Generation Chosen

     

 Generation chosen isn’t just a program It’s a sanctuary as I like to call it. A place where most of us teens take refuge from the harsh realities of our communities, A place where most of us have found our first role models/ mentors, a second home, A family. The anchors take their time out of their busy days to bring us on fun but educational trips outside of the scheduled program days. When I first attended in grade 9 I was really shy an open space like generation chosen helped me socialize more which has helped me a lot, this program can have the same impact on thousands of individuals as it did me I am truly grateful. 

Jayden Mclean: Anchee(Mentee)

     

 As a member of Generation Chosen I know that I have been given many opportunities which can help me not only now but also in the future. I have encountered many obstacles over the years in which I have attended this program and there was not on situation in which I didn't feel like I could talk to any of the anchors in the program. I am also very proud to be a member of the program as it is a lot of dun and members are friendly and welcoming. 

Bobby Osagie: Anchee(Mentee)

     

 I feel Genchosen is a pleasant and necessary community for the youth. Its great to have a program that consists of staff that reside in the same area as the youth and can relate to many of the situations the youth has, providing an even greater bond. I had the privelege of being part of the program in its infancy and the anchors of genchosen who ive come to look up to and admire, leave a very positive image in my mind that i try to emulate from when i was first introduced to them to even the present. These programs are important for the community as it keeps the youth occupied in a positive setting 

Joseph Henry: A.I.T. (Anchor In Training)

 My name is Jumar Alexander and I am member of Gen chosen. Gen chosen has helped me in a number of ways that are too numerous to list. In my earlier years, I was lost most of the time because I wasn't mentally strong enough to figure things out with my life. Gen chose motivated me, helped me find employment, they even helped me figure out my personal problems at home. Gen chosen is an amazing program for underserved communities because it helps kids stay out trouble, learn things about themselves and also learn about how to empower themselves and others. 

Jumar Alexander: Basketball Coach (Generation Chosen)

     

 Generation Chosen has played an instrumental role in my growth after graduating at Ryerson. Initially I attended the program with intention to use the basketball gym in order to stay in shape. During this time, I was introduced to Joseph Smith, and Dwayne Brown. They provided me with a space free of judgement, as well as access to mentors and guest speakers that helped to change my perspective on life. Joseph and Dwayne have been great pillars of support for me and the community. They inspired me to enroll in an education program at York and provided me with the necessary support to be successful with my studies. Throughout my time at Generation Chosen I have witnessed its growth and the impact it has had on many young people within the community. It is a space that brings together diverse youth and provides them with tools that go beyond a classroom. Generation Chosen has helped teens and young adults in the community to find mentors, jobs and access to further education. This program is essential and should be implemented in different communities throughout the city. 

Andy (@watswitandy): Anchee