The Loft Youth Space Thrives in New Colborne Street Home
I’m excited to share this update on the incredible growth of The Loft Youth Space. In just one year, The Loft has become a lively, welcoming place where young people in Fenelon Falls can learn, connect, and feel supported — and the momentum keeps building.
Our partnership with BGC Kawarthas has been a huge part of this success. We look forward to continuing this partnership and expanding The Loft’s impact even further in future.
Thank you to everyone who has encouraged, supported, or helped spread the word — together, we’re creating something truly meaningful for our community’s young people.
Doug Hawe
Chair, Kawartha Works Community Co‑operative
Just one year after opening its doors, The Loft—Fenelon Falls' youth space operated by the BCG Kawarthas—has become a thriving hub for local kids and teens. What began in February 2025 in the basement of the United Church has now fully transitioned to its permanent home at 30 Colborne Street, where the program has been operating since October 2025. The move has accelerated growth, strengthened engagement, and expanded opportunities for youth in the community.
Participation Continues to Climb
Membership has quadrupled since launch, reaching 46 active youth as of early March 2026. Most participants are elementary school students, a pattern similar to the early days of the Club’s Lindsay location. Organizers expect a broader age mix in the coming years as current Grade 8 members enter high school in fall 2026 and as the new downtown location increases visibility and accessibility.
A Weekly Lineup That Resonates
The Loft runs Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 2:30–6:00 p.m., offering a mix of practical skills, creativity, and social development:
Cooking Tuesdays continue to draw the biggest crowds, giving youth hands‑on experience in the kitchen.
Arts & Crafts Wednesdays provide a creative mid‑week outlet.
Respect2Connect Thursdays, a healthy‑relationships program, is now winding down after a successful run.
New additions to the space—including a pool table and video game console—have quickly become popular gathering points, helping create a welcoming, youth‑friendly environment.
New Programs Coming This Spring
Beginning later in March, The Loft will introduce two new after‑school offerings designed to reach even more youth:
A STEM program on Thursdays will incorporate fun experiments and creations that allow youth to dive into the world of science and technology in a fun and engaging way
A monthly queer youth night, launching as a pilot to assess engagement and community need.
These additions reflect the Club’s commitment to creating interest‑driven spaces where young people can connect and feel supported.
Addressing Barriers and Planning for Growth
One ongoing challenge is transportation. Many students who rely on school buses find it difficult to stay after school for programs. The Club is actively exploring transportation solutions that would allow more youth to participate and still get home safely.
