What is Pics in the 6ix?
The TTC is the centrepiece to our exploration of Toronto. Using the subway's Line 1 and Line 2, groups of no more than 5 youth and 1 adult will be presented with a list of riddles they need to solve. Solving the riddle, and taking the appropriate picture, gets you points. Points gets you prizes! Some potential spots include Scotiabank Arena, Ripley's Aquarium, the Rogers Centre, the CN Tower, the ROM, Queen's Park and more!
We've also partnered with Horizons for Youth to learn a little more about the 2018-2020 National Youth Project: youth homelessness. In that vein we will also be putting together small packages of toiletries that are needed by shelters to help those that come to them for help.
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Is there a cost?
Yes. Each attendee is asked to pay $20.
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How long is the hunt?
The event is set to take place all weekend!
Drop off: after 7pm on May 1
Pick up: 12pm on May 3
Friday: we'll be chatting and playing icebreakers to get to know those attending! We will also be packing our care packages of donated goods.
Saturday: is the big day! Saturday morning will start with breakfast, and some brief information on Sunday's service. At 10am we will be in the sanctuary to hear a few members of Horizons for Youth talk about their experiences working with youth homelessness. After that, it's off for the hunt, which will take the rest of the day. We'll gather again at SPLC, have dinner, and while small groups work on their assigned parts of Sunday's service, leaders will count up points and determine the winner!
Sunday: we'll wake up, have breakfast, pack up and get ready for worship! Youth are free to go once worship has concluded (11:30-12pm).
For a detailed schedule, click here!
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But what do I bring?!
We've got you covered right here. (Psst, it's a link!)
NOTE: we are not responsible for the loss or damage to anything you bring with you. We do not have a television for your playstation, and there is no space to lock up things like tablets or laptops should you choose to bring them. If there is a very specific reason you need something that you are concerned about bringing, please e-mail us ASAP.
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Where am I sleeping?
At St Philip's Lutheran Church, so be prepared to sleep on the floor! This is why we suggest an air mattress or related cushy substance to sleep on. We have plenty of space though, so don't worry about being stuffed in a tiny room like sardines.
NOTE: SPLC does not have showers!
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What about food?
We will be providing breakfast on Saturday and Sunday, dinner on Saturday and snacks on Friday night. Saturday lunch will be at your discretion while on the hunt. Cash will be provided for lunch on Saturday.
If you would like to bring snacks, that is your choice! As of April 6, as a general guideline, we suggest using school board rules for snacks (eg: nut free).
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Toronto is huge and terrifying. How will I know I/my youth will be safe?
We have taken every possible precaution to ensure the safety of all involved in Pics in the 6ix, especially the TTC trip itself. It's extremely important that youth feel this is a way they can explore what is a massive city, without the risk of getting lost.
a) Team Assignments
Each team is no more than 5 (five) youth with 1 (one) adult volunteer. This is actually dictated by the day passes we purchase from the TTC to allow us to get on and off the subway, streetcars and buses all day. Additionally, it is in the rules of the hunt that no team is allowed to separate. Photos must include your entire team, minus one person who is the photographer. Photos that do not adhere to this are not counted for points.
b) Travel
Participants will take 1 (one) bus to the subway. The rest of the clues are within walking distance of various subway stations along the way. We have also limited the number of subway stations youth and their teams will be using to solve riddles. This sets a boundary.
c) Geography
We will be providing maps. Additionally, youth and volunteers are encouraged to download map software and use local businesses if they do not feel comfortable using their data. Toronto is full of Starbucks, and other establishments with internet access.
d) Designated Waiting Areas
These are signs in every subway station along Lines 1 and 2 (green and yellow in this photo). As per hunt rules, this is the spot used in the very rare event someone gets separated from their group. NOTE: in our 5 years of running this hunt, this has never happened, thanks to the rule that teams must stick together.
e) Contact Information
Every team will have contact information for leaders in case of emergency.
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What if I don't have signed waiver forms?
The waiver forms cover allowing us to take you off of SPLC grounds. If you do not have signed waivers prior to the beginning of the event, we cannot send you/your youth on the hunt. It's that simple. This was outlined in the registration form.
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I would prefer my child's photo not be used outside of totalling points for the scavenger hunt.
We absolutely understand this. The waiver separates their participation, from using their photo and likeness outside of the scavenger hunt requirements. If you would prefer your child's photo not be used in public spheres (including posting on publicly accessible social media) simply let us know via the consent form.
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