Youth Central volunteers assist at a Two Wheel View workshop, where they help repair and prepare bicycles that support healthy development and resilience among young people in Calgary. The activity is part of Youth Central’s ongoing commitment to youth community engagement. (Tarek Chono Campos, CMRU.ca)
Youth Central Helps Calgary Youth Build Community, Confidence and Connections
Faced with rising youth mental health challenges and some of the highest unemployment rates in the country, one Calgary charity is offering a powerful antidote, connection. For years, Youth Central has empowered young people by helping them become active, confident community builders.
A Legacy of Empowering Youth
“Youth Central is an amazing Calgary-based charity that was formed about 30 years ago,” says Engagement Director Lisa Litz. Founded by Penny Hume after struggling to find youth-friendly volunteer opportunities for her children, the organization grew into a citywide leader in youth empowerment. “We work on offering free leadership and volunteer programs that empower youth to build their communities,” Litz says. These programs matter more than ever. Rising screen time, loneliness and what Litz calls “really disturbing data” around mental health are paired with an employment market where it is “really hard for youth to get a toehold in society.”
Connection, Confidence and Community
Youth Central combats isolation by bringing young people together in group volunteer teams. “It’s not just one kid in a sea of adults,” Litz says. “They connect with other like-minded youth, and they get to make really meaningful contributions to their community.” Leadership programs such as the Mayor’s Youth Council also give participants a direct voice in city issues while building communication skills, friendships and a sense of purpose.
Five Key Benefits Youth Gain Through Youth Central Programs
Youth Central’s programs give young people more than volunteer hours. According to the organization’s website and community reports, participants often gain:
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A stronger sense of belonging through group volunteering
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Leadership experience from programs like the Mayor’s Youth Council
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Improved communication and teamwork skills
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Practical work experience that supports future job applications
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Increased confidence from contributing to meaningful community projects
Source: Youth Central program descriptions and community impact reports
Building a Resume and a Future
The organization also supports youth employment by giving volunteers real experience they can use on job applications. After 20 hours, participants can receive a reference letter to help break the cycle of not being able to get a job without experience. “It helps them get a toehold, and that’s so necessary when the world is so competitive right now,” Litz says. As a “small but mighty” charity working with about 2,800 youth each year, Youth Central continues to strengthen community engagement across Calgary.
Read about Youth Central’s programs and initiatives to see how the organization supports youth across Calgary.
Reflection
Throughout my experience working with Youth Central, I gained valuable insight into how to find potential work in this industry. In previous semesters I had completed a similar project with another community partner, but that organization worked in a field that was already familiar to me. Because of that, the process of getting involved felt much easier. This time I did not have much experience with charities, so reaching out, coordinating with them and representing their work was a new challenge that I was able to overcome.
Working with Youth Central gave me the chance to create media content that I believe will genuinely support their efforts. The final story highlights what youth volunteers do and what they gain from participating, and presenting this visually makes it easier for potential volunteers to understand the impact. I hope that this project helps Youth Central attract more young people who want to build skills, confidence and community connections.
What I learned the most from this project is that even small actions can make a meaningful difference. I saw young volunteers come together to support their communities while also growing as individuals. Some of them overcame shyness, uncertainty or lack of experience through teamwork, mentorship and a willingness to try something new. This reminded me that positive change does not always come from grand gestures. It can come from simple moments of people helping each other and choosing to get involved.
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