MINI IMPACT REPORT — FALL 2025
CAMP HELPS OMAR BECOME A LEADER
Omar has been coming to Moorelands for nearly eight years. What started as following in his brother’s footsteps has turned into a journey of his own, filled with friendships, challenges and leadership growth.
This year, he joined STEP, a leadership program at camp for students in Grade 10. For him, growth is about becoming the kind of leader he once looked up to as a camper. “The staff here always cared. They would ask how my day was and actually listen to me. That made me want to do the same for others,” he says.
Through STEP, Omar has learned patience and resilience. The canoe trip tested his endurance with long hours of paddling under the hot sun, but what he remembers most is the teamwork, as they supported each other through every challenge.
Moorelands has shaped Omar in lasting ways. Once shy, he now describes himself as more open, jolly and willing to connect.
“The people you meet here become like family,” Omar says. “That’s why Moorelands matters! It brings more smiles, more encouragement and belief in yourself.”
“It made me realize I am a leader.”
– Lucy, Camp Participant
BRIGHTER, BIGGER AND MORE ALIVE
Lucy and Salo’s Camp Story
Lucy and Salo, both 12, arrived at Moorelands Camp for the first time this summer. Nervous at the start, they quickly discovered a welcoming community that felt like home. To their surprise, both were invited to return through the Project DIVE program—leadership recognition that filled them with pride.
Separated into different cabins, the sisters grew independently, making their own friends and trying new things. “It wasn’t hard,” they explain, “because everyone was so welcoming.” They discovered new experiences, such as skateboarding, rock climbing and photography. “At first I was scared of skateboarding, but then I learned so much in just two days,” says Lucy.
Both sisters felt proud when they were recognized for their leadership. For Lucy, winning the leadership award was a turning point. “It made me realize I am a leader,” she reflects. For Salo, seeing her cabin win a senior challenge proved how teamwork and encouragement could lead to success.
What stands out most to them is the camp spirit—the cheers, the laughter and the sense of community. “Moorelands feels like a movie,” Lucy shares. “At home, you can’t even see the stars. Here, everything feels different. It’s brighter, bigger and more alive.”
HOW MOORELANDS HELPED ME GROW
For Gabby, Moorelands Is a Safe Space to Learn and Lead
My name is Gabrielle, but I go by Gabby. I’m 13 years old and I’m part of the Moorelands City Clubs program.
I’ve made a lot of new friends here and met so many new people. It’s been really fun. We’re all different ages, but it doesn’t bother me because the connection is there. The teamwork, the friendship, the friendliness—it’s all there. That’s something I really like about Moorelands. It’s a safe space for me.
At school, we’re getting an education. But at Moorelands, we’re learning respect. We’re learning “No D’s,” which means no diminishing ourselves or others. We’re learning how to be better people, kinder and more respectful toward others.
This year, I brought one of my friends, Valerie, because she was interested in everything I told her. I said that Moorelands is a fun, safe and welcoming place. We get to play games, meet new people, and I told her we get food and snacks. Who doesn’t love food? She was also really excited about the overnight retreat at Moorelands Camp. That was amazing, especially meeting the camp dog, Tripper. He was so sweet!
I would say Moorelands really changed me as a person. I’ve learned to change my attitude and take things on a more positive note. It impacted me in a really positive way, and it taught me to be kinder and more respectful.
GOOD NEWS! MOORELANDS CITY CLUBS IS EXPANDING.
We are excited to announce the expansion of Moorelands City Clubs into new communities, providing youth leadership and life skills in Toronto schools in two new areas. Stay tuned for more!
10TH ANNUAL STARRY SUMMER NIGHT BASH!
On August 16th, Starry Summer Night brought together long-time supporters and new friends for an evening focused on helping more children attend camp.
Thanks to everyone’s generosity, we raised $125,000 this year, which will provide opportunities for kids to experience Moorelands Camp, a place where they can grow, learn and thrive.
We’re grateful to all who made this event possible, ensuring that youth can feel a sense of belonging with friendships and memories that can last a lifetime.
SAVE THE DATES
As the holiday season approaches, we are preparing for two important ways to support families in our community. Please save these dates!
Together, we can make this holiday season meaningful for many families. Thank you for your kindness and generosity.
To learn more about Holiday Sharing, click here:
CONNECT WITH US!
Moorelands Kids shares updates about our programs, teams and fundraising efforts. Follow @moorelandskids to stay in the loop! You can also subscribe to our email updates by clicking the button below.
251 Consumers Road Suite 601,
Toronto, Ontario M2J 4R3
Phone: 416.466.9987
moorelands.ca
Charitable Registration #
11923 0241 RR0001
