Over the last 12 years, Kyla Hanlon has participated in countless activities at Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH). The 16-year-old recalls music programs, playing soccer, Friday drop-ins, and baton twirling.

“I also volunteered at Collingwood [Neighbourhood] School and of course, participated in gymnastics classes,” she says.

For Kyla, gymnastics is one activity that continues to impact her today.

Training as a Junior Coach with Gym Sense Gymnastics, a low-cost program offered at CNH year-round, Kyla now works alongside her former instructor. In this role, she continues to spend her time at CNH, teaching the sport to children in the community.

“She always has a smile to share with anyone that is new to the program or someone who is returning to the program,” says Lucinda Donaldson, Kyla’s former instructor and now colleague. “Kyla is one of the reasons why programs in the community are so important.”