We are thrilled to share that the first-ever Press Start CoLab High School Program  was a huge success! Across the seven-week program (spanning October to December 2024), nine groups of Ontario high school students and members of the educational community came together to bring their ideas for positive change to life. 

We are so excited to share that all nine participating groups received grant funding from a total pool of $29,000, which includes the OTIP Changemaker Grant of $25,000. 

“I was interested in the CoLab High School Program because it seemed like a great opportunity to collaborate and work with others on meaningful projects, especially in areas like mental health. It seemed like a great way to help the community around me and it felt like a chance to make a difference while also learning from and collaborating with other schools.” – Student Participant 

Supporting youth mental health 

The program aimed to enhance student well-being by prioritizing youth mental health in schools. It concentrated on key areas, including de-stigmatizing mental health, building confidence and self-image, and creating safe spaces for connectedness. 

“The students began the project with an interest in the project for their own personal reasons; however, they are now taking on a leadership role within the school to reach out and make connections with isolated students to help them build self-confidence and have a sense of belonging. They want to make a difference.” – Group Leader 

Participants received mentorship and had the opportunity to learn from an inspiring keynote speaker, Anthony McLean. At the end of the program, student participants and their group leaders submitted their incredible final ideas for grant funding.  

Congratulations to all 2024 grant recipients 

Putting together a project proposal for grant funding in just 6 weeks is no easy feat. We could not be prouder to introduce this year’s  2024 CoLab High School Program grant recipients: 
 

The creativity, dedication, and passion demonstrated by student participants and their group leaders have laid the groundwork for positive change in the mental health landscape of Ontario’s high schools. Each of the nine participating groups have contributed innovative ideas and shown immense growth as young leaders committed to improving their communities.

“I really feel that the work of the CoLab High School Program is a call to action, and I really hope that all the students, staff and schools involved understand that addressing student youth mental health and wellness is critical for all grades across all identity markers. I really celebrate all of the youth and staff who have dedicated their time to this.” – Group Leader 

Congratulations to all who participated and thank you for your dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of youth. The journey doesn’t end here — it’s only just beginning. 

And a big thank you to our program partner, Teachers Life. We are incredibly grateful for their support in making this program a reality.  

Related articles: 

• New pilot program offers $25,000 in grants for students 

• Press Start’s 2024 CoLab High School Program: Innovation in Action