BY: miwako chang
Jane Finch Tennis is about more than tennis. This local organization aims to build communities and support at-risk youth through academic and recreational programming, education, mentorship, personal and professional development, and employment opportunities. Their core values of community, inclusion, health, wellness, education, and employment are maintained in their initiatives.
Jane Finch Tennis offers youth tennis programming for various age groups, march break camps, after-school programs, instructor certification programs, and girls’ tennis and leadership programs. Children begin their involvement with the program through tennis programming, followed by volunteerism to foster community engagement. Employment opportunities within the organization are the final step. This three-step model fosters youth development.
Jane Finch Tennis is supported by various community partners including Tennis Canada, Jumpstart, Ontario Trillium Foundation, and MLSE. This past September, Jane Finch Tennis received a $68,400 grant and $47,600 fund from the Ontario Trillium Fund for a youth pilot project and the organization’s operational costs.
Jane Finch Tennis plays a fundamental role in our community. Their 2019 Annual Report reported more than 600 hours of tennis programming and 192 hours of academic support utilized by 337 participants with the help and availability of 44 employment opportunities and 55 volunteers.
There are several methods to support Jane Finch Tennis. Non-profit organizations appreciate donations to support their operations. Community members can host fundraisers to raise funds through events such as socials and tennis tournaments. Volunteers play a key role in their organization and are encouraged to participate.
For more information, visit janefinchtennis.ca.
