University Presbyterian Church provides JaneFinch ReachingUp with space to run the program.  University Church is where ReachingUp started.  The church wanted a strong presence in the community and to reach out beyond its walls.

Having an education is the foundation of a good start in life and getting a job.  It also makes the children feel better about themselves. The program has a Homework Club director and a Music director.  Volunteers come from York University, Seneca College, members of University Church and other volunteers from the community.  The Toronto parks and recreation department and other organizations have helped with teaching the children gardening, composting and principles of ecology.

The positive interaction between the children and tutors makes this a happy and save place to be.  Here they get positive attention and encouragement to do their best.  The music program enhances the learning process, and hopefully will become a lasting interest throughout their lives.

At JaneFinch ReachingUp we believe we can help children reach up and out of the cycle of poverty by providing support and inspiration to stay in school and do well.  Our motto is for the children to catch up, keep up and get ahead.

The JaneFinch ReachingUp program is governed by a board of directors who oversees the program and ensures that funds continue to be available through fundraising.  The board operates independently, but in close cooperation with the University Presbyterian Church. 

Respectively yours,

Jan Hieminga