Kids On Track?

What is

Kids On Track is a community-building organization that provides hope, direction, and ongoing support for children, youth, and their parents.

Educational, social, spiritual, and recreational elements are combined to deliver well-rounded programs. We cultivate relationships, encouraging participants in faith, character and leadership development, social skills, and a healthy lifestyle. We strive to support families experiencing limited opportunities due to various socioeconomic challenges.

Kids On Track started in September of 1992. On October 31, 1995, Kids On Track was officially registered as a non-profit society in the province of Alberta. In August of 1996, we received our charitable status with the Government of Canada. This longevity has created credibility with families and other service providers such as schools, police, and social workers. Our long-term commitment to at-risk families builds trust and provides stability for children and youth.

Linda 

Our Founder,

In 1992, Linda Roussel, a dedicated community health nurse with a specialization in multicultural health services, founded Kids On Track. For over three decades, this organization has been a beacon of hope, tirelessly serving historically underserved children, youth, and parents in Edmonton. Linda's journey began as a response to the needs of the West Edmonton community, where she initiated a grassroots community outreach for children and their families. Fueled by a profound passion for nurturing responsible and contributing citizens among youth, Linda laid the framework for Kids On Track, building lives one child at a time.

Grounded in the powerful belief that "There are no hopeless kids, only kids without hope," Linda, supported by a handful of committed volunteers, introduced a weekly Saturday night program featuring puppets, games, lessons, and songs—a program that started as a small kids club and evolved into a transformative organization with multiple programs catering to kids, youth, and parents. Today, Kids On Track continues to deliver impactful community programs, embodying Linda's enduring legacy of compassion and positive change.

Linda retired in 2021 and continues to serve Kids On Track as President of the Board.

Core Values

Our

Authentic Faith

We have Authentic Faith, serving as Christ would serve.

Cultivating Community

We are Cultivating Community, making room for connection and belonging.

People First

We put People First in our decisions and actions.

Generous Hearts

We share our resources, time, and talents with Generous Hearts.

Pursuing Excellence

We are Pursuing Excellence, always putting our best foot forward.

Responsible Stewardship

We look after all we have been given through Responsible Stewardship.

Why Our Work Matters

“Our longevity in the community speaks to the commitment we have to our local families and demonstrates the responsibility we feel to our continued work. We have the experience and knowledge to help our participants be more effective. We are proud of the work we do and are committed to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of children and families in our community.”

MEET THE TEAM

MEET THE TEAM

Staff

  • Josh Dewling

    Executive Director

  • Kristy Chaisson

    Program Director

  • Gabe Piska

    Program Manager

  • Aaron Steenhof

    Operations Manager

  • Naomi Rutagwena

    Youth Coordinator

  • Stephie Teta

    Assistant Program Coordinator

Board of Directors

  • Linda Roussel

    President

  • Noella Lee Pong

    Vice President

  • Stephanie Pearson

    Treasurer

  • Kendra Thompson

    Secretary

  • Mathew Omina

    Director

Report

Community

This year, we’ve seen how God has faithfully brought the right people to Kids On Track—both as participants and as staff. Whether it’s families who are longing for connection or new team members with a heart for service, each person is here with a purpose. We are constantly reminded that God is working through this ministry to meet people exactly where they are, and we feel deeply blessed to be part of His plan to bring hope to those in need.

We are more committed than ever to providing a place where people can explore the Christian faith and find a community that loves and supports them. At Kids On Track, we believe that lasting hope can be found in faith. We’ve seen how a commitment to following Jesus can transform lives and bring hope to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. Our faith is the central pillar of our mission and leads us to serve local kids, youth, and parents, regardless of their background and beliefs.

Josh Dewling, Executive Director

2023/2024

But forget all that—it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.

Isaiah 43:18-20 NLT