In the past three years, we have been grateful to receive grants and support from ArtReach and the Toronto Arts Council that have allowed us to offer two weeks of free camps for 2SLGBTQ+ youth every summer. This programming has been a part of the foundation that’s made the Rainbow Circus community what it is today.

To carry on the legacy of these camps, we are offering our Rainbow Camp on a sliding scale model this year to balance financial accessibility with business sustainability. While all of our camps and classes are eligible for sport funding, and community scholarships, we recognize the unique barriers that teens experience in accessing recreational athletic programming, especially those identifying as part of 2SLGBTQ+ communities.

Sliding scale pricing models recognize that people have different access to finances, often because of historical inequity and ongoing oppression. With this model, we’re working to provide different pricing options so that folks can choose the tuition tier that best meets their needs. You know your finances best, please consider the options below and choose the tuition tier that seems like the best match for you.

It’s an imperfect experiment but we hope it’s an opportunity to grow in alignment with our values please feel free to give us feedback.

Sliding scale options:

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Tier 1: $128.75

For those struggling to consistently meet their basic monthly expenses, with little to no savings, may be living within one or multiple marginalized identities. Unemployed or under-employed, without other sources of financial support. Affording the full camp tuition would be entirely out of reach without a sliding scale spot. 

Tier 2: $257.50

For folks who are regularly able to meet their monthly expenses and sometimes have room for extras. You may need to budget for this expense and pay over time, but would find the full cost of tuition a barrier to participation. People who are underemployed or whose income may fluctuate significantly from month to month (self-employed folks, gig workers, or those in the service industry). 

Tier 3: $386.25

For folks who are regularly able to meet their monthly expenses, and afford extras outside of them. The cost of participation may require looking at your budget, but wouldn’t impact your ability to meet your basic needs. Those with secure employment, but whose income may fluctuate. You may have some savings or other supports but could use a bit of help with this expense. 

Tier 4: $515.00

For people who can afford their monthly expenses as well as recreational activities without significant stress. If you have savings and investments, own your own home, and can afford the tuition without any hardship this tier is for you. 

Tier 5: $565.00

The full cost of programming, plus a bit extra. For folks with assets to redistribute to community members. You feel financially comfortable and are able to make large purchases without consulting your budget. You may have inherited wealth and historical privilege, and live in a multi-income home with earners making a good wage.

You can find the camp signup form here.

Questions? Send us an email: rainbowcirque@gmail.com