Kids will be rolling out the red carpet on November 6
“The Wasaga Beach Youth Centre represents what makes our community special,” said Mayor Brian Smith. “For 15 years, it has provided a safe and supportive environment where kids in our community can make new friends, learn new skills, express themselves, and feel connected. It’s an investment in the future of Wasaga Beach that continues to make a meaningful difference.”
WASAGA BEACH – On November 6, the Town of Wasaga Beach is rolling out the red carpet to celebrate 15 years of empowering local youth through the Wasaga Beach Youth Centre.
The 15th Anniversary Red Carpet Celebration, open to the public from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., will include refreshments, youth leadership awards, and remarks recognizing those donors and volunteers whose support continues to shape the Centre’s commitment to empowerment and community connection.
The Wasaga Beach Youth Centre is a safe, inclusive, and inspiring space for local youth in grades 6 to 12. Since opening its doors in 2010, the Centre has become a hub for youth by offering free programs, mentorship, and a space where young people can play, learn, and connect.
Funded by the Town of Wasaga Beach and supported by generous community donations, the Youth Centre has seen rapid growth in participation over the past two years. On average, the Centre welcomes over 5,500 visits annually, with 350 active youth participants engaging in drop-in programs, workshops, and social events. In 2025, participation has already surpassed 4,000 visits.
Community support has been key to the Centre’s success. Long-time local donors have helped sustain programs and fund equipment through annual contributions and fundraising efforts.
“Supporting the Youth Centre through the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie campaign has been incredibly rewarding,” said Sarah Collie, local Tim Hortons franchise owner. “Every dollar raised goes back into programs that support local youth – whether that’s providing meals, equipment, or a safe place to be with friends. Our customers are proud to know they’re making a real difference right here in Wasaga Beach.”
“We’ve been proudly supported the Youth Centre for over ten years,” said Barcelo’s Restaurant. “We believe in what the Centre stands for: a place where every young person feels valued and encouraged to succeed.”
Quick Facts:
- In 2025, over $18,000 was raised through Tim Horton’s Smile Cookie campaign in support of the Wasaga Beach Youth Centre.
- The Centre averages 5,500 visits annually, with 350 active youth participants each year.
- Over 3,500 meals and snacks are provided annually during drop-in hours.
- Programming includes technology and gaming, creative workshops, leadership training, and community-building activities.
Additional Quotes:
“Having been involved with the Youth Centre since its early days, I’ve seen firsthand how much it has evolved,” said Deputy Mayor, and founding member of the Youth Support Committee, Tanya Snell. “The Centre continues to find ways to grow alongside our youth, helping them build confidence and pride in our Wasaga Beach community.”
“The Youth Centre has become a second home for so many kids in Wasaga Beach,” said Megan Haskett Youth Programmer. “Every day, I get to see the difference this space, and the people in it, make in the lives of our youth. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of that.”
Learn more about the Wasaga Beach Youth Centre.
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Media contact:
Sandra Watts
Director of Strategic Communications & Intergovernmental Affairs
sandra.watts@wasagabeach.com
