About Us
Welcome to Ignite Youth Centre — a dynamic hub for youth aged 12 to 19 to connect, create, and grow!
At Ignite, we offer a fun, supportive, and inclusive space where youth can explore their interests, express themselves, and build lasting connections. Whether you're into art, sports, leadership, music, games, volunteering, or just looking for a place to chill — there's something here for you.
We run a wide variety of programs and activities in areas like recreation, leadership, arts and culture, education, mental wellness, awareness, and community involvement. It’s a place to discover your strengths, build confidence, and get involved — all while having fun and meeting new people. We also team up with awesome local partners like the YWCA, CMHA, F&CS, Public Health, and TVDSB to bring even more opportunities and support to youth across St. Thomas and Elgin County.
Ignite is more than a youth centre — it’s your community hub. Drop in, explore what’s happening, and find your spark.
The Ignite Dream Team
Rachel
Youth Engagement Facilitator
Tyneisha
Youth Engagement Facilitator
Julie
Manager of Ignite Youth Centre
Spencer
Youth Engagement Facilitator
Jess
Youth Engagement Facilitator
Hailey
Youth Engagement Facilitator
Our History
For 20 years, Ignite Youth Centre has been a central part of the youth community in St. Thomas and Elgin County — but we didn’t always go by this name.
In 2005, we opened our doors as the Talbot Teen Centre, after local teens voiced a strong need for a space they could call their own. This came out of a community visioning process led by the United Way in 2001 called “Elgin in 5 Years,” followed by input directly from youth at local high schools. The message was clear: young people needed a safe, welcoming space to connect, create, and grow.
Ignite Youth Centre is operated by St. Thomas Elgin Youth and Employment Services — a registered charitable organization that has been delivering employment and support services across Elgin County since 1986. The Centre was established as a natural expansion of YECC’s long-standing work with youth.
As youth needs continued to evolve, so did we.
In 2020, we officially rebranded as Ignite Youth Centre — a new name that reflects our energy, creativity, and commitment to sparking growth, confidence, and community among youth aged 12 to 19. Ignite continues to offer a growing range of programs and opportunities — from recreation and leadership to art, mental wellness, and community involvement — all in a fun, inclusive environment.
We’re proud of where we’ve been — and excited for where we’re going.
Organizations We Proudly Partner With
