅ Pinball’s Birthday!!
✅ Second Hiring Affair in Winnipeg

Here’s to carrying this momentum throughout the year and making 2026 our most impactful year yet!

#FeelGoodFriday

Hear from Sherman Hamilton, a long-time member of the Canadian Men’s National Basketball team, as he shares what inspires him to stay involved with the Foundation and support its mission. Stories like his remind us why this work matters. 💙

Interested in becoming a corporate partner? Reach out to our Partnerships team. Link in bio!

Meet Cole Donald! 💙

A proud PinballBURSARY alumni, Cole reflects on his time in the program with gratitude. His favorite part? The people - the connections, friendships, and support that made his journey unforgettable. Today, Cole is putting those skills to work at Bell, where he’s part of the marketing team. Stories like his remind us why community matters.

Help us support more youth in 2026. Donate today. Link in bio!

As Mentorship Month comes to an end, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our partners, The Whiteboard Collective and One Voice One Team.

Their guidance, support, and encouragement continue to empower our students, helping them discover their potential and build the confidence to lead. Together, we’re shaping futures and creating a community where mentorship truly transforms lives. 💙

There’s nothing like kicking off the year alongside our incredible partners, The Whiteboard Collective and One Voice One Team, connecting with the outstanding new cohort of the PinballACCELERATOR Program, and learning from the wisdom of our co-founder, Michael “Pinball” Clemons.

The day sparked inspiring discussions and fresh ideas, reinforcing the value of working together with intention. As we move forward, we’re focused on expanding our reach, nurturing strong partnerships, and advancing initiatives that stay true to our mission of empowering youth.

Let’s make this year truly unforgettable! 💙

#FeelGoodFriday

🎥 @torontoargos

Through every high and low, Pinball's energy drives the Argos forward. 💙

Sometimes a hug says what words can’t—it’s the simplest way to remind someone they’re not alone.

Give someone in need a hug, you never know who might need it. #BellLetsTalk 💙

#NationalHuggingDay 🫂

Another success story begins! 💙

Join us in celebrating Suleiman Chernoh, a micro-credential alumni, on securing a permanent full-time position at Sysco Canada as an Order Selector!

With the support of our official recruitment and placement partner, The Whiteboard Collective, Suleiman successfully transitioned into his new role through our Winnipeg placement. This achievement highlights his hard work, commitment, and readiness to grow professionally.

Congratulations, Suleiman! We’re proud of this milestone and look forward to seeing all that you accomplish in this next chapter. 💙

Graduation isn’t the end of the journey, it’s the beginning. PinballNEXT keeps youth connected, supported, and inspired as alumni.

Through networking events, leadership opportunities, and ongoing mentorship, this program helps graduates expand their skills, grow their professional circles, and give back to the next generation.

Learn more by visiting our website. Link in bio! 🔗

Did someone say 2016 is back? Here's a little throwback for the nostalgia 💙

#FeelGoodFriday #2016trend

Happy Birthday to our incredible Co-founder, Michael 'Pinball' Clemons! 🎉

Your vision, dedication, and heart have touched countless lives and shaped our community in ways that words can’t fully capture. Thank you for leading with passion, generosity, and unwavering commitment. We are forever grateful for you and all that you do. Wishing you a day filled with love, joy, and laughter! Happy Birthday, Pinball!

Leave your birthday wishes in the comments! 💌

Meet Amanual Bisrat! 💙

A proud PinballACCELERATOR Program alum. When we asked Amanual what he loved most about the program, he shared how it helped him find his voice. Today, he’s thriving in his new role as a B2B Sales Customer Representative at Teleperformance!

Stories like his show the impact of guidance and opportunity in helping young people succeed.

Learn more about the PinballACCELERATOR program by visiting our website. Link in bio!

Empower youth beyond today. 💙

Monthly donors provide the steady support that fuels mentorship, education, and opportunity for youth who need it most.

Be part of the change—become a Monthly Donor today. Link in bio!

Mentorship plays a vital role in personal growth, skill development, and community building by providing guidance, encouragement, and learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom.

At the Pinball Foundation, mentorship becomes even more powerful—turning curiosity into confidence and simple interests into meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. Through creative and interactive programs, the Foundation empowers the next generation to grow, learn, and lead.

Learn more at pinballfoundation.ca 💙

When we come together, opportunity follows. 💙

Our events are more than moments of connection - they are catalysts for mentorship, education, and meaningful career pathways for youth. Every contribution helps open doors, build confidence, and create futures rooted in opportunity. And this is only the beginning.

Be part of the impact in 2026. Please email Jennifer@pinballfoundation.ca to learn how you can stand with us in shaping the future.

Meet Illinoy! 💙

A fourth-year Aerospace Engineering student at Centennial College and a proud PinballBURSARY recipient. When we asked Illinoy what he loves most about the program, he shared how meaningful the sense of community has been throughout his journey. Stories like his remind us of the power of support and connection in helping students thrive.

Help us support more youth in 2026. Donate today at pinballfoundation.ca/donate

When we uplift young people, we shape a stronger tomorrow. By investing in their potential today, we help create confident leaders, stronger communities, and lasting change for generations to come.

Support future leaders today by making a donation! Link in bio 🔗

“If what you did yesterday still sounds good to you today, then you haven’t done much today.” — Michael Pinball Clemons

New year, fresh focus. As we step back into work, school, and routine, let’s commit to growing a little more every day. Start the year the right way. 💙

#MotivationalMonday #NewYearMindset

Starting the year on a high note as we celebrate one of our Career Accelerator Program graduates, Temidayo Adebayo, who has begun his full-time role at CIBC as an Estate Specialist!

With the support of The Whiteboard Collective’s career team, Temidayo steps into this new chapter prepared, confident, and ready to lead with purpose.

His success is a reminder that every goal reached brings us closer to a future where talent is recognized, empowered, and uplifted. 🌟

Happy New Year from the Pinball Foundation family 🎉 Wishing you a year filled with joy, hope, and endless possibilities.

The clock is ticking! As 2025 comes to a close, this is your final opportunity to support this year. Your generosity fuels our mission and enables us to continue creating a meaningful impact in our community. We want to remind you that December 31st is your last chance to make an impact in 2025—and maximize your tax benefits for the year.

Your year-end gift will ensure that the Pinball Foundation can continue to empower students, provide mentorship, and build the careers of future leaders. Support and be part of something that truly makes a difference. Donate at pinballfoundation.ca/donateonline.

From laptops and textbooks to mentorship and career support, your generosity made all of this possible in 2025. Together, we’ve empowered thousands of young people through education and opportunity. 💙

There’s still time to make an impact before the year closes. Your support today helps carry our mission forward. Donate today at pinballfoundation.ca/donate.

Year-end gifts help empower! Every dollar donated will help further the education of equity-deserving youth. Your support will not only cover educational expenses but also help youth overcome barriers on their path to a career.

Help us support more youth in 2026. Donate today at pinballfoundation.ca/donate

What a year! 2025 was filled with unforgettable moments, meaningful connections, and incredible support. The Pinball Foundation couldn’t have done it without our amazing community.

From our family to yours, thank you for making 2025 so special. We’re proud of what we achieved together and excited for what’s ahead! We're more than ready for you, 2026. 💙

Meet Precious! 💙

A third-year Psychology student at Wilfrid Laurier University and one of our amazing PinballBURSARY recipients. When we asked her about her favorite part of the PinballBURSARY program, her words reminded us exactly why we do what we do. Our students continue to inspire us every day.

Help us support more youth in 2026. Donate today at pinballfoundation.ca/donate

The Clemons family wishes everyone a Merry Christmas!

Let us all celebrate the true meaning of the holidays - coming together, spreading joy, and lifting one another. We’re reminded that to give is to live, and that giving back is what truly brings the spirit of Christmas to life. Through kindness, generosity, and compassion, we can make this season brighter for all. ❤️

Merry Christmas from the Pinball Foundation Family!

Christmas with the Clemons 2025 Presented by The Alpay Family is now on YouTube! Link in bio 💙 If you miss the show this year, here’s your chance to enjoy it with your family. Make this a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day tradition.

Hosted by Sean Jones & Patricia Jaggernauth, and featuring performances by Diane Lee Clemons, Jully Black, Karl Wolff, Dani Doucette, Armando & Soprano Scarlato.

Support youth this holiday season! Donate at pinballfoundation.ca/donate.

This season, may your homes be filled with peace, warmth, and the joy of being together.

From our entire team, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! May the coming days be filled with love, rest, and celebration. ❤️

Your Joy Funds Their Future ❤️

Turn holiday joy into lasting impact. When you give, you help youth build confidence, dreams, and brighter tomorrows. Give today at pinballfoundation.ca/donate.

Give Joy Today. Inspire Tomorrow. ✨

Your support helps young people build confidence, discover their potential, and create brighter futures. When you invest in youth today, you help shape tomorrow’s leaders. Make a lasting impact and donate today at pinballfoundation.ca/donate

Happy Birthday to our incredible co-founder, Diane Lee Clemons! 💙

Your talent, grace, and beauty, inside and out, shine in everything you do. You continually make a meaningful impact in our community, inspiring hearts and creating positive change wherever you go. Thank you for your vision, your leadership, and for all that you do for the Pinball Foundation and beyond. We are so grateful for you today and always.

Make Joy Your Holiday Gift! ❤️

This holiday season, your generosity can uplift and empower youth in our community. Give a gift that truly matters. Let’s give more than presents—let’s give hope. Donate today at pinballfoundation.ca/donate.

On Wednesday, The Dream team was joined by Pinball and Diane Clemons for a heartfelt visit to @ywstoronto !

The evening began with a delicious meal prepared by the Pinball Foundation team, followed by our annual Secret Santa made possible through the continued support of our generous donors. The youth enjoyed selecting gifts such as headphones, speakers, beauty products, tablets, gift cards, and more, along with receiving winter essentials gift bags.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make this visit so special. Your kindness and generosity made our youth feel seen, valued, and celebrated. We’re so grateful to be able to share moments like these together 💙

Your generosity opens doors 🎓

Support the PinballBURSARY and help youth access education this winter. Donate today and give joy that lasts.

Relive the magic of Christmas with the Clemons concert! 💙

The 2025 concert gallery is now live. View it here: www.christmaswiththeclemons.ca/gallery2025

This holiday season, give the greatest gift of all - joy. ❤️

A simple act of generosity can bring hope, comfort, and smiles to those who need it most. When you choose to give, you become part of something bigger, creating moments of happiness that truly matter. And remember, joy starts with you.

Donate today and help spread joy where it’s needed most at pinballfoundation.ca/donateonline 🎁

Wrapping gifts, spreading joy.

This holiday season, the Pinball Foundation is doing more than wrapping presents - we’re wrapping underserved youth at the shelter in warmth and hope! Every youth deserves to feel seen, supported, and celebrated, especially during a time meant for togetherness and joy.

This season of giving, choose to give joy. ❤️ Your support helps create brighter futures and brighter smiles. Donate today at pinballfoundation.ca

Our hearts are full! We are truly overwhelmed with gratitude for all the love, energy, and support shared at this year’s Christmas with the Clemons concert. From the unforgettable performances to the generosity of our community, this night was nothing short of magical. 🎄

Our hosts, @seanjonesmusic & @patricia_j, filled the evening with energy, warmth, and festive spirit — and the talent that graced the stage left an unforgettable impact. We experienced one memorable moment after another with powerful performances from @missjullyblack, @karlwolfs & @dani._doucette, @armandoscarlatojr & @sopranoscarlato, and the soulful leadership of our very own @dianeclemons. Each artist moved us, inspired us, and reminded us of the true joy and connection music brings.

To our sponsors, donors, and supporters - thank you! Your belief in this mission allows us to continue empowering underserved youth through education, mentorship, and opportunities that spark confidence, leadership, and hope. Because of you, we can continue this tradition and continue to make real change in our community.

The Alpay Family, @cobthammerheads, Carmelina DiMondo, The Howe Family (@billhowe1, @babwa1, @ljhowe10), @aoncanreferrals, Bellwether Investment Management, @willisdesignsolutions, @pizzavilleinc, @oakvilleacademyarts, and The Fenton Family.

As we move into the holiday season, we invite you to keep the spirit of giving alive. Your support helps create pathways to success for young people who deserve every chance to thrive.

Together, we are building opportunity, one student at a time. 💙 To donate or learn more, visit pinballfoundation.ca

Thank you for being part of the magic - we can’t wait to see you next year!

Stay tuned for more photos! 📸

The Christmas with the Clemons concert wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors. Your generosity helps us create joy, connection, and community during the holiday season and we are truly grateful. 💙

Because of you, we’re able to support and empower underserved youth and help make a meaningful impact in our community. Thank you for believing in the work we do and for helping keep this tradition alive!

Learn more about our supporters at christmaswiththeclemons.ca/sponsor.

ONE MORE DAY TO GO!

Christmas with the Clemons is almost here and we can feel the excitement!
Tomorrow we gather to celebrate music, community, connection, and the joy of giving. We can’t wait to share an unforgettable night filled with festive performances, laughter, and meaningful moments all in support of empowering and uplifting underserved youth. 🌟🎄

See you there!

Last chance for tickets!

The Christmas With the Clemons concert is almost here, and tickets are disappearing fast. Join us for a night of music, community, and giving back!

Every ticket purchased helps support underserved youth, giving them opportunities, resources, and hope for the future. ❤️

Seats are almost gone, and you don’t want to miss out on an evening of magic, music, and meaningful impact. Get your tickets now before they’re gone at www.christmaswiththeclemons.ca

This morning, our co-founders, Michael 'Pinball' & Diane Clemons, had the amazing opportunity to share the magic of the Christmas with the Clemons concert! This event isn’t just about holiday music; it’s about giving back and supporting students. As Diane Clemons says, "We started this 9 years ago and we wanted to do something for our students that was different and special. Music has a way of bringing everyone together." 💙

Thank you, CP24, for helping us shine a spotlight on this special tradition and the students it supports!

From timeless classics to unforgettable moments, we’ve shared laughter, music, and memories year after year — and the magic continues. 🎄🌟

Join us for another incredible celebration filled with soul, joy, and Christmas spirit. This is more than a concert; it’s about family, community, and giving back during the season of love and joy.

Tickets are selling fast - buy yours now at christmaswiththeclemons.ca

Happy #CIBCMiracleDay! 💛

Pinball Foundation was so proud to attend the 41st CIBC Miracle Day, celebrating the incredible impact CIBC and its team make in support of so many amazing children’s charities. Huge thanks for bringing communities together to help kids thrive - it was a joy to be part of such a meaningful day.

One of our favourite moments? Spending time with these awesome kids from Holland Bloorview (swipe for the smiles 🥰).

Thank you, @cibc ! 🎈✨
#MiracleDay #PinballFoundation #ChildrensCharities #CommunityImpact #HollandBloorview

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Our Mission

Our Vision

This month, we honour the journeys that shaped us and the futures still being written.

TOMORROW'S LEADERS NEED YOU, TODAY!

Invest in equity, fund mentorship, and open doors to education.

800

Scholarships and Bursaries Awarded.

99,000

Hours of Mentorship.

5340

Textbooks Provided.

SUCCESS STORIES

Rayshell

PinballBURSARY

Anya

PinballBURSARY

Courtney

PinballBURSARY

Empower youth year-round with your sustained support. Your monthly gift provides crucial resources and mentorship that help marginalized individuals confidently step into their futures.

STAY CONNECTED

Catch the newest stories, updates, and highlights from our community.

Journey's Through Mentorship: Self-Awareness

​

Hours of
Mentorship.