Membership

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Top of the City Sports Equity Initiative works with organizations across Canada that are committed to helping children access sport, recreation, and physical activity programming. Our member network brings together organizations that share a common objective: offering safe, engaging, and development-focused programming at rates that remain accessible to families.

 

Why join TOTC?

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Running high-quality children’s programming can be challenging. Organizations must balance affordability for families with the practical costs of delivering safe, consistent, and engaging programs.

Top of the City supports eligible members by helping them strengthen their programming, improve accessibility, and connect with resources that can reduce barriers to participation.

 

Approved members may benefit from:

• access to a growing network of organizations committed to sports equity;

• opportunities to collaborate with community partners and sponsors;

• administrative resources and practical support;

• assistance identifying opportunities to maintain affordable programming;

• participation in initiatives designed to improve access for underserved communities;

• increased visibility through Top of the City programs and partnerships;

• participation in the Equity in Play Scholarship program.

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The support available to each organization may vary based on its programming, community needs, available resources, and alignment with Top of the City’s mandate.

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Who Can Apply?

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Organizations that deliver children’s or youth sport, recreation, and physical activity programming may apply for membership.

Applicants may include community organizations, local clubs, program providers, and other groups that share Top of the City’s commitment to accessible programming and childhood development.

Membership applications are reviewed individually. Acceptance is not automatic.

 

What We Consider

 

As part of the application process, Top of the City considers factors such as:

• the age group and community served;

• the nature and quality of the programming;

• the program’s focus on childhood development, recreation, and physical activity;

• the affordability and accessibility of the program for families;

• the organization’s commitment to inclusion and participation;

• the organization’s insurance coverage and operational practices;

• the anticipated benefit of membership to participating children and families; and

• alignment with Top of the City’s broader sports equity mandate.

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Top of the City may request supporting information as part of the review process, including program descriptions, registration rates, insurance documentation, and other information relevant to the application.

 

Supporting Sustainable and Affordable Programming

 

Top of the City recognizes that there is no single solution to improving access to children’s programming.

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Different organizations face different barriers. Depending on the needs of an approved member and the resources available, Top of the City may help identify practical opportunities to reduce program-delivery costs, improve access, strengthen community partnerships, or create additional participation opportunities.

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Our goal is to support sustainable programs that can serve more children while continuing to offer meaningful value to families.

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Equity in Play Scholarship

 

The Equity in Play Scholarship helps eligible children access programming offered through Top of the City’s approved member network.

 

Parents and guardians may apply for assistance where financial circumstances may otherwise prevent a child from participating.

 

Applications are reviewed based on available funding and applicable eligibility criteria. Approved assistance is applied toward eligible programming offered through a member organization.

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Our Commitment

 

Top of the City is committed to responsible administration, transparency, and positive outcomes for children.

Member organizations are expected to maintain appropriate insurance coverage, follow applicable safety and operational requirements, and deliver programming in a manner that is consistent with Top of the City’s mandate.

 

Apply for Membership

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Organizations interested in joining the Top of the City member network are invited to contact us to request additional information about the application process.

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Contact  topofthecitysoccerfestival@gmail.com  for application support and eligibility help.