The Return of the Youth Recognition Awards

On May 28, 2025, CASO proudly revived the Youth Recognition Awards for the first time since the pandemic. Held at Bayview Yards with a spirited Hollywood theme, the evening brought together over 70 youth, their caregivers and foster families, CASO staff, and community members to celebrate the accomplishments of young people in care and to honour those who have passed. 

Awards recognized youth achievements in areas such as academic success, personal growth, leadership, identity, and advocacy. Youth arrived dressed in expressive, standout outfits, and the energy was electric—from excited photo booth snapshots to emotional moments on stage.

What made the event most powerful was the visible presence of each youth’s circle of support—caregivers, social workers, mentors, and family members applauding and cheering them on. The event provided a space where youth felt seen, valued, and celebrated for who they are and what they’ve overcome.

This year’s event was made possible thanks to the support of the CASO Foundation and corporate partner Cardel Homes, as well as a dedicated planning committee who ensured the event reflected the voices and spirit of youth themselves.

Have a Heart Day 2025

In February, CASO’s Indigenous Pod hosted an evening gathering for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children and caregivers in honour of Have a Heart Day. This national campaign is rooted in reconciliation and advocacy—calling on governments to ensure all Indigenous children can grow up safely at home, get a good education, be healthy, and feel proud of their identity.

This year’s event paid special tribute to Inuit traditions. The evening began with a lighting of the Qulliq, a traditional Inuit oil lamp, led by Sandra from Tungasuvvingat Inuit. The ceremonial lighting was followed by cultural games like the Musk-Ox Push and high jump, facilitated by Northern Knowledge. The space was filled with laughter and pride, as families shared stories, wrote letters to federal politicians, and took part in a collective act of advocacy.

These moments, filled with warmth and purpose, showed the importance of creating spaces where Indigenous identity is celebrated, and where youth can engage in reconciliation in action.

Have a Heart Day Inuit games

Youth Leadership Through Equity and Inclusion

Creating affirming spaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth

On May 15, 2025, CASO’s Queer Forum hosted the IDAHOBIT Community Resource Marketplace—a vibrant event in honour of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia. The event brought together queer youth in care, supportive adults, and over a dozen community organizations including CHEO, Ten Oaks Project, Youth Services Bureau, Family Services Ottawa, and Planned Parenthood.

Youth shared how much the event meant to them:

I was nervous to go because I didn’t know anyone… but now I’m glad I did. I talked to a lot of people, and I’m glad the event happened.

Kyrell, Youth Participant

Throughout the afternoon, youth accessed community resources, shared stories, and built connections. Guest speaker Vania Patrick-Drakes (former SOGIE Lead at OACAS) spoke to the ongoing overrepresentation of queer youth in care and the power of youth-led advocacy. The event showcased how affirming, celebratory spaces can foster healing, confidence, and community.

IDAHOBIT Community Fair

Everyday Engagement, Lasting Impact

In addition to large-scale events, CASO hosted dozens of youth engagement activities throughout the year, ranging from virtual game nights and barbecues to workshops, holiday celebrations, and youth-led forums. These events were designed not only to entertain, but to build connection, voice, and identity.

In every space—whether it was an awards ceremony, a cultural gathering, or a Friday night hangout—youth were at the helm: shaping the experience, telling their stories, and showing us what belonging truly looks like.