Application
Who can apply?
The application is open to all Canadian residents (recommended ages 14 - 17).
Note, participant interested in enrolling in The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (DEA) through our Outdoor Leadership Program are required to satisfy the following age requirements:
Bronze - 14 to 17 years old on the first day of the program of the year of your application
Silver – 15 to 18 years old and completed DEA Bronze and the Vision Youth Bronze Outdoor Leadership Program
Gold - 16 to 19 years old who completed DEA Silver and the Vision Youth Silver Outdoor Leadership Program
When will be the deadline for submitting the application?
We are accepting applications on a first come, first serve basis up until the following dates:
Bronze Outdoor Leadership Program - April 30th, 2026
Silver Outdoor Leadership Program (Cancelled for the 2026-2027 Program Year)
Gold Outdoor Leadership Program (Cancelled for the 2026-2027 Program Year)
Social Innovation Academy (Cancelled for the 2026-2027 Program Year)
What does the application entail?
Upon applying, you will receive an email acknowledging your application within 48 hours. Please contact us at hello@visionyouth.ca if no confirmation is received within a week.
Applicants will be scheduled for a meet and greet with the program coordinators to better understand the participants’ interests, expectations and personalities.
Once all meet and greets are completed, we will officially send off a Welcome Email to you.
For Outdoor Leadership (Bronze Level Only), in your welcome letter, we will invite you (parents and participants) to our Outdoor 101 session to educate you on the proper equipment requirements (i.e. hiking boots, backpacks, etc.) before the start of the program.
Program
What will the program do for me?
The amount of rewards you get out from this program depends, to a large extend, on the amount of effort you put into it. In general, you will gain better self-confidence after trying out a number of new activities and you will establish new friendships. The experience that you gain is very useful reference for entering post secondary and future career.
Do the programs cost anything?
Outdoor Leadership - $1,999.00 + HST
Interpersonal Skills Development Program - $999.00 + HST
Youth Dragon Boat Team - $138.00 + HST
Find out how our scholarship program can support you here.
What does my program fee cover?
Our program fee covers excursions and select transportation, guest speaker workshops, indoor session materials, and outdoor team gear.
Items excluded from the program fees:
Food during excursions
Outdoor personal gear (backpacks, clothing, shoes, etc)
Transportation to and from some trips
When are the programs?
Outdoor Leadership:
Bronze Outdoor Leadership - Growing Through Exploration
Start Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Schedule: May 23 – August 16, 2026
Interpersonal Skills Development Program:
Start Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
Schedule: September 12 – December 5, 2026
Vision Youth Dragon Boat Team:
Start Date: Sunday, May 3, 2026
Schedule: May 3 – June 14, 2026
Check out our program calendar for the full schedule! Program Calendar
I have no camping experience, will I be able to handle the program?
Absolutely! From our past experience, participants in normal health conditions are able to handle all outdoor activities. You are required to carry a backpack that contains your personal items for hiking and camping trips. A loaded backpack weighs about 11-13 kg (25-30 lbs). However, please seek advice from your family doctor if you have concerns.
Will the program interfere with my school work?
We have considered the challenges of regular school schedule and workload. Most of the activities are on weekends.
Do I need to purchase insurance?
All participants should have valid OHIP health insurance.
I’m interested in getting involved as a volunteer. How can I help?
Vision Youth is 100% run by volunteers. We welcome other volunteers to join us as counselors, mentors, activity organizers, and speakers. You can also help by providing financial support. Please email us at hello@visionyouth.ca.