On this International Youth Day, we’re proud to recognize the inspiring volunteer work of Sarah Wilkins, Security Coordinator at Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority (WDBA), who is helping make a difference in the lives of youth in Windsor, Ontario.
Sarah is deeply committed to supporting young people experiencing homelessness. Since October 2022, she has been part of a research team at St. Clair College focused on preventing youth homelessness. The project, Identifying and Developing Youth Homelessness Prevention Strategies through Respondent-Driven Sampling and Intersectionality, brings together professors, students, and graduates from the Social Justice and Legal Studies program.
Through funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), the team partnered with local organizations like Family Services Windsor-Essex, the Windsor Youth Centre, and the Windsor Residence for Young Men. Their research involved speaking directly with youth aged 16 to 24 who have faced homelessness, to better understand their experiences and needs. This important work aims to reshape how support programs are designed and delivered in Windsor-Essex.
Sarah presented these research findings at the Congress of the Humanities and Social Sciences Conference at George Brown College in June. She also attended the We-Spark Health Research Conference. She was chosen to volunteer with the conference’s LEARN Program, which connects researchers with individuals who have lived experiences related to homelessness and health challenges.
Beyond her research work, Sarah gives back in hands-on ways. She volunteered at the Windsor Youth Centre, serving hot meals and distributing care packages filled with hygiene products, snacks, and essentials. She also took part in the “Rough Night Out” fundraiser for the Windsor Residence for Young Men, spending a night outside without shelter to raise awareness and support for youth homelessness programs. The event raised more than $7,000 (CDN).
“I’m very passionate about helping others and giving back to the community,” says Sarah. “That’s the main reason why I was interested in the project in the first place.”
Sarah’s compassion and dedication reflect WDBA’s values of caring deeply about others and leading with integrity. On International Youth Day, we thank Sarah and all those working to support and uplift young people in our communities.
