The 11th Annual 360°Experience

2024

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On February 29th, 2024 – The 11th annual 360°Experience, our signature event, focused on raising awareness about youth homelessness, commenced with an opening ceremony at the Community Safety Village in Stouffville. Despite the mild winter weather leading up to the event, temperatures dropped that night and participants faced the chilling reality of harsh temperatures and biting winds, simulating the challenges faced by homeless youth.

Notable guests included 360°kids Board Chair Rhonda Leeson, OPUS Homes CEO Andrea DeGasperis-Ronco, and local York Region community leaders. Egor, a youth in our programs, delivered a poignant speech about the need for funding and understanding of homeless communities in York Region. The event featured three distinct event streams, allowing for varied participation, including The Virtual Experience, and The In-Person Experience and Corporate Challenge events.

The In-Person Experience

Despite the chill in the air, 20 determined individuals embarked on the In-Person Experience, beginning their journey at the Community Safety Village and traveling to the 360°kids Richmond Hill Youth Drop-In Centre. Their routes took them across the Greater Toronto Area with stops at agencies like Belinda’s Place, Blue Door and Sutton Youth Centre. Along the way, they engaged in insightful discussions on mental health, immigration, and other important topics, gaining a firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by homeless youth.

The diverse group of In-Person participants represented organizations such as Hyundai Canada, the OPP, Richland Academy, St. Therese de Lisieux and 105.9 The Region radio station. Together, they shared stories, exchanged ideas, and formed meaningful connections to raise awareness and advocate for change.

The Corporate Challenge

The scene at the Community Safety Village was brimming with enthusiasm as sixteen teams gathered for the Corporate Challenge. With a strong sense of unity and determination, they eagerly participated in interactive activities focusing on housing, employment, education, and well-being.

The active involvement of 360°kids youth in program and front-line staff brought a deeply impactful dimension to the experience, offering firsthand insight into their daily struggles and moments of triumph. Engaging in activities such as building a shelter, survival skills training, and sharing youth impact stories, the event’s packed schedule made for a meaningful and immersive experience. This interactive session further deepened the participants’ understanding and empathy, creating a transformative event.

2024 Corporate Challenge Teams

Hyundai CZ, WAH, Dealerships, HO
OPUS Homes
Deloitte
BMO
Sharp Appraisal
City of Markham
Mayor’s Team

York Regional Police
York Catholic District School Board
Regional Municipality of York
Home Trust
Parents For Youth
Primerica

The Virtual Challenge

The virtual experience welcomed 65 participants, including students from all across York Region schools. Through neighborhood challenges and engaging content, sent via email and text messages, groups, like 360°kids Youth Ambassadors, St. Augustine Catholic High School and J. Addison School students, to name a few, participated and gained a deeper understanding of homelessness and the resources available to help those in need.

Funding Goals

As for our funding goals, we are proud to announce a final total of $265,000 in pledges from participants and $55,000 in Sponsorship support, for a grand Total of $320,000. Thank you to all who donated, participated and volunteered their time for our annual event.

At its core, the 360°Experience was a testament to the power of empathy, compassion, and collective action. Through shared experiences and meaningful dialogue, participants emerged with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of homeless youth. As the sun set on a day filled with inspiration and hope, it was clear that the journey had only just begun.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2024
360°EXPERIENCE SPONSORS

None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of nineteen sponsors, including OPUS Homes, Hyundai, York Regional Police and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority. Their contributions ensured that the 360°Experience was not just a one-time event, but a catalyst for lasting change in the community.

The 360ºExperience

Video Playlist

Step into the heart of this year’s unforgettable moments! We’re thrilled to invite you to experience the highlights of our this year’s 360ºExperience event through our video playlist. Each video captures the essence of our gathering, bringing the inspiration directly to you. Join us as we relive these inspirational moments. Click play and let the memories unfold!