Local MPP Trevor Jones recently planted the seeds.
Now it’s time to watch them grow.
Jones, MPP for Chatham-Kent–Leamington, met with the Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent (LDA C-K) to hear more about a $16,600 seed grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) that was used to fund My Superpower, a program helping youth in Chatham-Kent to build self-esteem and confidence by focusing on their strengths and sense of purpose.
“I’m proud to see this $16,600 Seed grant supporting the vital work of the Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent,” Jones said in a media release.” This investment will empower youth to build emotional resilience, recognize their strengths, and develop the confidence they need to succeed.
The pilot program focused on social, emotional, and personal empowerment, helping youth build skills to recognize and use their strengths.
Funds provided by OTF allowed staff to develop and deliver this original program, which included social outings to apply skills in real-world settings.
“Programs like this make a real difference in the lives of young people in our community, and I commend the organization for its commitment to supporting every learner,” Jones said.
Funding also covered food and travel, ensuring full accessibility for all participants, including those from rural areas.
Julia McKellar, executive director of LDA C-K, said the seeds have already sprouted.
“Everyone involved, from the program co-ordinator, volunteer helpers, parents, the participants themselves, and even their schoolteachers, saw improvements in the self-esteem and confidence of the youth in a short amount of time,” she said. “Some of the youth are now able to do things they had never felt confident to do before, like giving a presentation in front of their class and ordering food at a restaurant.”
In existence since 1976, Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent is a not-for-profit charitable organization committed to helping individuals reach their full potential. They offer several after-school and summer programs for elementary children, including one-to-one tutoring, social skills training, and a secondary school preparation course.
