CELEBRATING 40 YEARS


The story of Living Rock is one of trailblazing vision and a deep calling to youth on the fringe.
From the very beginning, Founders Al and Karen Craig stepped into the streets with Christ’s heart—reaching young people in the cultural language they understood: music, drama, relationships, food, and a place to belong. With faithful supporters by their side, they prayed for discernment at every step, trusting God for direction and provision.
Over the decades, the ministry has grown and adapted to meet youth where they are at—addressing their needs through free meal programs, groceries and clothing, life-skills workshops, employment training, housing support, parenting guidance, and Chaplaincy.
From the earliest days, youth have been invited not just to receive support but to contribute, to lead, and to discover their own worth. Early work crews and hands-on roles have evolved into structured programs that foster confidence, responsibility and purpose.
Since our humble beginning at the Hamilton Public Library, more than 20,000 unique youth have walked through our doors and found a place of safety, belonging and community where they are seen, heard and celebrated.
The memories of these years are countless: late-night outreach, vibrant coffee houses, summer car washes, camping trips, drama nights and shared meals; successful employment and new pathways of stability and out of poverty.
As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we pause to honour the thousands of youth who have walked through our doors, the community that has journeyed alongside us, and the staff, volunteers, and supporters who have made this work possible. Together, we look forward with thanksgiving and hope—committed to ensuring that Living Rock continues to be a safe, welcoming place for generations to come.
Our Journey
1985
Living Rock opens its doors with a vision to create a safe place for youth in Hamilton.
1990s-2000s
- Oasis Coffee House Programs expand to include meals, emergency shelter supports, employment training, and recreation.
- Street Light Concerts.
- Summer Youth Project.
- 1999 Purchased the building at 30 Wilson Street.
2010s
- 2002 the TRI-Rock Employment Program begins.
- Soupfest Annual Fundraiser began in 2002
- New partnerships and community initiatives strengthen resources for youth in housing, health and employment.
- 2003 Anti-Racism Initiative brings Arts of August to life.
- 26 Wilson St Building is purchased
- 2004 Wellness Works Program launches supporting Pregnant & Parenting Youth
- 2026 Rock-In-Action Program begins
- Gang Prevention Strategy (GPS) runs 2008-2011
Today
Living Rock serves over 1,200 youth annually, providing essential needs, life skills, and hope for the future.
Honouring the Past, Celebrating the Present,
Building the Future
As we celebrate this milestone, we reflect with gratitude on the many youth whose courage and resilience have inspired us, the staff and volunteers who have faithfully served, and the donors and community partners who have made this work possible.
Join the Celebration
Throughout 2025, we will be marking this special anniversary with stories, events, and opportunities to get involved:
40th Anniversary
Celebration Event
Thursday November 20th
at The Gasworks,
141 Park St North.
Stories of
Impact
Youth and alumni sharing their journeys
Community
Partnerships
Highlighting the many who make this work possible
Ways to Give
& Get Involved
Ensuring the next 40 years of hope and opportunity


