Youth 4 Youth
Youth 4 Youth is our Youth Advisory Committee within our Resilience Collective where young people do not just “have a seat,” they help shape the table. Meeting once a month over a shared meal, youth bring different lived experiences, diverse ideas, and the kind of honesty that makes systems better. Over the past couple of years, Youth 4 Youth members have helped influence agency work by giving youth-centred input on surveys and questions, sharing what works (and what doesn’t), and making sure youth perspectives are part of the conversation. They have also turned ideas into action, like launching “Little Libraries” in our lobbies and helping bring youth-friendly spaces to life (including the Youth Room design). When Youth 4 Youth meet with agency leaders, they show up with courage and humour while naming power imbalances, asking to be included as equals, and reminding everyone what it feels like to be the only youth voice in a room of adults. Youth 4 Youth is about belonging, leadership, and real impact: by youth, for youth, alongside a community that is building resilience together. |  |
Y4Y’s Little Libraries initiative
Through Y4Y’s Little Libraries initiative, youth came together to design, build, and install community book‑sharing spaces that promote literacy, connection, and belonging. Two Little Libraries were installed — one at the entrance of 65 Hanson and another in the lobby of 200 Ardelt — offering free access to books for all ages and creating welcoming spaces that encourage learning, sharing, and community connection.
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Naloxone training
Y4Y youth recently participated in a Naloxone training led by SOGIE Lead Victor Santiago, gaining vital knowledge and skills to respond to opioid overdoses and support community safety. Youth were highly engaged throughout the session and expressed deep gratitude for Victor’s approach, care, and expertise. The training strengthened confidence, awareness, and a shared commitment to harm reduction and saving lives.
The Resilience Project
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