Be the change you wish to see in the world - join the YMCA Youth Peace Network!
The purpose of the YMCA Youth Peace Network (YPN) is to build peace locally and globally by training youth leaders in peace, conflict resolution and social justice, developing leadership skills and fostering regional and international networks. This is based on a belief in the empowerment of youth and children, and of their capacity to create change.
| YPN participants are: |
| · | Volunteers, staff or members at a YMCA outside of Canada. |
| · | Committed to creating a more peaceful and just world. |
| · | Motivated, responsible and adaptable. |
| · | Interested in developing their character and leadership skills. |
| · | Experienced in working with children, youth or community groups. |
| · | Between 20 and 30 years of age. |
| · | Able to understand and speak English (no translation is provided during the program). |
| This multinational program takes place over three months in the Lower Mainland and Coast of British Columbia, Canada. Taking part in training workshops and volunteering at YMCA summer camps, participants build skills in: |
| · | Cross-cultural communication. |
| · | Appreciation of diversity. |
| · | Conflict resolution and peace building. |
| · | Leadership. |
| · | Group work. |
| · | Facilitation and popular education. |
| · | Working with youth and children. |
All participants are expected to apply their learning within their own YMCA and home communities by developing a concrete action plan for use upon return to their respective countries.
Exchange is a significant part of the YPN program. By sharing traditions, arts and information about the development challenges of their own communities and societies, YPN participants help Canadian youth and families better understand the world and become more effective global citizens.
The cost of the YPN program is almost totally covered by a scholarship - there are 16 scholarships available to candidates from Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)-sponsored countries. Costs covered include: training workshops, international transportation, domestic transportation in Canada, simple accommodation, food, medical and dental insurance and pocket money. YPN participants and their Home YMCAs are expected to cover the cost of obtaining a passport and a Canadian visa. Youths who do not come from a CIDA-sponsored country are welcome to apply; however, they are not eligible for a scholarship.
The sponsor of this intensive training program is the YMCA of Greater Vancouver, with support from CIDA and the YMCA Endowment Fund.
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