About us
Founded in 1971, Canada World Youth (CWY) is a world leader in developing international educational programs for young people aged 15 to 35. A non-profit organisation, CWY is dedicated to enriching the lives of young people that have a desire to become informed and active global citizens. CWY programs are designed to help youth experience the world for themselves, learn about other cultures and diverse Canadian communities while developing leadership and communication skills.
In 2011-12, 1103 young volunteers took part in Canada World Youth’s programs, 794 were Canadians and 309 were from our partner countries. 26.6% of the Canadian volunteers were Aboriginal youth and 14.4% represented a visible minority group. The percentage of young volunteers who completed the Youth Leaders in Action program, a six-month program, was 89.2%. To find out more about Canada World Youth’s various programs, please click here.
Mission
Canada World Youth's mission is to increase the ability of people, and especially youth, to participate actively in the development of just, harmonious, and sustainable societies.
Vision
Canada World Youth envisions a world of active, engaged global citizens who share responsibility for the well-being of all people and the planet.
Values
Integrity in all our relationships, partnerships and business dealings, through honest, transparent and equitable interactions.
Empowerment in providing all our constituents with the space and the ability to be innovative and facilitate the implementation of new initiatives that will promote our mission and vision.
Respect in ensuring equity for all peoples of diverse backgrounds, realities and cultures, in learning to understand and respect one another, in understanding that all humanity is interdependent on the natural environment.
Accountability in ensuring responsible actions and behaviours, while being true to our values in all our relationships, policies and decisions.
Internationally recognized expertise
The Netherlands, Sweden, Great Britain, and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) have all designed programs based on the CWY model.
A unique and innovative model
Non-formal education: The CWY program advocates learning by doing, a model in which young volunteers learn by getting involved in communities in Canada and in another country.
A bilateral core program: CWY is one of the few organizations in the world that offers a two-part program, with one phase in Canada and the other in another country. This is one of the most original aspects of the CWY model because it provides a perspective on how people live in both countries and fosters true dialogue between partners in the South and in the North.
Supervision, health, and safety: All CWY projects are supervised by highly qualified professionals who provide volunteers with a safe, unique, and enriching experience.
Canada World Youth is a registered Canadian charitable organization. Charitable registration number: 11897 3999 RR0001.
