On May 21, 2025, the launch ceremony for the third round of funded projects under the “Volunteer Project Support Center for Under-Served Youth”, funded by Canada Service Corps (CSC), organized by the Canada-China Federation of Entrepreneurs, was grandly held in Markham. The event brought together several political figures and community leaders, including Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, York Region Councillor and Chair of Markham’s Culture and Economic Development Committee Alan Ho, as well as project mentors, review panel representatives, and youth participants, to witness this significant occasion.
At the ceremony, President Liu of CCFOE of Entrepreneurs together with Mayor Frank Scarpitti and Councillor Alan Ho, presented funding cheques to the three youth project teams that were approved for support.
In his speech, Mayor Frank Scarpitti encouraged young people to actively engage in community service, stating that they are not only youth leaders of today but also the trailblazers of tomorrow’s society. He said, “Markham is a city where diverse cultures come together. Young people should seize opportunities within this diversity, participate in volunteer projects across various ethnic communities, and grow through hands-on experience.”
York Region Councillor and Chair of Markham’s Culture and Economic Development Committee Alan Ho also emphasized that government-funded volunteer programs provide a valuable platform for youth. He noted that these programs not only help young people integrate into society but also reflect a strong sense of social responsibility and mission. He further invited youth interested in community service to contact him directly to get involved in more volunteer opportunities.
At the event, two youth mentors delivered practical presentations. Wu Yinan gave a focused talk on the importance of independently managing youth projects, while Gary Wang shared practical strategies for developing project budgets, providing hands-on guidance for the participants.
During the experience sharing session, the funded teams enthusiastically shared their project ideas and implementation plans, sparking lively interactions and inspiring moments. Participating youth expressed that being part of such projects not only enhanced their professional skills and leadership abilities but also deepened their sense of belonging to the community and their passion for service. They hope that more young people will join in the future to grow and contribute together.
