Where we’ve been
RAYS began in 2008 when Tony Fry launched the Rent-A-Youth Program, connecting local youth with homeowners in need of help with household chores. Dr. Ted Morgan was an early volunteer – connecting young people with interested clients. The program quickly gained strong community support and provided a valuable way for young people to earn money and build responsibility.
Around the same time, Tony and others also opened Ray’s Place, a small community hub where students could receive tutoring, seek advice, or access financial assistance. As the needs of local youth evolved, Rent-A-Youth gradually shifted focus toward encouraging and supporting post-secondary education.
Where we are 2012
In 2012, RAYS took a major step forward by beginning to offer financial support and mentoring for students pursuing university, college, or apprenticeship education. Community donations supported these efforts to help students, allowing RAYS to provide scholarships for university-bound students and bursaries for those entering college or apprenticeships.
Since awarding its first scholarship in 2012, RAYS has contributed over $700,000 to help local students pursue post-secondary education.
To reflect its broader mission, the organization officially adopted a new name in 2020:
RAYS – Resources for Area Youth Success.
As a volunteer-run non-profit, RAYS has been powered by the dedication of more than 60 volunteers, including mentors, committee members, and board members. Community support continues to grow, with over 70 donors currently contributing to the organization’s programs.
Moving forward in 2025
In 2025, RAYS refreshed its strategic plan, introducing key changes to expand and clarify support for local high school graduates pursuing undergraduate or apprenticeship education. These updates have enhanced the structure of the RAYS Awards Program, which now includes three distinct categories:
- University Awards – Multi-year Scholarship Awards (up to 4 years) and Awards of Merit (up to 2 years)
- College Awards – Funding for the first two years of study, and beyond where feasible
- Apprenticeship Awards – A one-time award to support students entering skilled trades
With a renewed vision and continued community support, RAYS remains committed to helping local youth succeed in their educational journeys and future careers.
RAYS Founder, Tony Fry (1937 – 2025)
When Tony Fry and his wife, Catherine, chose to make their home in Creemore, they brought with them more than just a love for the area—they brought a lasting gift to its youth. Fry had a long career with the YMCA, having been the director of Canada’s largest camp before launching his own HR consulting company. Tony, with years of experience working with young people, quickly recognized a need in the community. With support from a few dedicated community leaders, Tony introduced a program he had seen succeed elsewhere- "Rent-a-Youth," the initiative matched local teens with homeowners who needed help with weekend chores during the summer. Alongside others, he co-founded RAY’s Place—a welcoming space where students could gather, talk with mentors, receive tutoring, or access financial support. More important than the monetary aid was the guidance and learning the young people received. By 2012, Rent-a-Youth had evolved into a formal community organization with a mission to support local youth in pursuing post-secondary education. With growing community involvement, funds were raised to help older students access apprenticeships, colleges, and universities. A key feature of the program became its mentorship component—each student was paired with an adult mentor who provided ongoing guidance and encouragement.
Tony’s vision was always clear: to help young people recognize their own potential and pursue a better future, regardless of financial barriers. Thanks to Tony Fry’s passion and dedication, over 150 local students have benefited from the program to date. His legacy is woven into the lives and achievements of Creemore’s youth. Our community owes Tony a great debt of gratitude for his unwavering commitment to nurturing the potential of our young people.