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On June 1st, 2019, the Pinball Clemons Foundation held our inaugural Bursary Recognition Ceremony at Dave and Busters in Vaughan. It was a fun filled day of food, family, and games.
We invited 21 award recipients from our Margins to Mainstream model to participate in a special mentorship session. , The youth heard from Michael “Pinball” Clemons, who highlighted the importance of understanding that what’s needed for you to succeed is already in you.”
Over the past year, We have been able to host seven sessions this year and will continue to host them throughout the summer semester. The youth have all agreed that though Saturday mornings can be sluggish, the mentorship activities and self-reflection outcomes have been instrumental to their ongoing personal growth. The mentorship sessions set us apart from other Bursary programs.
During the 2018/2019 academic year, 15-25 youth have met at CW Jeffries Secondary school. We've held 3 Saturday sessions per semester. These sessions were a mandatory commitment from the youth in order to receive funding for the current semester and to be considered for funding for the following semester. The sessions are hosted by the Pinball Clemons Foundation, which include various activities and exercises.
During the recognition ceremony, the youth also participated in a speed mentoring activity, which paired them with industry professionals, donors and other esteemed guests. The topics of discussion varied from educational guidance to financial advice to general life advice.
The day was capped off with an emotional award ceremony. Each student received a scholarship recognition certificate to celebrate a year of success in the classroom.
Our #marginstomainstream model would not be possible without the support of our donors and charitable partners. Because of YOU we're able to change the narrative for youth in our community. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!