Citizens for the Advancement of Community Development (CACD) lit up Candles Banquet Hall on Friday, August 22nd, 2025 with an evening of triumph and gratitude. The Graduation and Volunteer Recognition Ceremony, held under the theme Celebrating Growth, Service, and Community Impact, honoured young leaders and the community that supports them.
From the opening youth-led performance to heartfelt speeches from dignitaries and CACD leaders, the night pulsed with pride. Co-Founder Ron Cunningham reminded attendees that the celebration was about the volunteers, partners, and families who fuel transformation.
Programs That Build Leaders
In 2024–2025, more than 120 students in Peel participated in CACD’s YERCS and FLAME initiatives. These programs offered: tutoring, mentoring, and leadership development while introducing youth to skills often missed in classrooms: STEM, financial literacy, employability, creative arts, and emotional intelligence.
The reach extended beyond the students. Over 500 community members joined events, building bridges between youth and mentors. Results speak volumes: 80% of participants gained confidence in academics and future goals, and 76% now see themselves as leaders in school, or community life.
One student reflected, “The CACD FLAME program gave me a chance to: connect with like-minded individuals, learn about personal finance and employment, and enjoy trips that were both educational and engaging.”
Youth Voices of Gratitude
For many, the graduation ceremony was a milestone moment.
“My favourite part of the CACD FLAME summer program was Graduation,” said Vihaan Patel, a volunteer from Applewood Heights Secondary School. “It brought together all the friendships and lessons from the summer. Volunteering with CACD pushed me out of my comfort zone, built my leadership skills, and showed me I could make a difference.”
Fellow volunteer Kanika Vijayaranjan of St. Francis Xavier Secondary School agreed: “I had the chance to mentor youth while learning from them. CACD gave me space to grow personally and professionally. Being part of an organization that truly uplifts youth and communities has been inspiring.”
Parents See Lasting Impact
Parents echoed the transformation. Marina, whose son Daniel joined FLAME for the first time, shared:
“Each week offered something new: hands-on projects, teamwork, and memorable field trips. At first, Daniel hesitated to join, but within days he came home excited, sharing lessons at dinner. From STEM projects to resume-building and emotional intelligence workshops, FLAME shaped his skills for life.”
Celebration of Service
The evening featured a moving keynote by spoken-word artist and advocate Wali Shah, urging graduates to embrace their voices with courage. Certificates were awarded to graduates, while volunteers earned honors including: Leadership in Action, Volunteer of the Year, Above & Beyond Service, Mentorship Excellence, and the Spirit of CACD Award. Several also received the prestigious Ontario Volunteer Service Award.
Peel Regional Police leaders, including John Versluis and officers Piotr Kadylak and Mandeep Sehdev, joined the celebration, underscoring the value of collaboration in building safe and inclusive communities.
As the night closed with dinner and fellowship, one message stood out: unity, resilience, and excellence define CACD’s mission, and its youth are ready to lead.
