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Who is eligible to join Smartbox?

Smartbox is open to young people ages eleven to eighteen who live or attend school in Scarborough. The program is designed for youth who benefit from structured routines mentorship academic support emotional guidance or a positive after school environment. All skill levels are welcome and no boxing experience is required. Smartbox reviews each registration individually to determine program fit and ensure a safe supportive experience for every participant.

Registration begins with an online intake form that collects information about the youth their interests goals and any support needs. After the form is submitted our team follows up with the parent guardian or referring professional to confirm details and discuss next steps. Completing the form does not guarantee placement but it begins the intake process that helps us determine eligibility and ensure the program is the right fit.

Each session includes structured boxing training mentorship check ins academic support and a healthy meal. Youth participate in routines that build physical conditioning emotional regulation communication skills and academic confidence. The environment is supportive structured and guided by trained staff who focus on personal growth and safety.

Smartbox runs sessions per week for twelve consecutive weeks in each cohort. Sessions take place after school to ensure a consistent schedule that supports routine building and daily engagement.

Yes Smartbox is completely free for all participants thanks to support from community partners and funders. Meals tutoring counselling and one year gym membership are all provided at no cost to families.

No experience is required. Smartbox is built for youth at all skill levels and coaches adjust training based on each participants comfort and ability. Boxing is used as a structured discipline that builds confidence focus and respect.

Safety is a core priority. Coaches mentors and staff are trained in youth supervision trauma informed approaches and conflict resolution. Sessions are supervised closely and all physical activity follows controlled non contact methods. Parents are encouraged to share any medical or support information so staff can prepare the safest environment possible.

Youth do not need to bring equipment. Smartbox provides gloves hand wraps and all training materials. Participants should wear comfortable athletic clothing and clean indoor shoes.

Each week youth participate in academic sessions where tutors support homework literacy numeracy and school related skills. Academic support helps youth strengthen focus improve organization and feel more confident in school.

Participants have access to up to six confidential one on one sessions with a trained counsellor during each cohort. Counselling focuses on emotional regulation communication stress management and personal challenges. The goal is to support the whole person not just their physical development.

Youth who complete the program receive a full year membership at Red Owl Boxing which gives them continued access to the gym and supervised youth sessions. This helps maintain routines and ensures that positive habits continue long after the cohort ends.

Smartbox maintains communication with referring schools and agencies when appropriate with consent to support attendance engagement and overall development. The program works alongside educators and youth workers to create consistent structure for participating students.

Yes Smartbox accepts referrals from teachers guidance staff youth workers and Toronto Police Services Divisions. Referrals can be made through the same online registration form or by contacting the Smartbox team directly.

Staff reach out early when attendance drops to understand the barrier and support families in improving consistency. Attendance is a key part of program success and we work with youth to rebuild routines and habits that carry into school as well.

Smartbox communicates with families by phone email or text depending on preference to share updates discuss attendance and support ongoing involvement.

Youth who meet attendance expectations and show continued commitment may be invited to join later cohorts or continue through a membership pathway after completing the initial program.

Youth who participate in Smartbox often show stronger attendance patterns improved confidence better communication skills and greater emotional stability. These improvements lead to healthier decision making and increased engagement at school home and in the community.

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