ACCESS offers customized employment and training services designed specifically to provide members of the Lower Mainland urban Aboriginal community with the education and skills to compete equally and effectively in today’s job market. ACCESS delivers an assortment of training, counseling, support and financial services designed to help members of the urban Aboriginal community overcome employment barriers that may stand in the way of success and self-sufficiency.

The Accessible Education Association is a youth-run, non-profit organization that promotes open education. Our goal is to provide educational supplies such as stationery, textbooks and novels to children and youth in deprived places. Founded by a group of high school students in early 2014, we operate in both British Columbia and Ontario and both branches have put in many hours to achieve our goals.

Atira Women’s Resource Society is a not-for-profit organization committed to the work of ending violence against women.

A feminist voice against violence and oppression, BWSS is a strong, dynamic organization that provides support and advocacy for women who have experienced abuse, as well as community education and training about violence against women. Part of a global feminist anti-violence movement, our long-term goal is the elimination of all violence against women and girls.

The BYRC is a one-stop youth centre that provides a wide range of social, health, education, employment, and life skills services to youth. It is a multi- service and multi-agency hub with a range of services for youth all under one roof.

For Trans and Gender Diverse People

Providing low-barrier wellness services to transgender and gender non-conforming people in a way that is respectful and celebratory of clients’ identity and self-expression.

Their centre is volunteer run, and all of our practitioners are volunteering their time, so that we can offer free services to people who need them, regardless of factors like citizenship, health insurance, or residential address.

Our mission is to educate, activate, and empower young people to engage in social, environmental and economic justice movements and to create a more equitable, democratic and sustainable future. Our main activities include offering youth-led workshops in schools and community spaces, and building youth leadership.

Youth leadership: We offer training, support and mentorship for groups of youth interested in bringing positive change to their communities: Social Justice Action Planning; Facilitation and Leadership; Visioning; Planning and Goal Setting; Power Mapping.

We also run youth action teams of peer educators and organizers as part of our programs. They facilitate our workshops, write blog posts, organize events and other actions.

Children of the Street is dedicated to preventing the sexual exploitation and human trafficking of children and youth in British Columbia through education strategies, public awareness initiatives, and family support.

We educate and raise awareness by providing young people with the knowledge and tools to keep themselves and their peers safe. We educate the community to recognize, react, and respond to sexual exploitation, and we strive to change attitudes of those who create the demand for sexual exploitation and trafficking.

We advocate for change by working with all levels of government and community partners for changes in legislation and policies that will help protect young people and prevent further sexual exploitation.

We support youth and families by offering early intervention services to victims, families and service providers who are affected by sexual exploitation and trafficking.

Pathways Aboriginal Centre provides Aboriginal children, youth and families with a place to gather. We offer a variety of cultural activities, recreation, community events, social opportunities, resources, information, community education and one-to-one supports. The centre focuses on a holistic view of the person and our community in all that we do. Through our work we involve our community to help enable children and youth to build on their identity and their cultural self-awareness. We encourage them to be involved in the lives of others and to accept what our community can offer.

The programs: National Aboriginal Day; OSKAYAK Youth Program; Pathway Outreach Education Program; Ravens Homework Club; Aboriginal Child, Youth and Family Program – Roots to Grow.

We help young people aged 16 to 24 who have fled physical, emotional and sexual abuse; those who have been forced from their homes; and those who have aged out of foster care. We’re here to fight against the crisis of homelessness; to give these youth a fresh start and a source of unconditional love and absolute respect. Covenant House immediately meets the basic needs of youth experiencing homelessness through a nourishing meal, a shower, clean clothes, medical attention, and a safe place to sleep. Covenant House provides a safe haven from the hardships of homelessness. We recognize the fundamental worth of every human being, and create a safe setting where all youth – regardless of life experience or identity – are served without judgement. At Covenant House Vancouver, we’re more than just a shelter or transitional housing. With us, young people always have a place to call home and a family that genuinely cares for them. Our approaches: Integrated Case Management, Housing Support, and Mental Health Counselling.

Directions Youth Services (a division of Family Services of Greater Vancouver) offers low-barrier programs and services to support youth under the age of 25 who are in crisis or experiencing homelessness as a result of abuse, neglect, substance use, or mental health challenges. We welcome and serve all youth. Program includes: digital media & music program, culinary program, visual art program; 24/7 Drop-In Youth Services Centre; Haven and Safehouse; Youth Detox.

The Transitions Program is a part-time, 16-week program for students with special needs and/or learning difficulties in Grade 12 or Grade 12+. The program is designed to assist students in making successful exits from secondary school into training or workplace settings.

Through the course of the program, students are introduced to post-secondary education opportunities, examine future training possibilities, and address the steps/skills required to obtain more education and/or entry into the work force. Classroom work includes exploration of personal strengths and interests, development of employment goals, development of work habits and skills (e.g., social and communication skills, problem-solving skills, time management, punctuality/attendance) and job search techniques.

Drive Youth Employment Services is an offsite program of Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House. We offer specialized youth employment services, creative youth programming, and a drop-in resource room. All of our services are available to youth aged 16-30. We are an outreach location for the Vancouver Northeast Employment Services Centre. Make it Program included which is a free art studio drop-in program.

Our Preteen and Youth Services are designed to involve a young person throughout their development from their preteen to adolescence. Preteens can start participating in weekly after school programs at 10 years old, or be part of our Grade 7s transition preparation. Throughout high school, they can access a range of skills development programs and leadership opportunities to eventually become a youth leader in the community. Even in post-secondary, youth can continue their participation in various leadership capacities.

Programs: Preteen Program; Youth Skills; Scholarship & Bursary; Youth Settlement Program; Building A Safer Environment; Youth Advisory Committee; Frames Film Program; Newcomer Youth Luv the Grub.

The BC Children’s Kelty Mental Health Resource Centre provides mental health and substance use information, resources, help with mental health system navigation and peer support to children, youth and their families from across BC. We also provide these services to people of all ages with eating disorders or disordered eating concerns.

We offer: Information and resources; Peer support; Help navigating the mental health system; Options for support, treatment and networks in BC; Free educational events for parents, as well as school and health professionals.

Kitsilano Neighbourhood House (‘Kits House’), member of the Association of Neighbourhood Houses BC, is a registered non-profit, charity organization dedicated to meeting the needs of those most vulnerable as well as providing an opportunity for everybody in our community to get together and be engaged. We offer many different programs like volunteer-led English Conversation Circles, weekly hot lunches for seniors, childcare and much more. Offers youth program (different programs every season), housing, child care etc.

Youth program: Our Youth Programs provide a positive environment for young people to experience a variety of fun and supportive programs and activities such as homework and fitness clubs, art classes and special events, We also support newcomer youth with special group activities and field trips. Different programs every month, check the website to see the calendar of events every month.

Newcomers Settlement Services & Support: We offer in-depth settlement services to immigrants and refugees who need extra support such as emotional and social support, accompaniment and home visiting, needs assessment and developing a personal plan. Come learn about Canadian society, community resources, government programs, how to find employment, the school system, parenting in Canada, and more! Workshops include preparing for Canadian citizenship and tax information.

Employment Support Services: If you are unemployed or under-employed (less than 20 hours per week) and you live in the northeast Vancouver area, you are eligible to participate in our program.

*Appointment only

La Boussole is a non-profit organization acting as a community and social center located in Vancouver that caters to Francophones in need. Through the provision of Francophone social and community programs and, La Boussole strives to meet the needs of its members and to facilitate social integration.

Services offered: Orientation for new arrivals in British Columbia; Housing services: Emergency shelters, SRO, BC Housing registry, retirement homes; Help to access legal, social and medical services; Free legal clinic offered by the AJEFCB; Prévention et soutien aux problems related to addiction; English/French translation; Referrals for services offered in French and English; Social intervention; Psychological support; Employment services.

LOVE BC continues to grow in demand because of its youth-driven nature that allows the organization to identify specific issues, topics and skills that youth want to focus on. LOVE BC evolves as our youth environment and consciousness does.

Workshop Themes/Topics Can Include: Beyond Bullying; Healthy Communication; Self-care and Setting Boundaries; Media Literacy; Anti-oppression and Inclusion; Healthy Relationships; Anti-violence; Youth Taking Action; Youth Engagement.

Programs: Media Arts Program; Leadership Program; National Leadership Camp ; Art Drop-in; Violence Prevention Committees are 8-week programs; Y-PINK (Young People Investing in Kindness).

The Looking Glass Foundation strives to support individuals struggling with eating disorders and disordered eating. We offer innovative and accessible programs and services that decrease isolation, instill hope, and sustain recovery for individuals on their road to recovery. So many individuals and organizations know of children, youth, and adults who are at risk of developing an eating disorder, or who are already suffering. They want to help, but simply don’t know how they can play a role: what to watch for, how to initiate a conversation, or how to intervene in an appropriate and constructive way. Offers programs like hand in hand support, peer support, prevention etc. and resources.

McCreary Centre Society is a non-government not-for-profit committed to improving the health of BC youth through research, evaluation and community-based projects. Our vision is that all youth are supported to be healthy and connected. Our mission is to foster all aspects of youth health and positive development based on the strength of our research, evaluation, and engagement with youth and communities in the most culturally competent way possible.

We provide an exceptional learning environment that is dynamic and engaging because we understand that the youth we serve expect to be fully engaged in learning opportunities which speak to their individual interests and passions and provide real opportunities for community inclusion, friendships and personal growth.

Services: Youth Groups; Transition to Adult Services- Youth must be referred by MCFD); South Vancouver Learning Centre; Foster Family Services; Emergency & Specialized Homes; Family Counselling Services.

At Native Education College, we help Indigenous learners realize their potential in a supportive and cultural environment. Our certificate and diploma programs lead toward high-demand careers including health care, counselling, tourism, or administration. Students achieve success through learning practical skills with a hands-on approach. Programs: adult upgrading, business, fine arts, health sciences, humanities & social sciences, and continuing education. Student services include Student Resources, Student Activities, library etc.

Odyssey and Nexus are programs for youth and their families affected by substance use. We provide a wide range of services: individual, family and/or group counselling, drop-in, social/recreational activities, referrals, drug/alcohol information and education, crisis intervention.

Our staff consists of youth and family counsellors with a special focus on alcohol and drug issues. We offer a supportive atmosphere, where youth feel comfortable to explore alcohol and drug-related issues and consider options for obtaining a healthier lifestyle.

We also provide assessment and referral services to other programs, such as detox and residential treatment.

Pacific Community Resources Society (PCRS) has a 35 year history of providing a breadth of quality, accredited social services across British Columbia, including: education, employment, housing, substance use, youth and family support services. Services includes: Aboriginal Youth Empowerment Program, counselling youth, work training, substance abuse counselling, etc.

We provide training, information and resources for strengthening peer support groups and peer-led initiatives throughout British Columbia. We work with many diverse groups and communities including First Nations, rural, urban, multicultural, youth and online. PeerNetBC is a non-profit, registered charitable organization. PeerNetBC has a wealth of resources to share with individual people, peer support groups and peer-led initiatives. One of the main ways we help people to connect is through our workshops. We provide open registration workshops that are available directly to the public and customized workshops created to meet the needs of specific groups and agencies across the province.

PLEA’s vision is a world where everyone has the opportunity for a good life, and where everyone counts. To fulfil this vision PLEA delivers unique services, tailored to individual strengths and needs, to children, youth, adults and families facing significant challenges so that they may live fulfilling lives within their communities.

Youth programs: Addictions; Counselling; Independent living; Mentoring; Residential Care; Peer Support; School & Work Opportunities; Youth Justice; Youth Outreach.

The RISE Youth Program assists youth newcomers, who often experience complex and multiple challenges in settling into their new community. RISE helps newcomer youth use their strengths and resources to increase their capacity to cope with issues and barriers, and to increase their skills and knowledge to independently settle and integrate.

Through safe and specialized case management in first language, RISE provides: Social and emotional support; Settlement information and counselling; Life skills, literacy and essential skills development; Practical assistance and supported access to services; Connection to community.

Languages Offered: Arabic, Burmese, French and Swahili

S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Youth Services promotes the personal growth and career development of young people through a wide variety of programs ranging from the volunteer buddy program, youth volunteer group, youth counselling, to leadership training, employment and entrepreneurial development.

Services: Youth Counselling; Youth Outreach Program; Youth Leadership Program; Youth Volunteer Group Program; Youth Employment Program; Youth Employment Connect (YEC); Discover Your Potential Program (DYPP).

Indigenous Student Centre: The Indigenous Student Centre (ISC) is dedicated to providing Indigenous students with programs and services that are unique, cultural, and holistic. Our vision is for Indigenous students to succeed and thrive, as our Ancestors envisioned, with a balance of culture, tradition, and academic success.

Office for Aboriginal People: Aboriginal programs, services, career programs, etc First Nations Student Association: The First Nations Student Association (FNSA) is a student organization whose mandate is two-fold: to personally, academically, and culturally support First Nations students (Inuit, Métis, Status and Non-Status) and to educate the campus community on First Nations issues. This includes advocating for services and resources for students and the promotion and sponsorship of activities on campus that demonstrate the cultural diversity of First Nations people. It also includes hosting panel discussions, workshops and conferences as well as responding to any negative media portrayals of First Nations peoples.

The Society for Children and Youth of BC (SCY) is a unique provincial organization dedicated to improving the well-being of children and youth in British Columbia. Since 1974, the Society has focused on providing a strong voice representing children and youth. We provide support to adult duty bearers to improve the well-being of children and youth in British Columbia.

Services: Workshops; Child and Youth Friendly Communities Consulting; Child and Youth Engagement; Keynote Presentations.

Our house is open to everyone and is a place where you can meet a friend, have some coffee, connect to programs or services, become a volunteer, or find resources. We will always greet you with a smile.

Youth programs: BioCYCLE , Friday Nights, Girls Group (Killarney) , Global Citizens (Captain James Cook) , Global Citizens (Waverley) , Green Team (David Thompson) , Guys Group (Killarney) , Homework Club/Dream Green , Learning Club (John Oliver) , Karma Connections Pre-employment Program , LEOS, Neighbourhood Youth Initiative , Newcomer Cooking Group , Newcomer Leadership (David Thompson) , Opening Worlds to Literacy, SHIFT, STEP to Work, United Way School’s Out (Fleming) , United Way School’s Out (Summer) , United Way School’s Out (Waverley) , Welcome Club (John Oliver) , Welcome Club (Killarney) , Youth Food Group.

Girls enter at grade 11, boys as their voices change continues into post-secondary level. A mixed-voice choir (SATB) with approximately 40 secondary and post-secondary aged singers, the Youth Choir enjoys a variety of repertoire, from classical to contemporary to jazz. Boys can join the Youth Choir as soon as their voices change, whereas girls join the choir in grade 11 and up. They appear in the annual Christmas Concert (Orpheum Theatre), Spring Concert (local church) and Summer Concert (Chan Centre, UBC). Along with Sarabande, the Youth Choir is also specially invited to sing at the City of Vancouver’s official Remembrance Day Ceremonies each year.

Urban Native Youth Association (UNYA) was formed in 1988 to address concerns facing Indigenous youth, at a time when growing numbers of young people began leaving reserves for the city. Thirty years later, young people continue to arrive in Vancouver with few job skills, minimal training or education, and little to no knowledge of where to go for help. Our Mission: Urban Native Youth Association is the centre of Indigenous youth excellence, supporting youth on their journeys by amplifying and celebrating their voices. Our Vision: Empowered Indigenous youth leading and inspiring all Nations.

Programs: Education and Training: Cedar walk program, Native Youth Learning Centre, Aries program, school support program; Health and Wellness: Native youth health and wellness centre, Meditation Program, Aboriginal outreach program, Young Bears Lodge, Clinical counselor; Housing and Transition: Ravens Lodge, Aboriginal Youth Safe House, Aboriginal Transition Team, Kinnections Mentoring Program; Community and Collectives: 2-Spirit collective, Mentorship, Leadership, Aboriginal Youth First Sports & REC, Overly Creative Mind (OCM), Aboriginal Youth Worker

*Check calendar on the website for more details about the program dates

***This a paid program***
Moresports creates and facilitates recreational programs that promote sport and leadership development. Our Youth Leadership program train youth from 12 – 18 years of age (Grade 8 – 12) through a process of leadership identification, engagement and development that supports youth as leaders within their community. Through our School, Parks and Community partnerships we ensure positive engagement and offer a variety of training experiences with recognized credentials. We also provide a Junior Youth Leadership program for ages 10-12 years of age (Grade 6-7), engaging kids in leadership roles such as leading lunch hour game and being peer playground monitors for the younger children at their school. Our youth leaders come from diverse backgrounds and sport experience, but they all share a passion for working with and helping kids. Mentorship is a win-win and through Moresports, our leaders not only become key role models in their community, they inspire new ones. Volunteer hours and activities are tracked and recorded so each participant is provided with the necessary documentation and references required for future opportunities.

Support for queer, trans, and Two-Spirit people of all ages.

Our immediate crisis support, counselling and justice assistance programs are open to cis and trans women, Two-Spirit, trans and/or non-binary people who are survivors of sexual assault and sexualized violence. 

YouthCO continues to be peer-led agency working to reduce the impact of stigma related to HIV and Hep C. We are an organization of young leaders who work to affect meaningful change through peer support, education and community engagement. We strive to foster inclusive communities where youth empower youth. YouthCO’s mission is to reduce the impact of HIV and Hep C stigma on youth in British Columbia. Youth living with HIV help shape all our programs, including Mpowerment and Yúusnewas. Poz Programs is a dedicated space for youth living with HIV and/or Hep C, and is a space where everyone shares this experience. Our programs focus on peer education, leadership, and peer support for youth throughout British Columbia.

Programs: MpowermentYVR; Workshops and Training; Sexual Health; Harm Reduction; Youth Living with HIV; Monthly Meetups; Leadership programs; Camp Moomba; Youth Clinics; Financial Support

Today, we are one of Metro Vancouver’s largest and most diversified non-profit organizations. Our holistic, integrated programs and services help lift women and families out of poverty, provide the best start for children and create new opportunities for education, employment and leadership. Our mission is to touch lives and build better futures for women and their families through advocacy and integrated services that foster economic independence, wellness and equal opportunities. Our after-school programs connect youth with positive role models and inspire them to play a leading role in their personal development and the development of their communities.

Resources: YWCA housing, Crabtree Corner, Parenting program, Parenting programs, Transitional expecting mother housing
Programs: Being me, Boys 4 real, Welcome to my life, That’s just me