Programs in British Columbia

A comprehensive chart of programs in British Columbia that offer opportunities for youth to explore careers in emergency services and related fields. The chart includes program types, eligibility criteria, and contact information, including email addresses.

Program/Organization Program Type Age Range Eligibility Contact Information
Army, Navy, and Air Cadets Leadership, Teamwork, Outdoor Adventure, Life Skills 12-18 years Open to all youth Join Cadets
RCMP Youth Engagement Programs Law Enforcement, Leadership Typically 13-18 years Open to all youth; specific criteria may apply Contact local RCMP detachment for details RCMP Youth Programs
St. John Ambulance Youth Programs First Aid, Community Service, Leadership Typically 6-18 years Open to all youth Contact local St. John Ambulance branch St. John Ambulance Youth Programs
Canadian Red Cross Youth Programs Emergency Response, First Aid, Community Engagement All ages; specific roles for youth Open to all youth Contact local Red Cross branch Canadian Red Cross Youth
Search and Rescue Volunteer Association of Canada (SARVAC) Youth Programs Search & Rescue, Emergency Services Varies Open to all youth Contact local SARVAC affiliate SARVAC
Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary Programs Maritime Rescue, Marine Operations Varies Open to all youth; specific criteria may apply Contact local Coast Guard Auxiliary unit Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary
Junior Firefighter Programs (varies by location) Firefighting, Community Engagement Varies (often 14-18 years) Contact local fire department Contact local fire department
City Youth Police Programs (varies by location) Policing, Community Leadership Varies Contact local police department Contact local police department
RCMP Auxiliary Program Community Policing, Support Role 19+ years Open to adults; specific criteria apply Contact local RCMP detachment RCMP Auxiliary Program
Youth Emergency Shelter (YES) Services Emergency Shelter, Crisis Intervention 15-18 years Youth experiencing housing instability or unsafe environments Contact local Ministry of Children and Family Development office Youth Emergency Shelter Service
SAJE (Strengthening Abilities and Journeys of Empowerment) Transition Support, Life Skills 14-27 years Youth with care experience; specific criteria apply Email: MCF.SAJE@gov.bc.ca SAJE Program
Crisis Centre BC Youth Programs Mental Health Support, Crisis Intervention 12-19 years Open to all youth Email: info@crisiscentre.bc.ca Crisis Centre BC Youth Programs
Youth Urgent Response Team (YURT) Mental Health, Substance Use Support 12-19 years Youth experiencing acute mental health or substance use issues Contact local health authority YURT Program
Watari Counselling and Support Services Society Outreach, Support Services Varies Homeless and at-risk youth Email: info@watari.ca Watari Youth Programs
LEO Street Youth and Family Services Society Support Services, Family Services Varies Youth and families in need Phone: 604-524-1511 LEO Street Youth and Family Services

Key Highlights:

  • Leadership Development: Programs like Cadets and RCMP Youth Engagement provide youth with essential leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.
  • Hands-on Experience: Youth can gain direct experience in emergency services, such as firefighting, search and rescue, and law enforcement, through junior firefighter programs, search and rescue teams, and police youth programs.
  • Diversity & Inclusion: Programs like the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary offer inclusive opportunities for youth to explore maritime careers.
  • Community Engagement: Organizations like St. John Ambulance and the Canadian Red Cross provide avenues for youth to engage with their communities, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection.

These programs provide excellent pathways for young people in British Columbia to explore careers in emergency services, build life skills, and develop their leadership potential. For more information, visit the program websites or contact the relevant department directly.