The challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic have pushed Horton's Kids and the families of Wellington Park and Stanton Oaks to redefine and strengthen our sense of community. With health and safety as top priority, Horton's Kids has continued to offer comprehensive academic, youth development, family engagement, and health/wellness programming virtually and in person. These services have helped children and families get back on their feet as they look towards a brighter and bolder future.

But there's still work to do. We're hyper-focused on helping participants recover learning and rebuild their social-emotional skills as they re-enter the classroom. After our 4-week 2021 summer program, we've already seen tremendous impact with 100% of participants maintaining or growing grade-level literacy skills and 80% of participants demonstrating "typical" or "strong" social emotional skills. At the core of that success is a program model that engages volunteers and trained educators who work 1:1 and in small groups with students. With the school year underway, this work will continue with high-intensity tutoring, customized learning plans, youth development and enrichment programming, and exposure to college and career opportunities.

We are also looking forward to reconnecting with our community of supporters as we return to the Fairmont Hotel on November 17th, for the 14th Annual Give Thanks and Give Back Gala. Our goal is to raise $275,000 to continue mitigating the effects of Covid-19 in Ward 8. With your support, we can help cultivate the talent and potential of every child in Wellington Park and Stanton Oaks. Will you join us?