Housing
The 12th annual 360°Experience, our signature event focused on raising awareness about youth homelessness, brought together over 224 participants across York Region. The Corporate Challenge took place at the Community Safety Village in Stouffville, while the In-Person Experience saw participants spread across various locations in the GTA, braving the cold to simulate the harsh realities faced by homeless youth. Despite the freezing temperatures and biting winds, attendees showed immense resilience and solidarity throughout the night. Thanks to the incredible efforts of participants, staff, volunteers, and youth ambassadors, the event raised an outstanding $401,000—with donations still coming in—to support vital housing, support services, and opportunities for youth in crisis.
Notable guests at the opening ceremony included Mayor David West (Town of Richmond Hill), Steve Flamand (Executive Director, Hyundai), Ryan Hogan (Staff Superintendent, York Regional Police), Clovis Grant (CEO, 360°kids), Rhonda Leeson (Chair, 360°kids Board of Directors), and youth speakers from 360°kids. The event offered multiple ways to participate, including the In-Person Experience, Corporate Challenge, and Virtual Participation, engaging individuals, businesses, and community leaders in meaningful reflection and action.
The In-Person Experience
Despite the chill in the air, 22 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 schools such as Richland Academy and St. Therese de Lisieux. 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.
2025 Corporate Challenge Teams
- BMO Financial Group
- Deloitte
- Game Changers
- Home Trust
- Hyundai Canada – CZ
- Maple Hyundai
- Mayor’s Team
- OPUS Homes
- Stouffville Hyundai
- Team Hyundai Corporate
- Team Markham
- York Region Senior Management
- York Regional Police
- YR Staff Cares
The Virtual Challenge
The virtual experience welcomed 86 participants, including students from schools across York Region. Groups such as 360°kids Youth Ambassadors, St. Augustine Catholic High School, St. Theresa of Lisieux CHS, J. Addison School, and Primerica took part in the event and gained a deeper understanding of homelessness and the resources available to help those in need.
A special mention goes to Niagara University and Holy Trinity School for running the virtual 360°Experience on their own campuses. Participants received a detailed instruction booklet with all the necessary information and procedures to guide them through a series of engaging neighborhood challenges and learning activities.
Funding Goals
As for our funding goals, we are proud to announce a grand total of $401,000. Thank you to everyone who donated, participated, and volunteered their time to make the 12th annual 360°Experience a powerful and impactful event.
At its core, the 360°Experience continues to be a testament to the power of empathy, compassion, and collective action. Through shared challenges and meaningful conversations, participants walked away with a deeper understanding of the realities faced by homeless youth—and a renewed commitment to be part of the solution. As the sun rose after a night of reflection and resilience, it was clear the movement to support vulnerable youth is stronger than ever.
THANK YOU TO OUR 2025
360°EXPERIENCE SPONSORS
None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of nineteen sponsors, including Hyundai, OPUS Homes, 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
Media CoverageWe’re proud to share that the impact of this year’s 360°Experience was felt far and wide—and recognized by several media outlets and community platforms. From heartfelt stories to powerful interviews, the coverage captured the spirit of resilience, empathy, and collective action that defined the night.
Featured Media Coverage:
We were also featured on FM 105.9 York Region, where key voices from the event shared their experiences and insights:
- 🔊 Lesley Sims – Director of Resource Development at 360°kids
- 🔊 John Alton – In-Person Participant of the 360°Experience
These interviews highlight the real stories behind the experience and the ongoing need to support youth facing homelessness. Stay tuned as we continue to update our media page with more coverage.
Event Highlights
