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
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Josh Dewling
Executive Director
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Naomi Rutagwena
Youth Coordinator
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Gabe Piska
Program Manager
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Aaron Steenhof
Operations Manager
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Stephie Teta
Assistant Program Coordinator
Board of Directors
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Linda Roussel
President
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Noella Lee Pong
Vice President
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Stephanie Pearson
Treasurer
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Kendra Thompson
Secretary
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Mathew Omina
Director
Report
Community
This community report is only a small glimpse of the good work our team has been part of over the past year. Behind every number is a name, a story, and a relationship being built. I am continually humbled by every child, youth, and parent who walks through the doors of a Kids On Track program. It is a privilege to earn their trust and to be invited into their lives.
Thank you for standing with us. Your prayers and generosity allow us to remain focused on what matters most—investing in people and pointing them toward lasting hope.
Josh Dewling, Executive Director
2024/2025
Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.
Ecclesiastes 4:9 NLT