Connecting the Community

Russ Horner has some great mascot tales. Mascots have a positive purpose ...except maybe cows!

Those interested to learn more can simply do a Google search for "Russ Horner Mascot" or "Russ Horner Character".
Russ's more complete character history  will be available later this year at www.TheGreatCharacterCompany.com."

A comprehensive conversation with CCSYR staff about newcomers dealing with trauma and family members with Autism.

Elvan and Hengameh talk about some of the great work that is done to support the newcomers, including a successful new newcomers autism project. 
 
Counselling Services - Catholic Community Services of York Region (ccsyr.org)
 
Newcomers Autism Project - Catholic Community Services of York Region (ccsyr.org)

Tom Allen talks about the show ”JS Bach’s Long Walk in the Snow” - there’s music, storytelling and history.

SHOW POSTPONED TO MARCH 3RD, 2024, 3 PM
Tom is a great storyteller.  He wants to demystify classical music.  You may be wishing to go to Lubeck, Germany to see the setting for this performance, Thursday, Jan 18th, RHCPA, Plaza Suite, 7:30 pm.
Find out more, including a link to purchase tickets, on Tom Allen's web site Performances | Tom Allen (tomtomallen.com)
Tom Allen | STORYTELLER, CONCERT HOST, AUTHOR, MUSICIAN, BROADCASTER (tomtomallen.com)

Mayor David West talks about the process for deciding what gets in the budget.

This podcast was in in depth conversation with David about how things are decided regarding the budget. A lot of people are really working hard
If you want to read the budget details here's the press release - 
Richmond Hill Council Approves 2023 Operating Budget - City of Richmond Hill

Chef Shai, founder of Rooks to Cooks, talks about nurturing young chefs, her business and herself

Shai Mandel has successfully blended her passions of teaching and cooking.  Rooks to Cooks offer virtual and in person programs including summer camps in Richmond Hill.  
Check out all the options at Rooks to Cooks

Talking with Adam, Lulu and James from Light on the Hill Church. An interesting place with and interesting history, integrating our community

Lots going on at Light on the Hill Church  
Dec. 16th, 2023 there is a Family Christmas program open to the community as part of their Rise n Shine program for young children. Check out their Facebook page (20+) Facebook .
This 175 year old church has many programs and indoor and outdoor spaces. 
Music is important to them. They have borrowed from England the term "Messy Church". 
Henri Nouwen is buried there and an outdoor amphitheater commemorates him.
Adam Furfaro, James Yu and Lulu Yeng invite you to visit!!!
 

Rehana Sumar talks about the situation with looking after those who find themselves homeless and the community’s opportunity to be part of the solution

Rehana tells us her story of addressing the local needs of those who find themselves homeless and how the Coldest Night of the Year has been a great fundraiser.
Here's where you can participate in  the Coldest Night of the Year event Richmond Hill (Blue Door) - Coldest Night of the Year 2024 Canada (cnoy.org)
And check out what is happening at  Blue Door - Giving Hope a Home

Rev. Robert Hayashi talks about the long history and the bright future of the Richmond Hill Presbyterian Church

Robert enthusiastically talks about the history and the congregation of the Richmond Hill Presbyterian Church and also its role in being part of the community.
He encourages everyone to come and visit, including at Christmas.

Krista Andrews talks about the Kettle Campaign and other good work of the local Salvation Army

Krista is the pastor with the Salvation Army Church in Richmond Hill and loves what she does - which is a lot and varied. The church's long time motto of providing soup, soap and salvation continues today.  The Salvation Army in CanadaShe hopes many people will volunteer and "man" a kettle or bubble and drop off holiday gifts before Dec. 12th.
Click HERE. Once in the system, volunteers can view locations, schedules and begin committing their time this Christmas.
For more information, please contact Kettle Coordinators Elli Bagheri or Courtney Drew by emailing christmaskettle.salvationarmy@gmail.com or calling or texting 416-970-4768
And shop at the Salvation Army Thrift Store Shop Thrift & Donate Secondhand Goods | Your Local Thrift Store

Talking about newcomer mental health with Michelle and Stephanie from CCSYR

CCSYR offers lots of support for newcomers
Home - Catholic Community Services of York Region (ccsyr.org)