Sarah Ali, along with five other caring, determined, passionate mothers got together under the banner of the Somali Parents Liaison Coalition to create a summer camp for thirty vulnerable children that brought much joy, safety and opportunity to both parents and children. Sarah spoke to Rotary September 1st, about the great work that’s been done.
The Somali Parents Liaison Coalition (SPLC) was founded in 2002. It is a diverse and inclusive organization, committed to academic excellence and integrity. The organization provides instruction to parents and the community in a caring safe and healthy learning environment, responsive to each student in collaboration with families and the community.
This summer SPLC., the TDSB and Outreach of Etobicoke-York-Community Council launched a Kidz Robotics & Sportz summer camp, a pilot project to give opportunity to kids from Model Schools for Inner Cities-TDSB who live in priority neighbourhoods. Students living in these neighbourhoods often lack the science technology, engineering, and math education opportunities that students in more affluent areas of the city receive.
Developed and delivered by certified and trained instructors, the program was designed to challenge and engage kids in fun, constructive and educational hands-on sessions. The robotics and sports program provides activities and education for kids who otherwise might be stuck at home by themselves all summer. It is run entirely by volunteers and is part of SPLC and Etobicoke-York Community Council’s wider intervention programs to help divert youth from the gangs and crime that their neighbourhoods struggle with. Along with providing fun and education for the students, the program also provides volunteer and community service opportunities for the youth who help to run it.
This pilot project camp was such a success that word spread and there are now 232 kids on the waiting list to join next year, as well, there are eighty seven youth volunteers ages 13-18 ready to join the Captain Leadership Program.
If you want to learn more about this organization, see: https://www.facebook.com/Somali-Parent-Liaison-Coalition-SPLC-756833277786957/?rc=p
The Happy Campers
Summer Camp Flyer
Sport Activities
