Youth

The 2013 General Social Survey - Giving, Volunteering and Participating found that, for more than a decade, Canadian youth have volunteered more than any other age group. In fact, 53% of Canadians aged 15–24 are involved in volunteering. This puts youth well above the national average of 44%.

If we engage youth effectively, we can keep Canada’s voluntary sector strong. As many of Canada’s seniors retire from their volunteer careers, youth will have a vital role to play in building healthy and resilient communities.

It’s critical that organizations give youth positive volunteer experiences. Doing so can teach them the value of civic participation and lead to lifelong involvement.

Resources

• Building Blocks for Youth Volunteer Engagement — How can adults support young Canadians in their search for volunteer opportunities? This tool shows you how. The tool also allows youth to find their skills and interests and apply them to volunteering.
• Building the Bridge to Youth Volunteers — This fact sheet highlights common characteristics of today’s youth volunteers.
• Engaging Youth Effectively: A Case Study for Volunteer Centres — This document presents the findings of a youth pilot project on volunteering. The case study gives suggestions for youth involvement programs across Canada.
• Making Room for Young People — This questionnaire gives tips for including youth in community building.
• 10 Ways to Make Your Organization Youth Friendly — This tip sheet gives strategies for organizations looking to open their doors to youth volunteers.
• Volunteer Connections: New Strategies for Involving Youth — This manual offers tips for organizations so they can create volunteer roles that appeal to young people.