Registration for the Anglican Foundation of Canada’s (AFC) fifth annual Say Yes! to Kids (SYTK) campaign is now open. The 2025 campaign will launch on April 22 and close on June 30. All parishes, dioceses, and organizations seeking to partner with AFC are asked to register by April 1.
Participation will be limited to 30 teams and registration is on a first-come-first-served basis. Teams will be asked to articulate a campaign goal and project focus at the point of registration. Most costs associated with youth projects and programs, including staffing, are eligible.
SYTK is an annual fundraising appeal sponsored by AFC. Launched in 2021 to encourage church-led pandemic recovery programs and initiatives, the SYTK movement has now provided $755,000 in funding to more than 150 beneficiaries and fundraising partners for youth-focused ministry and outreach across the Anglican Church of Canada.
“The top three ministry impact zones have been faith formation, arts and education, and outdoor recreation,” says AFC executive director Dr. Scott Brubacher. “It’s wonderful to see the year-over-year impact as so many churches and dioceses are using SYTK to invest in youth retreats, Vacation Bible Schools, and part-time staffing to revitalize children and youth ministry programs.” Other impact zones include food security and poverty reduction, reconciliation, and health and well-being.
At the close of the 2024 campaign AFC surveyed past SYTK participants. “Seventy-five percent of respondents told us they use SYTK to create a sustainable revenue stream for an ongoing ministry and that it’s an important source of funding for them,” says Brubacher. “We also heard how influential the AFC Angel Donor matching gift program has been to local campaigns. We are all very grateful to the lead donors who, over the past four years, have championed this cause with donations totaling more than $100,000.”
At the close of the 2025 campaign, teams will have secured a grant of 80 percent of the funds raised, including any matching gifts or leadership giving boosts provided by AFC. Campaign funds will be disbursed in August. The 20 percent share that is retained by AFC will build up the Kids Helping Kids Fund to enable even more youth-focused grants across Canada.
Visit www.anglicanfoundation.org/apply/sytk to register today.
For more information contact: Michelle Hauser, development & communications officer, Anglican Foundation of Canada
Hamilton Hall, Hawkesbury — Stormont Deanery