Youth Programs
New friends, new skills, counselling — you can find it all and more at your YMCA. Our youth programs are specifically designed to help you achieve your goals, or help you get your life back on track. Overcome obstacles and let your potential shine bright at the Y!
Support you can count on and connections that get you ahead
Your YMCA has what you need, whatever your circumstances.
- Training and mentorship to help you become a community leader.
- Exchange programs to help you experience more of Canada.
- Build self-esteem and gain confidence at Teen Nights.
- Counselling, support and housing to help you overcome life challenges.
- Alternative education programs tailored to your needs.
Choose from exciting programs that help you get ahead
At the YMCA Academy, we know that all students have their own learning styles. That’s why we offer an alternative learning experience for high school students interested in an interactive, experience-based learning process.
Our YMCA Youth Leadership Programs help you develop your leadership potential and provide you with opportunities to learn, grow, and make contacts.
Join our Youth Leadership Development Program (YLD) to enhance your leadership skills through training, teamwork, meaningful community service, and volunteering.
If you’re a newcomer to Canada seeking a safe, supportive, and enjoyable way to connect with their new community, then the Newcomer Youth Leadership Development Program (NYLD) is ideal for you.
Hang out with friends, shoot some hoops, or get involved in interesting workshops and discussions where you can learn new skills and speak your mind. Teen Nights, at the YMCA provides a safe space for teens to socialize, get support and take part in fun activities.
The YMCA has been providing housing and shelter for youth for decades. Whether it is family problems, trouble with the law or being locked out of the house, we’ll help you stay warm and safe, and get you the help that you need.
If you, or someone you know, is looking for help with substance use and misuse problems, our counsellors are there to help show how to practise safely and make healthier choices.
The YMCA Youth Gambling Awareness Program is a free service offering educational prevention programs designed to raise youth awareness with regards to gambling, healthy/active living and making informed decisions.
Join one of our YMCA youth travel and exchanges programs to experience and learn more about the different communities that make up our great country, all while making connections with youth in other parts of Canada.
The Black Achievers Mentorship Program is dedicated to the advancement of Black youth in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and aims to provide them with opportunities to develop socially and academically with the support of Black mentors and role models.
PFIC is a FREE financial literacy series to set you up for success! The workshops cover topics including - Education planning, signing a cellphone contract, saving money, buying your apartment, paying your rent, and more. View the list of exciting workshops and register now
Join the conversation about the opioid crisis with the Youth Opioid Awareness Program. Learn about opioids, prevention, recovery and how you can help protect yourself and your community.
The Youth for Youth Gambling Education Program (Y4Y) is a provincial education and prevention initiative, funded by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) that is designed to empower young people to raise awareness on underage gambling, problem gambling, and the support resources available.
Endless opportunities to shine bright at the Y
Did you know that the Y is a charity that helps people from all walks of life, at all ages and life stages? Explore all our programs and services and find the best options to keep you and your family shining bright.