Who We Are
About Us
Mission: Empowering youth to find and build their communities.
Vision: All youth participate in shaping a vibrant community.
We empower youth to build community through a wide range of leadership and volunteer opportunities. Each year, we engage over 2,800 youth in Calgary, aged 12 – 18, through events and programs that build confidence, social connections, and essential life and leadership skills.
We know that when young people are encouraged to participate in their communities, they not only make an immediate impact but also build resilience for the future. Our programs prepare the next generation of community leaders for tomorrow’s challenges, enhancing employability and protecting mental health while supporting the work of over 140 community partners.
Our Board
The Youth Central Board of Directors is a strategic governance board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. It is focused on bringing the right balance of foresight, insight and oversight to help us accomplish our goals and advance our mission of empowering youth.
Chair: Julianne Rohel, CHRP, Senior Strategic Human Resources Partner, Cenovus Energy Inc.
Vice Chair: Sarah Pervez, Interim Executive Director, CRIEC
Treasurer: Henry Su, Head of Finance & Operations, SmarterDx
Secretary: Michael Doerksen, Lawyer, Field LLP
Directors:
Lana Bentley, Executive Director, Women’s Centre of Calgary
Ranita Charania, Executive and Leadership Coach, Ranita Impact Coaching
Dr. Elisea De Somma, Ph.D., R.Psych., Clinical Psychologist, Alberta Children’s Hospital and University of Calgary
Trevor Galon, CFA, Chief Investment Officer, Matco Financial Inc.
Bryce Kapsha, Support Operations Lead, Benevity
Jason Kraatz, CPA, ICD.D, Director, Hopewell Group
Katie Novak, Manager, Global Content & Communications, SMART Technologies
If you would like to reach a specific Board Member, or are interested in board service, please reach out to 403-266-5448 or board@youthcentral.com. You can connect with our Executive Director Leslie Biles by emailing leslie@youthcentral.com.
Our Financials
You can review copies of our most recent financials, along with compensation data, below.
Previous audited financials can be found on the CRA website.
Our Policies
Here’s how we handle your information and address concerns, please see details below.