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WHOWE ARE

Our vision is that every young person in Prince Edward County has an equal chance to excel in life. theROC’s innovative programs and services are designed to empower youth to excel in school and lead healthy, productive lives.

What We Believe

At theROC, we believe in youth. We see them for who they are and who they strive to be. Youth are invited into a safe and inclusive environment to be seen, heard and supported.

Meet the team

All of our staff are passionate advocates for youth. With extensive and varying backgrounds and education, front-line staff experiences allow each of them to connect with different youth in a way that builds successful and trusting relationships. Administration staff also bring years of shared experience in working with youth, connecting with the community and securing funding to ensure the continued success of theROC.

Impact in the community

In our 23rd year of serving youth in Prince Edward County, the impact in the community has been, and continues to be, significant. With an average of 400 youth accessing services annually, theROC is a vital and integral part of the social services network. We work with numerous agencies to ensure youth receive a wrap-around experience to support their every need.

Accountability

theROC Youth Services operates with transparency and accountability to our funders, corporate sponsors, and community donors. An annual report provides a clear picture of our impact on the youth of Prince Edward County and how all dollars contributed to our agency are responsibly spent. 

How We Got Started

theROC Youth Services has been supporting Prince Edward County youth for 23 years. Through dynamic programs, wrap-around services, and passionate staff, young people in our community know they have a place and space where they belong.

2000

theRoc Began

theROC began 24 years ago to provide youth a barrier-free environment to enjoy recreational activities such as sports, art and cooking. All programs were run by dedicated volunteers and community members with a variety of skills and a unified commitment to providing a positive environment for young people in PEC.

2000

2012

The Needs of Youth Changed

As the needs of youth changed, theROC adapted to meet those needs. In 2012, our agency shifted to provide in-school programming during the lunch break and after school at each of the elementary schools at the time. Additionally, evening programs were offered through clubROC at Queen Elizabeth Public School, prior to its closing. Further, through our partnership with PECI, “Girls Group” became a weekly staple in the high school, providing drop-in opportunities for youth with a healthy lunch and regular connections to positive adult role models.

2012

2017

Youth Centre Opens

In 2017, upon securing a site on Main Street in Picton, and with the closure of further elementary schools in Prince Edward County, theROC shifted gears once again to best serve the youth of the community. In January, 2017, the Youth Centre was opened. Focusing primarily on the ever-increasing needs of young people ages 12-18, theROC began offering more focused skills-based training and workshops, field trips, academic supports, meeting basic needs, and leadership development.

2017

Today

A Safe Place for Young People

24 years later, theROC remains a safe place and space for young people in our community.

Today

Get Involved

theROC relies on the generous support of our community – please consider supporting local youth. Every donation – from $5 to $500 – makes a difference in the lives of PEC youth.