UST’s 2025 Impact Video

What Sets Us Apart

Long-Term Approach

UST recruits students as early as Grade 6 and asks families to commit through Grade 12 and beyond, allowing staff to support students across critical academic, personal, and developmental milestones rather than through one-off interventions.

(W)holistic model

UST uniquely combines daily academic support, squash training, mentorship, nutritious meals, transportation, and family engagement into one cohesive program, removing multiple barriers at once instead of addressing challenges in isolation.

Pathways to Post-Secondary

Through individualized Pathways planning and the Squash the Barriers Scholarship, every student has a clear, supported route to college, university, or the trades; backed by financial support that ensures cost is not a limiting factor.

Program Breakdown

Urban Squash Toronto (UST) removes barriers to opportunity for youth in the Jane & Finch community by combining squash, academic support, and mentorship.

What We Do

At no-cost UST offers six weekly academic and athletic sessions through after-school and weekend programming. Students are provided transportation to and from our facility at Downsview Park, receive nutritious meals, and participate in a structured program that blends academic support, squash training, and mentorship.

Students also access:

  • Tutoring and academic guidance

  • Field trips and cultural experiences

  • Career and workplace readiness workshops

  • Participation in Squash Ontario and U.S. tournaments

Why it Matters

Our goal is for 100% of UST students to graduate high school and pursue a post-secondary pathway of their reminder choice. UST has consistently maintained a 100% high school graduation rate, and the 93% of our students have gone on to post-secondary education; helping close the opportunity gap in our community.

Students benefit from:

  • Consistent, long-term support from Grade 6 through high school graduation

  • Trusted relationships with staff mentors who understand their academic and personal needs

  • Clear post-secondary planning through individualized Pathways guidance

  • Reduced financial barriers through access to scholarships and post-secondary supports

How Students Benefit

Through consistent support and meaningful opportunities, UST helps students develop the skills, confidence, and stability needed to succeed in school and beyond.

Academic Achievement

Students receive tutoring, mentoring, and workshops that strengthen learning habits, improve grades, and increase school engagement.

Community Engagement

Field trips, volunteering, and tournaments help students build responsibility, strengthen social connections, and feel rooted in their community.

Youth Development

Through squash, academic support, and mentorship, students build leadership, discipline, time management, confidence, and resilience skills.

Health & Well-Being

Regular squash and fitness activities support physical and mental well-being by building strength, reducing stress, and improving self-esteem.