Programs & events
The QWYC offers a wide variety of programming, ranging from daily drop-in activities, registered monthly programs, special events, and trips. Our focus is fostering connection and engagement among the youth of our community.
SPECIAL EVENTS
HOSPICE QUINTE PRESENTATION
AUGUST 18, 2026, 2:00 pm
Lisa Young of Hospice Quinte will present about the organization, and the services they provide for the community. Lisa is also one of the original founders of Quinte West Youth Centre!
JENGA PAINTING WITH CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
AUGUST 21, 2026, 2:00 pm
Grace and Ali of Children’s Mental Health Services Youth Outreach Team will be at the Centre with a Jenga painting activity. While we paint the wooden blocks, we will have a chance to hear about the services CMHS provides, including One Stop Talk, and other supports for youth.
FINANCIAL LITERACY WITH KAWARTHA CREDIT UNTION
AUGUST 28, 2026, 2:00 pm
Come meet the amazing staff of Kawartha Credit Union, who have been long-time supporters of the Youth Centre, as they lead us through a discussion on financial literacy, and take our questions.
It’s a great opportunity to ask questions about how to manage money, how to budget, to save, and maybe even invest.
PROGRAMS
ARTS & CRAFTS
Our art room is open for drop-in, and you can come explore the art supplies and work on your own projects! We have organized arts, crafts, and music activities led by our staff, OR, you can come in and play with materials on your own. We also love to welcome local artists and creatives to lead workshops with us! Have a project you’d like to see happening? Get in touch!
SPORTS
Year round, we have at least an hour of sports each day. This includes badminton, pickleball, volleyball, baseball, soccer, football, ping pong, and more. Thanks to our Canadian Tire Jumpstart support, we are well equipped, and everyone is welcome to join, regardless of experience or ability!
During the school year, join us Tuesdays-Fridays from 3:45-4:45 pm at the gym for indoor sports. Bring your indoor shoes, or wear your socks.
UKULELE LESSONS
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, this program led by CYW Hailey is a great opportunity to learn a very cool instrument AND have an opportunity to share it with the community. Contact us for availability, or drop in and chat with Hailey about learning.
What's cooking
‘What’s Cooking’ is a daily program that underscores the importance of healthy eating and nutrition. This program is aimed at educating youth about the many facets and complexities of nutrition and overall health, including- but not limited to- portion control, nutritional labels, meal preparation, and clean-up. This is an open program that runs daily. Youth are encouraged to collaboratively prepare and cook meals for all who are interested in eating, and those who wish to eat are asked to participate in the clean-up of their own dish and of the meal itself.
Rainbow Rising
Rainbow Rising is an ongoing program offered to youth who identify as or are allies of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, which runs during the school year every second Wednesday from 6-8 pm. This group is a safe, inclusive and open group that encourages discussion about relevant issues faced by the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and what youth are facing in their daily lives. The program is on break for the summer and returning in September. Stay tuned or contact us for details!
CHESS CLUB
Led by our very own in-house chess-xpert, James Kemp, Chess club runs during the school year on every second Wednesday, with some exceptions. Beginners who have never played before can learn the rules, and those with some experience will be able to develop strategy and further their skills! Come have fun at chess club – who knows, you might be Quinte West’s Next Chess Master! Contact us if you want to find out when Chess Club is running next.
fempowerment
Fempowerment is for anyone who identifies as a girl between the ages of 12-18. This 10-week program, participants meet once a week and explore topics such as healthy relationships (with friends/family/romantic partners/with self/community/etc.), self care, confidence, social media, and healthy habits vs diet culture. The goal of the program is that participants leave with higher self confidence and the skills to create and maintain healthy relationships in their lives. This program will start up again in September.
YOUNG MEN'S GROUP: Manly manifesto
This program is created to assist young boys in their transition into manhood. Becoming an adult can be a complicated and overwhelming experience, and many young men benefit from guidance during this stage. Some of the topics this program discussed include: gender roles and stereotypes, mental health and support, respecting others, consent, and positive relationships. By the end of the program our goal is that the members of the Manly Manifesto have developed the knowledge, skills, and self-awareness to become more confident with becoming an adult and recognizing positive support groups in their lives. Runs on Tuesdays at 2:00 pm, starting on August 18, led by Gabe
mental wellness
Mental Wellness programming provides opportunities for youth to learn about techniques and coping mechanisms to support their mental health. This program is also designed to provide educational information on mental health illnesses and end the stigma around mental health. Runs on Thursdays at 2:00 pm, starting on August 20, led by Hailey
bridge to hope
Bridge to Hope is designed to support youth who are at risk of becoming homeless or are homeless by providing preventative support. This program offers FREE laundry services, food, basic necessities, personal hygiene products, clothing, shoes and cleaning supplies. As a Youth Centre member, you can avail yourself of these supports, no questions asked.
Other programs and activities
- Homework help
- Volunteerism
- Entrepreneurship
- Sports
- Free wifi
- Science experiments
- Arts & crafts
- Weekly summer field trips
A look back at special events and guests!
- August 15, 2026. QWYC Youth-Led Fun Fest at Centennial Park.
- July 30, 2026. Public Health presentation on vaping, with Katrina Baxter.
- July 31, 2026. Needle Felting Adventure with Jodi Cooper.
- July 23, 2026. Career Edge presentation with Corbin Franklin.
- July 11, 2026. QWYC Popcorn Fundraiser at Trenton Ward Party.
- July 7, 2026. Pizza Lunch with Children’s Mental Health Services.
- June 30, 2026. “Friendship in a Time of Crisis” talk with Philippe Mesley of the Great Lakes Institute for Public Humanities.
- June 25, 2026. Budgeting & Expenses workshop with Dan Coleman of Welch LLP.
- June 19, 2026. QWYC Coffee House featuring youth and staff performers.
- June 11. Create a Mini-Cafe workshop with Suzy Cuerrier.
- June 4, 2026. Healthy Relationships workshop with YouthReach.
- May 30, 2026. QWYC Yard Sale.
- April 21, 2026. Field trip to the Skilled Trades Truck & Open House.
- March 20, 2026. Drumming workshop with Isaac Akrong of African Arts Institute.
- March 19, 2026. Yoga Movement workshop with Mikenze.