As part of $4 million in funding received by YMCA Canada through the Government of Canada’s Support for Students Learning program (SSLP), the YMCA of Southern Interior BC is pleased to announce that the YMCA Youth Transitions Program (YTP) will be available to support students in Kelowna and surrounding areas.
This funding will make it possible for the YMCA to empower students to reach their fullest potential, by building their capacity to engage and succeed in their educational studies and transition to higher levels of education. Through flexible and inclusive workshops and individualized supports, YTP’s youth-centered, strength-based approach addresses critical risk-factors to student success. YTP also aims to strengthen and enhance each student’s social network and foster a sense of belonging through comprehensive mentorship, counselling and mental wellbeing supports and activities.
The YMCA YTP was started at the YMCA of Northern Alberta to respond to needs they were seeing in their community. Recognizing this need exists in other communities, the financial support from Employment and Social Development Canada will allow the YMCA to expand access to the program to 22 sites across Canada.
“We are grateful to receive this funding to support the youth in our community,” says Allyson Graf, President & CEO, YMCA of Southern Interior BC. “The chance to learn life skills from positive mentors, connect with peers and discover what they're capable of will be life-changing for so many of these youth. The YMCA Youth Transitions Program shows what’s possible when young people are empowered to succeed.”
“At the YMCA, we believe every young person is worthy of the opportunity to reach their full potential.” says Peter Dinsdale, President and CEO, YMCA Canada. “This program recognizes the systemic factors that make it harder for some students to succeed. With this funding, we can provide even more young people with the knowledge, tools and support to help them achieve their goals, and put them on a path to the future they deserve.”
“Young Canadians deserve to reach their full potential. Access to mentorship, counselling, and wellbeing supports are essential to helping youth attain higher levels of education. YMCA’s Youth Transitions Program will provide students with critical assistance to ensure success in their chosen field. Through the Support for Students Learning Program, our Government is committed to supporting organizations that empower youth to pursue fulfilling careers.” remarks Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough.
For information on the Youth Transition Program, please email connect@ymcasibc.ca. You can also learn more about the YMCA of Southern Interior BC’s charitable impact at ymcasibc.ca/YGive.