Ismail Aydin
Executive Director
Ismail brings 25+ years of experience in non-profit management. He is dedicated to creating scalable, sustainable community programs.
About PLAY
Building a foundation of high trust, transparency, and lifelong impact for Ottawa's youth.
Our Mission
To empower youth in Ottawa through structured mentorship, leadership training, and community engagement. We strive to provide a safe, inclusive environment where every young person can realize their full potential and become a positive force in society.
Our Vision
A community where every young person has the guidance, resources, and opportunities to lead a fulfilling life and inspire the next generation. We envision a future built on mutual respect, continuous learning, and shared success.
Our Impact by the Numbers
We measure our success by the tangible difference we make in the lives of the youth we serve.
85%
of participants report improved leadership skills after one year.
500+
youth matched with dedicated mentors since inception.
92%
high school graduation rate among active PLAY members.
Our Journey
2015 - The Beginning
PLAY was founded by a group of passionate educators and community leaders who recognized a gap in youth mentorship programs in Ottawa.
2018 - Program Expansion
Launched our dedicated Leadership Summit and introduced specialized STEM and Arts clubs, doubling our participant base.
2021 - Navigating Change
Successfully transitioned to a hybrid model, maintaining vital connections with students during challenging times through virtual mentorship.
Present - Scaling Impact
Celebrating over 500+ youth supported, expanding our annual camps, and forging new partnerships with local businesses for career readiness.
Leadership Team
John Smith
Director of Programs
An educator at heart, John oversees all mentorship and leadership initiatives, ensuring high-quality curriculum delivery.
Emily Chen
Community Outreach Coordinator
Emily builds essential partnerships with local schools and organizations to expand PLAY's reach and impact.
Financial Transparency
We are committed to operating with the highest level of financial integrity. Our annual reports and audited financials are available for review.