Community youth workers work with partner organizations to best support youth in the community. We have 257 partners and counting.
Here are some of the ongoing initiatives that we offer in partnership.
BC Youth Week
BC Youth Week is a provincial celebration of youth held annually during the first week of May. It is a week of fun-filled interaction and a celebration intended to build a strong connection between youth and their communities. This event is intended to highlight the interests, accomplishments, and diversity of youth across the province.
Camp Sasamat Trip
Community youth workers initiated an annual citywide camping trip in which they share resources and funding to minimize financial barriers for vulnerable young people. With the financial support of the Len Cederholm Memorial Trust Fund and Community Associations, 10 Park Board sites with 100 local youth take part in activities such as team building, swimming, kayaking, archery, hiking, and many other activities.
CHILL Snowboarding
Chill Vancouver operates year-round with snowboard, skateboard, and stand up paddleboard programs for youth from 10 to 18 years old who are dealing with various life challenges. We work with various schools, youth agencies, social programs, and boardsports partners to provide these programs with all associated costs covered and barriers to participation removed.
Diversity Camp
The camp is planned in partnership with five Park Board community centres and their youth workers. With inspiration from the Equitas Speaking Rights program, this 2-night camping trip is geared toward fun outdoor recreation experiences and educating young people, between the ages of 13-18, on human rights issues. During one activity, youth were asked to share their experiences and feelings on racism and discrimination.
Graduation Strategy
This partnership between Strathcona, RayCam, Pacific Community Resources Society, and Pathways to Education offers free supports such as tutoring, mentoring, financial supports, and one-on-one support.
Moresports
Moresports creates and facilitates recreational programs for children aged 5-13 that promote sport and leadership development. Supported by a city-wide network of community partners, they ensure positive engagement and experiences among youth. Community youth workers work with and support hub developers in planning and offering a variety sports and physical activity programs in multiple neighborhoods across the city, and often help with leadership development for youth coaches and volunteers.
NASKARZ
NASKARZ (Never Again Steal Cars) is an innovative program that addresses youth and gang crime through mentorship and positive relationships. Developed in partnership between RayCam Cooperative Centre, Vancouver Community College, and the Vancouver Police Department, this award-winning program offers young people from Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside automotive, social, and educational opportunities.
Cars are just the hook into the program. NASKARZ is important for its participants’ futures because these kids are not hungry for crime; they’re starved for opportunity. The Insurance Corporation of BC credits NASKARZ as one of the initiatives that led to a 71% multi-year reduction in car-theft in Vancouver.
Neighbourhood Cleanup Party
Youth groups partner with the City of Vancouver to organize Neighbourhood Cleanup Parties to:
- Create a sense of community and purpose for friends, family, and colleagues in their neighbourhood
- Reduce pollution in stormwater runoffs that impacts our waterway
- Help neighbourhoods feel vibrant and safe
Get details on Neighbourhood Cleanup Parties
Night Hoops
The Park Board partners with Night Hoops to provide a positive late night activity for young people. This supportive environment promotes community and personal development through teamwork, fair play, life skills, and fun. Night Hoops operates on the principle of inclusion. There are no skill level requirements, no cuts, and Night Hoops is free! Youth receive instruction from skilled basketball coaches who also provide life skills workshops.
Positive Ticket
The Positive Ticket program is developing positive relationships between the Vancouver Police Department, the Vancouver Park Board, and youth aged 10-18 years. Youth who are witnessed displaying positive behaviours could receive a Positive Ticket, redeemable for four complimentary drop-in visits to any Vancouver Park Board pool, fitness centre, or ice rink.
Skate Host
The Skate Host program is a partnership with the Vancouver Skateboard Coalition (VSBC), Roundhouse Community Centre Association (RCCA) and Park Board. It has been running successfully for over 12 years during the summer at the Downtown Skate Park. Skate Hosts are Park Board staff, hired to ensure a safe environment, teach skate skills and etiquette and maintain positive relationships with community members. Safety, creativity and originality are encouraged over pure skill.
Youth in Action
Youth in Action is a Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) funded program for teens with mild to moderate behavioural and developmental needs. Youth participate in fun, challenging activities in a safe recreational environment. Youth must first be registered with a Children and Youth with Special Needs worker through MCFD.
