25 years of turning GTA teens into leaders.
Founded in 2001 by a group of passionate GTA volunteers, Vision Youth has become one of the region's most trusted youth leadership programs — entirely volunteer-run, entirely community-driven.
THE FOUNDING STORY
We started with a simple belief
In 2001, a group of GTA community volunteers came together around one shared belief: that teenagers are capable of far more than their school environment lets them demonstrate. They wanted to create a space where youth could be challenged, mentored, and trusted with real responsibility — outside the classroom, in the real world.
That first program was small. But the impact was immediate. Teens who struggled to speak up in class were leading teams on overnight hikes. Shy participants were planning and running their own events. The program worked — and word spread through the community.
Five values that guide everything we do
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Courage
Courage The strength to face challenges while staying true to our values
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Compassion
Compassion Empathy plus action rooted in kindness toward others.
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Growth
Growth Developing and learning through real life experiences.
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Community
Community Belonging through shared purpose and meaningful connection.
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Confidence
Description goes The inner belief that we have the strength and courage to lead.here
Our Journey
How Vision Youth Grew
— 2001 to today
2001
Vision Youth founded in the Greater Toronto Area
Established to develop youth leadership, confidence, and community engagement
Participants completed the Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award, Toastmasters Youth Leadership, St. John Ambulance First Aid Certification, Outdoor Leadership Camp, and community service.
2002 - 2003
Expanding Leadership Opportunities
Introduction of Silver and Gold leadership programs
Focus on personal growth, critical thinking, financial literacy, experiential learning
Launch of youth exchange with Vancouver’s Youth Leadership Millennium
Exposure to Indigenous history, culture, and leadership
2005
Learning Through Creativity
Launch of LEAP (Learning Experiences through Artistic Performances)
Use of drama and interactive activities
Development of empathy, teamwork, communication, and leadership
2007–2008
Preparing Youth for the Future
Introduction of Transition to University Talk for high school students
Launch of “Kick Start to a New Career Forum”
Opportunities to connect with professionals across various industries
2010
Celebrating 10 Years of Impact
10th anniversary marked with fundraising showcase at Markham Theatre
Celebration of youth leadership and community contributions
2013
ORBIS Pull Event
Participated in the ORBIS Pull for Sight fundraising event.
2014
First Soccer Tournament
First charity soccer tournament launched
Engagement of youth, families, and community partners
Fundraising for youth development initiatives
2018–2019
Dragon Boat Success
Formation of Vision Youth Dragon Boat Team
Focus on teamwork, leadership, and personal growth
2019: Won Not-for-Profit Cup at Toronto International Dragon Boat Race Festival
2020
Social Innovation Academy Launches
Partnership with community and academic organizations
Youth empowered to address real-world challenges through innovation
2021–2022
Growing Youth Impact
Expansion of Social Innovation Academy projects
Partnered with the University of Toronto for SIA.
32 youth presented social impact projects.
Focus areas: mental health, Indigenous entrepreneurship, youth employment
Establishment of Keith Yeung Memorial Scholarship to reduce financial barriers
2026
25 Years of Empowering Youth
Over 1,200 program graduates
Continued program evolution
Modularization of Outdoor Leadership and Interpersonal Skills Development programs
Ongoing focus on confidence, leadership, and community service
Where Our Graduates Are Today
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My time at Vision Youth helped me discover that working with youth is an important part of improving our communities — it has become a central part of my career.
— Ryan Lo
Urban planner · Co-founder, Urban Minds · Community engagement practitioner, Toronto
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I think that if you believe in yourself more than anyone else, there’s not much you can’t do. Knowing that motivates me to take on challenges that others might not.
— Vincent Chan
Founder & Chairperson, Project 5K · Youth volunteer and community engagement leader