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FILMIC VIDEO CAMPAIGN FOR WINDSOR YOUTH CENTRE

“YOUTH IN DANGER”

 

An emotional series exploring the crisis of youth homelessness. Told through six immersive stories based on real experiences, urging viewers to face reality and take action.

 

CLICK AND WATCH THEIR STORIES UNFOLD

“PARENTAL ABUSE”
The echoes of past violence break through a locked door.

“CONSTANT THREAT”
While the city sleeps, he clings to what little he has — until the night turns violent.

“BEST FRIEND”
She can’t afford kindness for herself, but she won’t let her best friend go hungry.

“SEARCHING”
She walks where others celebrate. Eyes down, stomach empty.

“NO ACCEPTANCE”
When being yourself means losing everything…
Love becomes exile.

“WHAT THEY SEE”
You see a bench, a ditch, a public washroom.
They see a lifeline.

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THE HELIOS APPROACH:
HOW AND WHY?


THEIR CHALLENGE

Youth homelessness in Windsor is a critical but often overlooked crisis. Many young people face hardship, instability, and isolation, while the wider community remains unaware of the severity and complexity of their struggles.

The Windsor Youth Centre needed a way to shine a light on these real-life stories to raise awareness, inspire empathy, and drive donations that directly support vulnerable youth on their journey toward stability and success.

 
Parental Abuse commercial screenshot — abusive father returns home ahead of schedule
 

OUR SOLUTION

We created a sensitive, multi-platform video campaign featuring 6 emotionally impactful films, each telling authentic, deeply personal stories of youth facing homelessness.

By capturing a full spectrum of experiences, from hardship and struggle to hope and triumph, we crafted a cinematic narrative that both educates and motivates.

Each video concludes with a clear, compelling call to action, assuring viewers that every donation goes directly to the Windsor Youth Centre’s essential programs providing care and transformative support for these young people.

 
Parental Abuse commercial screenshot — moments before the chaos begins
 

THE RESULT

The campaign resonated deeply, accumulating millions of views across social media platforms, YouTube, and theatre pre-show advertising.

Its raw, visceral storytelling sparked widespread conversation and controversy due to its unflinching portrayal of youth homelessness — at times nearly triggering for viewers.

This bold approach heightened awareness, fostered community empathy, and drove significant donations, while strengthening local support and collective responsibility for the Windsor Youth Centre’s mission.

 
Searching for Food commercial screenshot — a homeless teen wanders the streets looking for something to eat
 

DIRECTOR’S VISION

This campaign required a deeply empathetic approach to the visual storytelling. We received strong support from local businesses and community groups, who generously provided shooting locations, actors, and resources — making this a true community effort.

 

Each story was told through a character-focused lens, immersing viewers in the lives of troubled youths. By putting audiences in their shoes, the films evoke a visceral experience that feels as unsettling as a horror film, not through manufactured scares, but by simply presenting reality raw and unfiltered.

Our goal was to reveal the harsh truths faced by homeless youth in Windsor without sugarcoating or sensationalizing their experiences. This authenticity was designed to jolt viewers out of complacency and inspire urgent action.

Ultimately, this campaign is not just about hardship; it’s about hope, resilience, and the powerful impact of community support — all presented through a cinematic lens that honors the dignity and complexity of every youth’s story.

- Jendo Shabo, Director

 
Director Jendo Shabo on set before filming an intense, emotional scene

On set with Actor Brandon Chappus, moments before an intense scene.


 
 
 
 

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