From raising neighbourhood graduation rates from 40 to 72 per cent, to supporting over 600 students in completing high school, Pathways to Education has a lot to celebrate as it commemorates its 15th year.
This anniversary year was filled with meaningful events and initiatives that celebrated students, alumni, staff, and community partners. Highlights included a retrospective magazine featuring 15 years of student stories; the “Buy a Hoodie, Give a Hoodie” campaign, which gifted hoodies to both the 2025 and 2026 cohorts; milestone graduation celebrations; student dinners and movie nights; and a series of social media and billboard campaigns showcasing alumni achievements and expressing gratitude to the community for its ongoing support.
“This year has been incredible,” says Roger Romero, Manager of Youth Services at KCHC. “We’ve seen more students go on to post-secondary education, with some even completing masters degrees. Our alumni return year after year to holiday celebrations, eager to reconnect, and many are now working in exciting roles within the community. We’re also seeing the next generation of resilience—alumni starting families and connecting to KCHC early years programs. It’s a reminder that Pathways is about more than graduation rates; it’s about the lasting relationships we build and the lives we help shape.”
Over the past 15 years, Pathways has evolved to meet the changing needs of students and the community. What began as a highly structured, education-focused program has grown to include broader supports, such as mental and physical health, learning differences, and food security.
Staff are now also actively involving youth in program decisions, ensuring students have a voice in shaping their own Pathways experience. Being part of KCHC additionally allows the team to provide wraparound support, bridging gaps between school, home, and community, and ensuring students receive guidance and care both inside and outside the classroom.
Looking ahead, Pathways to Education is focused on continuing its core mission: building long-lasting relationships with students and providing consistent, unconditional support.
The program has piloted early intervention initiatives starting as early as Grade 6, which have already shown promising outcomes. Staff are also exploring ways to expand support beyond the current catchment area through
pilot projects and community collaborations. The program hopes to see alumni stepping into leadership roles within their communities and fields of work, continuing the cycle of guidance and empowerment for the next generation.
“Slow and steady wins the race,” Roger says. “Our focus will always be on being present for students, supporting them through high school, and helping them achieve their goals—whether that’s further education, meaningful work,
or leadership in their communities.”
As Pathways to Education closes its 15th year, gratitude is at the heart of the celebration.
“We couldn’t do this work without the families of our students,” Roger says. “They trust us to walk alongside their youth, and we’re eternally grateful for that support.”
He also acknowledges KCHC and its Board of Directors for always advocating on the program’s behalf, the Pathways Cabinet for creating a sustainable endowment, and funding partners such as Pathways Canada, United Way, CFKA, and the Rotary Clubs of Kingston for believing in the program and investing in its success. Above all, Roger highlights the dedication of staff, past and present.
“This work isn’t always easy, but our staff give 100 per cent every day, making a lasting impact on a generation of young people.”