Active Program - Began October 2025
Land Acknowledgment
The YCCBC Kelowna team works and lives on the unceded syilx (pronounced see-yeel-x)/Okanagan First Nations land, and we work hard to apply a decolonial lens to our climate action work in this space. We strive to continuously leave our minds open to learn about and apply traditional ways of learning, teaching, and relating to the world around us. From having our program in Kelowna, we look forward to deepening our relationships with the land, water, and people who have been here for thousands of years.
YOUTH CLIMATE CORPS BC - Kelowna
As the first YCCBC team in Kelowna, we have been working on partnering with local organizations and climate initiatives to strengthen relationships and have a greater impact combating the effects of climate change. Our primary partnership is with the City of Kelowna to support their Climate Resilient Kelowna Strategy and increase community engagement with the ClimateSmart program. The ClimateSmart program includes the Energy Home Navigator, FireSmart, WaterSmart, and NeighbourWoods initiatives.
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Another project our team is currently working on includes connecting local farms with food security organizations.This initiative will work towards reducing food waste through the gleaning, purchasing and distribution of fresh produce. The team has also volunteered with local farms, who already donate their produce to food security organizations, to aid in harvesting and preparation for the winter season.
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As the Kelowna team’s season is just getting underway, stay tuned for other exciting projects that are in the works!
Join the Movement
Youth have the power to ignite change and shape a brighter future. At YCCBC, we invite young people to join our movement, where they can be agents of positive change and drive resilience within our community.
Together, let's embrace the challenges of climate change and pave the way for a greener and more sustainable Courtenay.
Within Youth Climate Corps, crew members are between 17-30 years old; they earn wages, gain work experience, build networks, and develop themselves personally and professionally. Meanwhile, they complete projects that both benefit their own communities and support global efforts to act on the climate crisis.
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If you or your organization wants to learn more about how to team up with us and move forward on projects in your community, or if you are interested in funding one of our projects related to our different focus areas, we are here to support you.