Programs that empower youth

We put Youth in the driver’s seat

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.

For ages 12–18

Confidence

Youth 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.

All programs

Youth volunteer corps

Explore from hundreds of guided group volunteer projects and find an easy, fun way to give back to your community.

Become a volunteer
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  • Bounce Back

    Use hip-hop to build confidence, communication, and emotional skills that support real growth.

    Bounce Back

  • Calgary Youth Foundation

    Learn about philanthropy while planning, promoting, and funding youth-led community projects.

    Calgary Youth Foundation

  • Discovering Choices

    Work with other students to turn big ideas and small actions into real change at your school

    Discovering Choices

  • GRADitude Project 

    A boutique-style pop-up for Grade 12 grads. Access free formalwear, accessories, tailors, and personal care items.

    GRADitude Project 

  • Grants

    Explore funding opportunities designed to help youth launch projects, lead initiatives, and create meaningful change.

    Grants

  • Mayor’s Youth Council

    Amplify youth voices in Calgary by working with like-minded peers to kickstart youth-led initiatives and events.

    Mayor’s Youth Council

  • YODA Committee

    The Youth of Distinction Awards (YODA) is a city-wide, youth-led awards program. Build your skills planning a major event and celebrating your amazing peers.

    YODA Committee

  • Youth Are Awesome

    Write about what matters to you, and contribute to a platform dedicated to youth voices. Write, edit, and publish with other passionate youth bloggers.

    Youth Are Awesome

  • YVC School Clubs

    Access support and resources for your school’s student volunteer club.

    YVC School Clubs

We empower youth 
to build community

Our impact

40K+

youth contributing to their communities through Youth Central

3,460+

registered in one or more Youth Central program(s)

95%

of youth report an
increase in confidence

93%

of youth report an increase in communication and teamwork skills

140+

community organizations supported

152%

increase of community partners since 2019

  • "I never felt that my time was being wasted with Youth Central. I was always learning about something new and getting to hear about other people’s experiences.”

    Youth Central Alumni

  • “[Youth Central] has helped me so much in finding out who I am, and what I value as an individual.”

    Youth Central Participant

  • “Youth Central also helped me acquire my current job with the experiences gifted to me by it.”

    Youth Central Alumni

FAQ

No! Youth Central is a free program. Just be sure to sign your waiver and complete the application to get started.

Our programs are tailored to youth who are still enrolled in junior high or senior high school (12–18 years old).

Some Youth Volunteer Corps projects are age-restricted, but the program itself is open to any youth.

Check out the page of the program you’re interested in. Their page will have more details on how to apply. Have any questions? Send us an email at info@youthcentral.com.

Most of our programs accept applications at the start of the school term. Check out the page of the program you’re interested in to sign up for updates on the next application cycle.

The Youth Volunteer Corps accepts applications all year long! Learn how to apply here.

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