A local youth organization in Grey County is getting a major financial boost to help ensure it can continue serving the community.
Chapman’s Ice Cream has announced a five-year funding commitment totaling $125,000 to the The Hanley Institute in Flesherton.
The Institute, founded in 2019 by Jenny Hanley, supports youth aged 12 and up across Grey County. The organization provides a range of programs focused on building life skills, confidence, and mental well-being, with more than 100 students attending weekly.
Programs include after-school activities, camps, workshops, and one-on-one sessions covering topics such as anxiety, anger management, substance use, self-esteem, and other challenges facing youth.
The funding comes after the Institute raised concerns about its ability to continue operating due to limited financial resources.
Chapman’s says its contribution — $25,000 annually over five years — will help cover essential operating costs, including utilities and building maintenance, allowing the organization to continue delivering its programs.
Ashley Chapman, Chief Operating Officer of Chapman’s, says “As a company we always try to support our community where it matters the most and we are proud to be able to support The Hanley Institute. Teenage years are often defining in people’s lives. The guidance and support that the Institute offers to our youth is essential for many, and there are no other programs in the area that provide such support.”
Hanley says the donation is greatly appreciated and will help the organization continue its work at a time when many non-profits are facing increased financial pressure and competition for funding. “There are many increasing challenges faced by non-profit organizations in today’s environment. As the number of non-profits continues to rise, more groups are competing for the same pool of government funding. While community members remain generous, their capacity to donate and support multiple organizations is being stretched thinner each year. We deeply appreciate Chapman’s support that will allow us to keep going and so what we love.”
The Institute plans to continue fundraising efforts to expand its services, including providing daily healthy snacks and maintaining its wide range of youth programming.