Valerie Henderson first discovered Rossbrook House when she was just 12 years old. Today she is a long-time staff member, a mother, and a grandmother, who has seen many young people walk through the doors of Rossbrook House.
“I’ve been working evenings at Rossbrook House for a couple of decades. When I’m driving to work most people are going home after a long day. Children and youth are making their way to their second home, Rossbrook House. Many drop in every day. They take the bus or are dropped off by their caregivers or social workers, ride their scooters or bikes or simply walk. They come here because it’s a safe and fun environment. They tell their friends and more children and youth gravitate to Rossbrook House after school.
I kept coming back for the same reasons when I was twelve years old. I was hungry for food, acceptance, and a sense of belonging. Children and youth come here to fill that need too. My home life was not one to be desired as some of the children and youth experience this as well. As staff, we can detect when a child or youth is going through something too big for them to handle on their own. They trust and confide in us. We appreciate the seriousness when they choose to open up. We listen and do our best to accommodate them in any way we can. Sometimes I wonder what life would be like if I or others hadn’t walked through the main doors.
I am witnessing generations—the children and grandchildren of past participants frequent Rossbrook House. My son grew up here just like me. My grandchildren ages 7 to 16 love coming to Rossbrook House.
Summer at Rossbrook House is always memorable. School is out and our doors are open 24 hours a day. It’s a time for fun activities. Everything is free. The two calendars for the children and youth are filled with beach days, Camp Maskwa, traditional teachings and the summer games. The doors remain open 24 hours all summer so that the youth (up to age 24) always have a safe place.
Most of the youth I worked with when I was a program coordinator have found their place in life. They visit occasionally to thank us for being there for them and supporting their ideas and dreams. They are teachers, musicians, authors, roofers, city workers, and social workers…
On behalf of the participants, please consider supporting Rossbrook House. Thank you.”
Valerie Henderson
Click here to donate today to support Rossbrook House.
As we’re all aware, inflation rates keep increasing and so do the expenses associated with keeping the doors of Rossbrook House open. Unfortunately, financial support from Rossbrook House sustained funders is not rising at the same rate. Your support will help ensure that children and youth will continue to find a second home in Rossbrook House for generations to come.
Should you choose to donate online before the end of June, every dollar will act as an entry for the Great Canadian Giving Challenge!
The more you give, Rossbrook House has more chances to win $10,000 in support of the Intermediate Leadership Program. For the Challenge’s full terms & conditions click here.
Thank you for your support.