ACAO Youth Program
EMPOWERING BLACK YOUTH THROUGH UNITY & SERVICE
Join the ACAO Youth Placement Program and Make a Difference in Your Community!
What Is The ACAO Youth Placement Program (Unity Through Service Program)?
The ACAO Youth Placement Program (Unity Through Service) empowers Black youth in the National Capital Region
(Ottawa-Gatineau) aged 12 to 30 by providing community service opportunities. Your information will be kept
confidential and used solely for program purposes.
Who Can Join?
- • Black youth in the Ottawa-Gatineau region
- • Aged 12–30
- • Passionate about volunteering
Unity Through Service: Empowering Ottawa’s Black Youth through Volunteerism is funded by Canada Service Corps,
a national movement that empowers youth aged between 12–30 to gain experience, build important skills while giving back
to their community. Learn more at
Canada.ca/CanadaServiceCorps
.
Why You Should Join The ACAO Youth Placement Program
The ACAO Youth Placement Program (Unity Through Service) is an incredible opportunity for young individuals looking to grow personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact in their community. Here’s why you should be part of it:
Community Building & Volunteer Service – Give back to your community while developing a strong sense of purpose and civic responsibility.
Capacity Building Workshops & Seminars – Gain valuable knowledge and practical skills through expert-led sessions designed to enhance your personal and professional development.
Leadership Training – Build the confidence and skills needed to become an effective leader in your field and community.
Public Speaking & Communication Skills – Improve your ability to communicate ideas effectively, a crucial skill for career success.
Problem-Solving & Social Innovation – Learn how to tackle real-world challenges and develop creative solutions that drive positive change.
Develop Social Capital & Reputation – Establish yourself as a proactive and engaged individual, opening doors to future opportunities.
Network with Fellow UTS Volunteers – Connect with like-minded individuals, build meaningful relationships, and expand your professional network.
Recognition & Acknowledgement – Your contributions and effort will be recognized and celebrated.
Community Safety Program
At the African Canadian Association of Ottawa (ACAO), we are committed to fostering a safer and more vibrant community through our innovative Community Safety Program. Designed with a focus on social programming, our initiative empowers youth by channeling their energies into positive community service and constructive activities. Our program provides young people with the opportunity to engage in meaningful projects, develop valuable skills, and build a sense of responsibility and pride in their community. By participating in ACAO’s Community Safety Program, youth are steered away from negative influences and guided towards becoming proactive members of society.
Join us in creating a safer, stronger, and more united community. Together, we can help our youth thrive and make a lasting impact. For more information on how to get involved, please contact us at programs@acaottawa.com or email us through our website.
Youth Entrepreneurship and Mentorship Program
The Youth Entrepreneurship and Training Program is a training and mentorship program that provides Black youth with skills, work experience, and professional networks to improve their employability and to succeed in the workforce of today and tomorrow. The program provides the essential tools and techniques needed to gain meaningful employment and excel in the workplace environment. It also teams up with various private and public sector organizations to help participants develop confidence and entrepreneurial skills to succeed in the world of business and public service.
Youth Hockey Program
The African Hockey Association is dedicated to providing a safe environment for kids in the Ottawa area to learn and participate in Canada’s national winter sport without fear of discrimination. Even though ice hockey is recognized as Canada’s national sport, many marginalized youths still face challenges when it comes to participating. Financial barriers and racial discrimination are a few reasons preventing some of our youth from playing the sport.
Learn more here.