Helping young people refine their skills, passions & interests in order to develop a path for the future based on their priorities and goals. Through building confidence, reducing barriers, and connecting them to the resources and support they need, we will ensure young people are future-ready.
Canadian youth are set up to fail in the new economy; if they fail, we all fail.”
– RBC Future Launch
All youth, regardless of where they live, need strong relationships and a sense of purpose in order to be healthy. And these assets are not only built at home and school – youth need caring adults investing in them throughout the community.
However youth in our community are not developing the tools and healthy relationships they need. A 2015 survey of grade 7-12 students in East Flamborough revealed that:
- Only 32% know how to plan ahead & make decisions
- Only 26% feel that adults in the community value them
- Only 38% are given useful roles in the community
- Only 53% of Grade 11 and 56% of Grade 12 students are optimistic about their future
The Globe & Mail reported up to 20% of students quit university and 25% quit college in the first year, while 20-50% drop out of the program they had initially chosen.
Universities report escalating mental health demands because youth are unprepared for post-secondary education, and youth attribute high levels of anxiety to the uncertainty of their future.
In a recent Ontario Student Trustee Association survey, less than 30% of students felt that their school provided them with up-to-date information about career pathways and job opportunities. Students also note their parents do not have enough information to help them make decisions.
We want to provide the most up-to-date and extensive information, resources, supports and opportunities to our young people. We need to prepare parents, friends and caring adults to be able to properly provide guidance and encouragement. From 12 years old, they can begin to discover the possibilities, engage in school, build skills and confidence, learn how to plan ahead and make decisions, and be optimistic about their future. Throughout their journey, we will meet them wherever they are at and make sure they continue to move forward on a path that will ensure their success.
A Self-Guided Approach
Through our Youth and Parent Portals, young people and their families can gain access to information, support and resources. They can explore volunteer opportunities, gap year programs, experiential learning and much more. We even have self-assessment tools that will give them a better idea of who they are, their strengths, and what careers may be suitable for them.
WYP Portal and Speakers Bureau – Launching in 2023!
If you have questions, or would like to get involved, please contact us.
