Overview

Our Mission

Vision Youth's mission is to cultivate youth leadership and essential life skills beyond the classroom through outdoor adventure, personal growth, and community projects. Our vision is to raise confident, creative, and compassionate leaders — young people who are equipped not just to succeed, but to serve others and make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Compassion starts with oneself

We believe compassionate leaders start by being compassionate with themselves. Our programs create a safe environment to step outside the comfort zone — to try, to struggle, and to grow — with the support of experienced mentors and a strong peer community.

Mentorship-driven

Led by volunteers who are professionals, community leaders, and past participants.

Experiential learning

Skills gained through doing — not sitting. Every lesson is hands-on and real-world.

Peer community

Peer community Youth build lasting friendships through shared challenges and team experiences.

Progressive growth

Journey that deepens skills and responsibility each year.

What youth gain

Essential life skills for school, career, and community

Since 2001, program graduates consistently report meaningful improvements across these areas:

Critical Thinking

Adaptability

Self-Confidence

Flexibility

Problem Solving

Collaboration

Time Management

Outdoor & Navigation Skills

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

2026 Bronze program

Three programs, one transformative year

Outdoor Leadership

Build confidence and leadership through outdoor challenges and team expeditions.

Schedule: May 23 – August 16, 2026
Fee: $1,999 → *$999 + HST

*Special 2026 rate is made possible by donor support.

Interpersonal Skills Development

Strengthen communication, teamwork, and confidence through interactive workshops.

Schedule: September 12 – December 5, 2026
Fee:$999 + HST

Dragon Boat Team

Build teamwork, discipline, and resilience through dragon boat training.

Schedule: May 3 – June 14, 2026
Fee:$138 + HST

About the Program

  • Vision Youth Leadership Program is a registered non-profit charity founded in 2001. It is 100% volunteer-operated, with the exception of government-funded summer students through the Canada Summer Jobs program. Every volunteer — regardless of their role — holds a valid Vulnerable Sector Check. Your child is always in a safe, screened environment.

  • Vision Youth is designed as a three-year progressive journey. Participants typically begin with the Bronze Program, then advance to Silver and Gold in the following years—each stage building deeper leadership, resilience, and responsibility.

    For 2026, we are focusing exclusively on the Bronze Program.

    This allows us to welcome new participants into the Vision Youth experience with a strong foundation—ensuring every student receives the full attention, mentorship, and high-quality programming that defines our community.

    We’re excited to grow this new cohort and continue supporting their leadership journey in the years ahead—and we hope your youth will be part of it.

  • The 2026 Bronze Program is designed for youth aged 14–17 years old in the Greater Toronto Area. Youth must be at least 14 years old by May 25, 2026 to be eligible for the 2026 intake.

  • Click the "Apply Now" button in the top right corner. After your application is received, you'll be invited to a Meet and Greet session via email, sent on a rolling basis. You can also submit your deposit cheque at the Meet and Greet.

  • We are accepting applications on a first come, first serve basis up until the following dates:

    Outdoor Leadership Program - April 30th, 2026

    Interpersonal Skills Development / Vision Youth Dragon Boat Team - Date to be announced — stay tuned!

  • The Outdoor Leadership Program is $1,999, reduced to a special 2026 rate of $999 thanks to donor support, the Interpersonal Skills Development Program is $999, and the Dragon Boat Team is $138.

  • Yes. Vision Youth offers need-based scholarship support for families who require financial assistance. Partial scholarships, full scholarships, and payment plans are available. All inquiries are handled confidentially. Visit our Scholarship page for full details and how to apply.

  • Vision Youth pushed me out of my shell and challenged me in every way. Through the sweat, tears, and laughter, I discovered my strength and built the confidence to keep growing.”

    — Shirley, 2005 Silver Graduate

  • Vision Youth gave me confidence, lifelong friendships, and the strength to push through challenges—teaching me that with the right mindset, I can achieve anything

    — Judith, 2006 Gold Graduate

  • Vision Youth was life-changing—it pushed me beyond my comfort zone, helped me grow, and introduced me to lifelong friends.

    — Connor, 2012 Gold Graduate