Where Learning Meets Life

When Wayne sat down with a struggling student in our Day Treatment program, he saw something familiar in their story. 

“They reminded me of a younger version of myself,” he shared. “They were trying to make sense of their emotions, their choices, and how to move forward.” 

At Ray of Hope, we believe in equipping the next generation of leaders in social work with real-world experience, meaningful mentorship, and the chance to make a difference. Every year, we welcome students who are completing their required placement hours. We are continually inspired by the heart and commitment they bring. 

Wayne is a social work student from Renison College, completing his placement with Ray of Hope’s Youth Support Services team. For ten months, he has been walking alongside youth who are working through substance use and mental health challenges.  

“I’ve learned that there is always a story behind the behaviour,” Wayne said. “People don’t use substances because something is wrong with them. It is often pain or trauma, and they are doing their best to cope. Our role is to remove barriers and walk with them as they figure out what is next.” 

Wayne is one of several post-secondary students who have completed field placements with Ray of Hope this year. Another is Michaela, a first-year Master of Social Work student from Wilfrid Laurier University. She is spending her placement in our Youth Support Program. 

“I’ve always been interested in the connections between environment, social factors, and addiction,” Michaela said. “This is my first time doing clinical work, and it has been amazing. What has surprised me most is how many young people want help and are open to it.” 

For both Wayne and Michaela, Ray of Hope has offered a place to grow as future social workers while making a difference. Whether it is in one-on-one counselling, group sessions, or check-ins at local schools, they are part of something meaningful. They are helping youth move forward with courage and support. 

Just like the youth they support, our student placement workers are on a journey of their own. It is a journey that is shaping their lives in meaningful ways. 

We are grateful to Wayne, Michaela, and all the students who have spent part of their learning journey with us. The care and dedication they bring to our Youth Support Services team is a gift to our community. We look forward to welcoming more students in the future. 

If you or someone you know is looking for a meaningful student placement in social work, we would love to hear from you. Reach out to our student placement team at volunteer@rayofhope.net 

Tee Up for a Great Cause

Join us for the Ray of Hope Golf Classic on Monday, June 9, at Rebel Creek in support of the Ray of Hope Community Centre.

🏌️‍♂️ What’s included?
✔️ 18 holes of golf
✔️ Cart rental
✔️ Lunch and dinner
✔️ A $50 charitable receipt

Sign up as an individual, twosome, or foursome. Tickets are $200 per person. Every dollar raised helps provide meals, support, and hope to people experiencing poverty and homelessness.

Register Here

Marketplace Needs

You can help make life a little easier for people in our community who are struggling with food insecurity and other challenges. Thank you!

We have a special need for these items:

* Hygiene items – deodorant, toilet paper, sunscreen

* Food  – school-safe snacks, canned beans, canned veggies, pasta sauce, canned fruit, cereals, baking items, etc.

* Baby care – diapers (sizes 2-5), formula, baby food

For more information, please contact us at info@rayofhope.net.

We’re grateful for your support as we invest in people, inspire hope, and transform lives,