$70,500 OTF Grant Launches Summer Youth Rowing in Guelph
21 June 2025
Guelph, ON — On Saturday, local MPP Joseph Racinsky met with the team at the Guelph Rowing Club as they celebrated receiving a $70,500 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). This two-year grant has made possible the successful launch of the Junior Gryphons Summer Youth Rowing Program, introducing rowing to local youth aged 11 to 17.
“We live in what is arguably the most beautiful place in the world. I am so glad that through this funding the Guelph Rowing Club will be able to provide additional lessons for local youth interested in enjoying the outdoors and learning a new skill,” said Joseph Racinsky, MPP for Wellington—Halton Hills.
The program offers a fun, structured introduction to rowing—an inclusive, full-body sport proven to build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of fitness. Now operating in partnership with the University of Guelph and branded as the Junior Gryphons, the initiative provides a clear pathway into the Club’s fall and spring High School Rowing Programs, helping restore the region’s once-thriving school rowing scene.
“This grant has not only helped us grow the sport—it’s helped rebuild a vital youth program that teaches teamwork, dedication, and resilience,” said Odette Ziezold, Development Director at GRC.
The Guelph Rowing Club is a community-based, volunteer organization inspiring a life-long love of rowing in athletes ranging in age and ability. We strive to promote rowing excellence through structured programs, quality coaching and equipment. We aim to create an environment that ensures safety, enjoyment of all, and fosters friendships. Located in Guelph Eramosa Township, Wellington County, at Guelph Lake acknowledges that the club resides on the treaty land and territories of the Six Nations of the Grand River and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nations.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested nearly $105M into 732 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.