The community of Kingsville is helping shape a new home for its teens, right down to the name on the front door. After gathering input from local youth, families, and supporters, Youth Unlimited YFC’s new youth centre will be called “The Anchor,” a name chosen to reflect stability, safety, and a sense of belonging.
The Anchor
Youth Unlimited YFC is excited to announce a new dedicated space in Kingsville in the East Kingsville Square, located at 313 Main Street, Unit 14, in Kingsville. The site is currently under renovation, with hopes of opening in the new year, and community members are encouraged to watch the organization’s website and Facebook page for updates about the official opening date.
When it opens, The Anchor plans on hosting multiple programs, including drop-in times, food, arts, and sports opportunities for local youth.
Youth in Kingsville are gaining a new place to belong, thanks to Youth Unlimited YFC, a Christian faith-based organization that welcomes all youth regardless of background or belief. With a presence in more than 100 countries and a history spanning over 80 years, Youth Unlimited YFC is now growing its impact locally through programs designed to give teens a safe, free, and welcoming space after school.
A Global Mission with Local Roots
Our local ministry is led by its Satellite Director Tim Dyck, the only local employee, who grew up in Kingsville and understands firsthand the needs and character of the community.
“Local youth in Kingsville have limited free, safe, and engaging options for after-school activities, especially those that help them feel connected and supported,” Tim explains.
“Many teens need something to do that is positive, welcoming, and does not cost money, which is why all programs will be free, or very low cost to attend.”
The goal is to create a place where students can build relationships, have fun, and feel seen and valued, and have a greater sense of hope and purpose.
Current Programs for Teens
Right now, Tim is helping out with an after-school program at Erie Migration District School every Friday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Any student who attends EMDS from Grades 9 to 12 is welcome. After sports and activities wrap up, youth are offered a meal, and a space to talk, should they wish. Since they began their work one year ago, participation on Friday nights has doubled.
In addition, twice a month on Fridays, a food program is offered out of the high school library in partnership with Kingsville Lutheran Church, where enough food is prepared to feed approximately 180 people. They have served over 800 meals to date.
Safety, Training and Volunteers
Youth Unlimited YFC is committed to welcoming all youth, regardless of belief or background, and creating a non-judgmental environment.
Tim is not a counsellor, but he holds training in ASIST (suicide prevention), mental health first aid, standard first aid, CPR, and also has a certificate in biblical studies.
In January 2026, he will officially become a credentialed member of clergy through the organization Youth Unlimited YFC Canada. He was touched when one young man said, “You are my favourite adult to talk to.”
Youth are referred to trained professionals when needed and they hope to have a counsellor available in the future.
Everyone else involved locally serves as a volunteer and must go through an application process.
The organization operates with insurance and charitable status, with administrative support coming from its head office in Woodstock.
Community Support and Growing Impact
Thus far, Youth Unlimited YFC in Kingsville does not receive government funding and is fully supported through community donations and partnerships. Recently, Kingsville Youth Unlimited YFC held its first annual fundraising banquet at Grovedale Arts and Culture Centre, which Tim describes as a huge success, helping to fuel the next phase of programming.
Financial support can be offered as one-time gifts or ongoing monthly contributions, with tax receipts provided.
How to Get Involved
Tim, a father of four, often says he consistently asks the community for three things: prayer, volunteers, and financial partnerships. As The Anchor Youth Centre opens and continues to grow in Kingsville, Tim hopes to partner with local ministries and community services, not to duplicate what already exists, but to complement and strengthen the support network available to young people.
Youth Unlimited YFC’s presence in Kingsville is built on a simple belief: local youth have tremendous potential, and many just need connection, encouragement, and something positive to do. In providing that space, The Anchor aims to become a place where teens feel known, supported, and rooted in their community.
Enjoy this video about YFC in Kingsville.
To learn more, contact Tim by email at tim.d@kingsvilleyfc.com or call (519) 919-7173
