Introducing Torch: A custom online platform for youth-led organizations
ACCESS, as the organizational mentor of the Regional Youth Roundtable (RYR) is excited to announce the launch of Torch: A platform designed to connect all youth-led organizations, fostering collaboration and idea-sharing. The custom-designed system allows the Youth Roundtable's member organizations to excel in growth by utilizing advanced databases, interacting with community partners and accessing resources. Through the platform, organizations in the region have the opportunity to collaborate using forums and a unified calendar. Beginning in the fall, youth-led organizations from the York Region will also have full access to this platform.
Beginning with the Region of Peel, with funding from Ontario Trillium Foundation's Youth Opportunities Fund, as well as York Region, with funding from the Laidlaw Foundation.
What does the system look like?
The landing page consists of a feed that presents all of the newest information uploaded to the platform – from calendar events to resources. Youth-led organizations have the opportunity to use the platform in a variety of ways, positively contributing to the development of the structure of their organizations. As well, members have the ability to upload or respond to requests, promote their events to the general public by adding them to the community calendar and finally upload or download resources (documents, links, and important contact information).
As described by Emilia of Peel's Youth Roundtable:
The RYR has high hopes for the future of Torch, which will allow Peel Region’s youth-led organizations to easily interact and collaborate to create a better future for youth. Thanks to Torch, the Roundtable hopes to prove that, although each organization’s initiatives hold great value, they can inspire one another to grow, become even stronger and create significant value in the community by working collaboratively.
How do you access Torch?
Although event calendars are public, posting and access to resources is reserved for youth-led organizations officially registered with Youth Roundtable. Youth-led organizations should use the contact form at youthroundtable.ca to request an account; other organizations should email torch@accesscharity.ca for membership options. Visit myTorch.ca and login.
A recap of the launch event through social media follows.