KiDZONE Urban Ministries
KiDZONE originated in July 1995 as a weekly summer outreach, inspired by an inner-city internship program in Brooklyn, NY, called Metro Ministries. Catching Koinonia’s vision for outreach and drawing upon the NY experience, KiDZONE began and received a tremendous community response. The Koinonia family rallied to support this outreach financially and with prayer. Since then, KiDZONE has grown to develop many programs that help meet the needs of the city.
KiDZONE’s emphasis is on children, but values building relationships that extend beyond the children into the entire family unit. All KiDZONE’s programs are dedicated to accomplishing this. KiDZONE is now reaching IN THE ZONE to more than 200 kids and their families, seeing lives affected and impacted.
KiDZONE Weekly Programs
KiDZONE operates from September to June at two different locations in Kitchener-Waterloo. Both sites are stationed at community centres in areas where there is identifiable need. The weekly program operates at the following times:
Chicopee Centerville Community Centre
Tuesdays, 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Victoria Hills Community Centre
Thursdays, 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Mike Beecraft - Executive Director
Mike has a heart for the kids and families in the Waterloo Region and desires to see a positive change in their lives. Mike started as a volunteer with KiDZONE and now provides vision and direction to staff and volunteers in order to impact the families of our city today. Mike is excited about what is being accomplished by KiDZONE now, and the possibilities of increased reach and effectiveness in the future.
Julie Beecraft - Event Coordinator
After a week in Brooklyn, NY visiting Metro Ministries, Julie developed a passion to impact the lives of kids and began to volunteer with KiDZONE. Julie is the driving force behind the major events KiDZONE puts on such as Shining Star and Mom’s Day, making sure these events are effective and enjoyable for the families.
(A big thanks to Jessica Fortin for currently helping to cover Julie’s maternity leave. Congrats, Mike & Julie!)
Nelson Dunk - Program Coordinator
Beginning as a volunteer, Nelson saw how positive messages can be communicated to kids through effective programs and media and began writing skits, lessons, songs and video projects to support the KiDZONE After School Program. Nelson continues to support KiDZONE’s programs through design and video and still believes that kids can be reached through positive personal relationships.
Our Mission & Vision
Our Vision
Impacting our generation today to build towards a better tomorrow.
Our Mission
We will inspire and empower a generation to make positive choices.
Our Core Values
We believe in helping people to pursue lives that are purpose driven.
We believe that personal integrity empowers positive influence.
We believe in loving people personally and practically.
