Programs
We believe youth are capable of more than what is asked of them and so we challenge them to rise above, inspire them to pursue, and coach them on becoming a leader capable of creating their own success.
Outdoor Leadership Program
The Outdoor Leadership Program challenges participants physically and mentally through structured outdoor expeditions and skills training. Youth will learn essential outdoor competencies such as map reading, route planning, meal preparation, shelter setup, stove operation, and knot tying.
Participants will work in teams to navigate trails, prepare meals, and camp overnight, developing teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills. As participants progress, the training and expeditions become increasingly advanced, fostering resilience, independence, and confidence. For many, this program serves as a foundational introduction to outdoor leadership and camping skills in a guided, supportive environment.
Start Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Schedule: May 23 – August 16, 2026
Fee: $1,999 + HST
Discounts and scholarships available. Check the FAQ for more info.
The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award
Participants who complete the Outdoor Leadership program are eligible to participate and obtain The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, an internationally recognized award program.
Interpersonal Skill Development Program
This program focuses on building strong communication, leadership, and emotional-intelligence skills. Through interactive workshops, personal-growth sessions, and community projects, participants learn to express themselves confidently, collaborate effectively, and lead with empathy and purpose.
The program equips youth with practical life skills while encouraging community engagement and meaningful social impact.
Start Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
Schedule: September 12 – December 5, 2026
Fee: $999 + HST
Location: Markham or Richmond Hill (TBA)
Discounts and scholarships available. Check the FAQ for more info.
Dragon Boat
The Vision Youth Dragon Boat Team provides a structured and energetic team-based experience. Participants will train at Lake Wilcox every Sunday from May 3 to June 7 through six coached practice sessions focused on paddling fundamentals, teamwork, and race preparation.
The team will compete at the 37th Toronto International Dragon Boat Race Festival on June 14–15, 2026, at Toronto Centre Island. The participation fee includes all practices and race registration.
Start Date: Sunday, May 3, 2026
Schedule: May 3 – June 14, 2026
Fee: $138 + HST
Discounts and scholarships available. Check the FAQ for more info.
Social Innovation Academy
This unique 5-month program, in partnership with the City of Toronto, University of Toronto, and Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, connects youth with cutting-edge thinking and practical experience of solving community issues.
Through 8 workshops led by industry experts, we cultivate participant’s interest and engagement in contributing solutions to community issues. At the end of the program, participants will have developed a social impact project, executed a pilot and pitched their idea at Demo Day to potentially gain resources and ongoing mentorship to scale their idea.
Please click the button below to learn more.
“The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow.”
What People Are Saying
“My time at Vision Youth provided me experiences that I would not have had in school. I was forced out of my shell and challenged to work in dynamic teams. Most importantly, I learned how strong I was and can be when I'm pushed to my physical, mental and emotional limit. There were sweat, tears and laughter throughout the summer but I signed myself up and I had a blast. Looking back now, I recognize those summers kick-started my self-confidence, and desire to continue to develop myself.”
— Shirley, 2005 Silver Graduate
“My high school career was definitely enhanced by the opportunities and experiences that I had in Vision Youth. Aside from the outdoor camping, VY gave me the confidence to reach out to others and make new friends. It also made me realized that aside from physical strength, mental strength is what keeps you going during the hikes and portages. The hikes and portages give you a great feeling of achievement when completed, and building this strength has given me the self-confidence to know that I can achieve anything when I set my mind to it.”
— Judith, 2006 Gold Graduate
“Vision Youth was a life-changing experience. Through this program, I was pushed out of my comfort zones and I grew into a more mature, well-rounded person. Along the way, I met many life-long friends whom I still talk to this day.”