Annual General Meeting

As always, this event showcased some of the incredibly talented and resilient young people from the HomeBridge Community. It’s always inspiring to witness their strength and creativity.

The Expressions program is an arts-based, therapeutic, like-skill building program that offers the young people the opportunity to express themselves through art, music therapy and photography. The theme of this year’s program was “Healing Through the Arts” and we really think everyone who attended the AGM experienced that first hand during our event.  From the opening performance of “I am Light” to the closing song, “Safe and Sound”, and the entire gallery of artwork on display, the amount of growth and connection fostered throughout the program were clear. This was the young people’s time to shine and shine they did. 

Two youth courageously took the stage to speak about their experiences, winning the hearts of everyone in the room. Former resident Patricia returned to perform her favorite fiddle tunes and shared how much her time in the HomeBridge Community meant to her. She told the audience:

“After I left the Reigh Allen Centre, I was happy to be in a foster home with a new family that really cares, but I was also sad to leave because the staff here were the most amazing people I've met. They truly care and try their hardest to give a better life to youth in care.”

One of our current residents also joined our Recreation Therapist on stage to talk about his involvement in our boat building program.  Although he was shy at first, he quickly warmed up and had the audience laughing by the end of his time at the podium.   We’re always very proud when the young people want to get up and share, whether it’s through art, a performance or speaking.  Given the challenges they have faced, their self-esteem and confidence are often deeply impacted. Seeing them step into the spotlight and reveal their strength and talent is a powerful reminder of their resilience. Every round of applause affirms that they matter and have something meaningful to contribute to the world.

This event combines all of the necessary elements of an Annual General Meeting with a celebration of the young people we have the privilege of serving and the important stakeholders that help us do the important work we do.  We honoured employees who have reached milestones in their years of service, Board members who have given their time and talent to guide and support us, donors, and community partners who help us provide opportunities for the young people to thrive.

Thank you to everyone who attended.  Your support of HomeBridge and especially the young people makes a big difference.