Even a rainy and slippery weather forecast could not dampen enthusiasm for OCYI’s 3rd annual Critical Hours Training Conference. Organized by OCYI’s Critical Hours Task Group, a team of dedicated staff from over a dozen critical hours programs, the day brought together approximately 100 staff from 40 organizations across Ottawa. Offering a full day of learning, tailored to support staff who work with kids and youth outside of school hours, attendees chose from session topics such as Building Inclusive, Neurodiverse-Friendly Programs, Caring for Young Grievers, Human Trafficking, Incorporating Numeracy and Literacy, Understanding Trauma and Digital Wellness.
Gathering first for refreshments, and later an included lunch, attendees noted and appreciated the conference as a valuable opportunity for networking, engagement and sharing of resources. Funding and in-kind contributions from the City of Ottawa — Recreation, Cultural, and Facility Services, the Ottawa Community Foundation and the United Way East Ontario served to enhance the accessibility of the conference through staff support funds for organizations needing to cover staff time or additional supply staff.
