YMCA Calgary > YMCA Community Action Network (YCAN)
YMCA Community Action Network (YCAN)
The YMCA Community Action Network (YCAN) supports youth, aged 15-30 years old, in Calgary as they develop and deliver projects that address needs in their community, in a way that is meaningful to them.
In partnership with 16 other YMCAs across Canada, youth from underrepresented communities are brought together to meet others from different backgrounds, discover their potential, and see their ability to create impact in the world around them; meeting them where they are, to increase their social and employment skills, confidence, and community engagement.
Through YCAN, youth have the opportunity to:
- Discover your potential to make a positive impact in the community through the planning, development and implementation of service projects based on community need and participant interest.
- Explore personal interests and learn about your community through experiential learning.
- Develop social and employment skills for future employment and volunteer opportunities.
- Remove barriers to your participation in community outreach and volunteer opportunities.
- Collaborate and build relationships with other organizations in Calgary.
- Receive a complimentary YMCA Membership.
- Earn high school credits and volunteer hours for your participation, wherever applicable.
Upon completion of 120 service hours though YCAN, youth will receive a reference letter which can be used for future work and education purposes.
Quotes from YCAN Alumni:
“I was able to speak up for myself and my community.”
– Cohort 3, YCAN Alumni
“I felt most proud of myself when I was able to look at the completed project and know that I was a part of it’s creation and success.”
– Cohort 4/5, YCAN Alumni
“YCAN is what ever you want it to be. It’s a way to make your ideas tangible…it’s making your ideas into something real while having a good time.”
– Cohort 7, YCAN Almuni