Media Invitation - Scarborough youth sacrifice some summer fun to explore
future careers

TORONTO, Aug. 11 /CNW/ - Despite the fabulous sunny weather, 120 Scarborough youth chose to trade some summer fun for an educational future by taking part in Centennial College's HYPE (Helping Youth Pursue Education) program, sampling a rich learning experience at no cost.

The youth, aged 13 to 29 and primarily from the neighbourhoods of Malvern, Kingston-Galloway and Scarborough Village, have been participating in six career-oriented courses - automobile repair, food services, child studies, office administration, business entrepreneurship and esthetics - over the past six weeks.

For some, participating in Centennial's HYPE program is the first positive school experience they've had in a long time. The initiative is rooted in Toronto Mayor David Miller's Community Safety Plan, designed to bring programming to youth living in under-serviced neighbourhoods of the city.

Now in its seventh year, Centennial worked with local community service agencies to identify youth who could benefit from the program. Thanks to generous financial support from TD Canada Trust, the students were provided with free transportation, breakfasts and lunches.

Students developed individual portfolios that included certification earned in personal and skills development workshops, covering such topics as financial literacy and conflict resolution. Participants also took part in a variety of social events.

The HYPE Class of 2010 will be recognized for their achievements at a special graduation ceremony on Thursday, August 12 from 1:30 to 3:30 pm. Members of the media are cordially invited to attend the graduation and speak with participants.

Date:	Thursday, August 12
Time:	1:30 to 3:30 pm
Location:	Student Centre at Progress Campus, Centennial College 941 Progress Ave. (east of Markham Rd.), Scarborough

For further information:

Media contact: Mark Toljagic, Communications Officer, 416-289-5000, ext. 7142, cell 416-605-6012, [email protected]