CP24 anchor Bakari Savage hosts CCAF scholarship event to celebrate youth in care
As a successful broadcast news anchor and reporter on Toronto’s CP24, Bakari Savage is accustomed to the spotlight. At the 2023 Catholic Children’s Aid Foundation (CCAF) Scholarship Event, however, Savage shone a light on tenacious Catholic youth in child welfare awarded bursaries for their post-secondary education.
“It was so special to walk around the room and ask the students about their hopes and dreams,” says Savage, the evening’s motivational speaker. “It can be really tough for these kids. These scholarships let them know that they’re not alone.”
CCAF: Bridging the Post-Secondary Education Gap
Statistics show that youth in children’s aid are 20 times less likely to pursue post-secondary education, and at a higher risk of poverty, homelessness and underemployment. It doesn’t help that the average cost of a four-year university degree in Canada today is $96,004.
That’s why CCAF scholarships are a godsend, enabling over 65 youth from extended care with the Catholic Children’s Aid Society of Toronto (CCAS) to attend college or university, teaching programs or apprenticeships each year.
Building support networks: Savage’s advice to scholarship recipients
Savage encouraged scholarship recipients to embrace their unique journey and to lean on each other. “I told them to commit to being each other’s support group,” he says. “These kids don’t have the same safety net that everyone else does.”
His inspiring words, and the fun vibe of the event hosted at a casual Toronto restaurant, were a hit. Based on youth feedback about formal scholarship events in the past, CCAF chose this innovative approach to put young people’s needs first.
“We totally revamped the night with games, prizes and Savage’s motivational talk—it was a real party,” says Diana Smith, Youth Readiness Lead at CCAS.
“We’re recognizing exceptional youth who have worked incredibly hard at school, against very difficult odds,” adds Jim Gilligan, Executive Director of the CCAF. “These kids deserve a special night to be honoured by their loved ones and a high-profile broadcast star.”
CCAF scholarships: How you can elevate youth
Savage urged bursary recipients to seek mentorship and stay focused on their goals, while also emphasizing the importance of asking for help when needed. When you donate to CCAF, you are providing the help these kids need to achieve a brighter future. You can donate today or call 416-395-1658 if you or your organization would like to explore funding a new CCAF bursary.
CCAF scholarships and the scholarship event raise up youth who are going to the next level in their life, says Savage. “They’re receiving something really special—support from their community, both emotional and financial.”
Read more stories about impactful CCAF programs.
Donate today to help us give more families a brighter future.
