Inspire

These stories about local youth taking action to make a difference in our community are made possible through the continued support of Sunshine Super Wash as part of our Community Leaders Program.

Local club, started by 11-year-olds, aims to bridge gaps among readers

'We're bridging social issues to people,' says 11-year-old co-founder of club 'and a bridge between seniors and youth,' says other co-founder

Feb 8, 2025 12:30 PM Read more >

Nashville country artist helping local students 'be the best they can'

'The students have re-lit my passion for music again,' says Jaclyn Kenyon, who is coaching students through Orillia Music Centre

Jan 12, 2025 12:30 PM Read more >

'Happy place': Young Orillia singer/songwriter making her mark

'The last few years have been a whirlwind just getting my career off the ground,' says OSS grad who recently won coveted emerging artist award at regional event

Dec 7, 2024 2:30 PM Read more >

'Natural leader': Award-winning local cadet inspired her troops

'I learned how to be a leader which could be very important in a work setting,' says Lily Montague, a graduate of the 99 Lynx Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron of Orillia

Nov 7, 2024 1:30 PM Read more >

Couchiching Conservancy teaming up with local youth to 'help the environment'

'I want to get out there in the environment and help out. It’s something I really care about,' says Patrick Jones, a youth volunteer with the Couchiching Conservancy

Oct 17, 2024 7:30 AM Read more >

Orillia teen working hard to realize big-league baseball dreams

'I like catching because I'm involved in every single pitch of the game,' says Jackson Winacott, who has been invited to Best in the U.S. MLB Showcase

Sep 20, 2024 1:45 PM Read more >

Orillia Big Brothers Big Sisters duo is a match made in heaven

'Being a single mom, I wanted Andy to have someone she can talk to,' said 12-year-old's mother; local agency is in desperate need of male volunteers

Aug 12, 2024 2:45 PM Read more >

'Amazing' local kids working on five ideas to make Orillia better

'I think it's exciting for kids to be able to create something that didn’t exist before and have something come to fruition out of thin air,' says a Rainbow Initiative mentor

Jul 9, 2024 1:45 PM Read more >

Disappointment fuels new passion for volunteering for Orillia teen

‘I don’t see volunteering as a job or a task. It’s more of a fun activity that allows you to give back to the community,’ says Lions Oval student

Jun 5, 2024 12:30 PM Read more >

Local dog lover donates birthday money to Orillia Animal Centre

'It’s exceptionally meaningful because not only does it show the natural compassion and care that young people have for animals, it shows selflessness,' says OSPCA official

Feb 27, 2024 12:30 PM Read more >

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• 5
• >