YOUTH BELONG HERE

Build skills, lead with confidence, and form genuine connections through meaningful leadership and volunteer experiences.

Become a youth volunteer

Youth Volunteer Corps

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  • “Through the Youth Central program, I've been able to express myself in a way unlike any other program I've tried… [and its] allowed me to get closer to my goals.”

    Youth Central Participant

  • “[Youth Central] has helped me realize that there are many ways an individual can contribute to help the community. I learned, through the many different projects, that even just 2 hours of my time can have such a significant impact on the less fortunate and I’m very grateful I get to experience helping with that.”

    Youth Central Participant

  • “My time at Youth Central has been the best ever in my entire life… each project has made me better than I ever was… Youth Central has made me love knowing more about people and talking to them than I ever thought I wanted to, it has and is making me to be myself more around people I don't know and be more open than I ever thought I could be!”

    Youth Central Participant

  • “I love feeling included in such a meaningful thing, having stuff to do in my free time that helps others is just so mentally satisfying. Personally, I take a sense of pride away from this, not just in myself, but in the community of youth I am surrounded with.”

    Youth Central Participant

Where Calgary youth build community

At Youth Central, we create real opportunities for young people to step up, get involved, and make an impact. Through volunteer projects, leadership programs, youth-led events, grants, and media platforms, Calgary youth build confidence, friendships, and skills that last far beyond high school.

You can feel confident knowing our programs are structured, supportive, and designed to help youth grow in safe, positive environments alongside trusted community partners. When young people are given the chance to contribute, they don’t just build stronger resumes—they build stronger communities.

About us

We empower youth
to build community

Our impact

39K+

volunteer hours powered by youth

153%

growth in youth-led projects since 2019 

3,460+

youth taking action in their communities 

146

community organizations supported 

95%

make new friends 

93%

build stronger teamwork and communication skills

Our 
programs

When young people are given real opportunities to step up, amazing things happen. Our programs are designed to help youth grow not just as volunteers—but as confident, connected, and capable leaders.

Confidence

Gain the courage to try new things, share their ideas, and trust in their abilities.

Leadership

Develop real-world skills like teamwork and communication through hands-on experience.

Belonging

Build genuine friendships and be part of a supportive community that welcomes you as you are.

Purpose

See the direct impact of your efforts and discover how you can make a difference in your community.

See all programs

All programs

Events

All Events

  • Youth of Distinction Awards

    Celebrating the youth shaping our city.

    YODA honours young leaders making an impact and recognizes the many ways youth show up, lead, and inspire.

    Youth of Distinction Awards

  • GRADitude Project

    Celebrating every graduate, without barriers.

    GRADitude provides free outfits and essentials, so students can step into graduation feeling confident, supported, and proud.

    GRADitude Project

News

Read all stories
  • youth quality of life report cover
    Youth Quality of Life

    Our 2026 Youth Quality of Life Report gives us a closer look at what it means to grow up in Calgary today, and what we can do to make our community better for youth.

    Read story: Youth Quality of Life
  • Young People Making Their Mark: YODA 2026

    From leadership and advocacy to creativity, service, and everyday acts of kindness, the 2026 Youth of Distinction Awards celebrate 24 young people who are making a difference in Calgary and showing us what youth leadership looks like today.

    Read story: Young People Making Their Mark: YODA 2026

Our supporters

Support youth in Calgary

Empower the next generation to lead, volunteer, and grow. Join us in providing Calgary youth with the tools to build their skills and shape a more vibrant community today. 

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