Welcome to Willowgrove

Willowgrove is a land-based, not-for-profit organization known for our focus on outdoor experiences for people of all ages. Since 1968, Willowgrove has offered camping, outdoor education, and recreation programs year-round to our community and beyond.

Our Mission

Willowgrove is a Christian organization that seeks to nurture the spiritual, social, emotional and physical growth of children and youth through a variety of programs in a natural setting. In pursuit of this mission, Willowgrove is committed to:

Nurturing Growth
We facilitate physical, emotional, spiritual, and social development.
Welcoming Community
We embrace diverse relationships, accountability, acceptance, and belonging.
Building Peace
We champion justice, hope and healing.
Honouring Land
We participate in conservation, sustainability, reconciliation and conversation.
Cultivating Learning
We encourage inquiry, discovery and transformational education.

Our History

In 1968, Willowgrove was purchased by three Mennonite share-holders from the Markham/Stouffville community: Emmerson McDowell, Nicholas Dick, and Glen Brubacher. Each founder had their own vision for the work of Willowgrove, which remain as the key arteries for our mission today. Together they drafted this statement: “Willowgrove’s purpose is to assist individuals, families, and groups to develop a sense of personal worth, community spirit, service to mankind, and to appreciate the world in which we live.”

For Emmerson, Willowgrove’s primary operation was to serve city children. He loved the woods and the stream, and saw the farm as a place to inspire wholesome values, and provide a setting for children to experience the majesty of nature.

Nicholas, on the other hand, saw the farm more as a retreat. A place where the community could come to garden, experience weekend camping trips, and receive respite from the stress and busyness of everyday life.

Glen saw Willowgrove farm as a place where troubled children could experience the love and care of responsible people. Where children could experience security, acceptance, and where nature and the great outdoors could bring healing to their pain.