Youth Development Initiative
The Youth Development Initiative (YDI) is a year-round support program funded by the Department of Opportunities and Social Development. YDI provides culturally focused programs and employment support services for Indigenous youth through cultural enrichment, wrap around supports, paid work placements, training, and essential life skills, and engagement in their Indigenous communities.
Eligibility
The program is open to Indigenous youth between the ages of 12 to 20 years old, whether they live on or off-reserve in Nova Scotia.
Staff Information
Social Youth & YDI Coordinator
- Email: ncnsydi@ncns.ca
- Phone: (902) 895-1738
YDI Contracts Officer/ Youth Administrative Support
- Email: youthadmin@ncns.ca
- Phone: (902) 895-1738
- Cell: (902) 957-5505
Youth Outreach Worker – Dartmouth Region
- Email: ncnsyouth@ncns.ca
- Office: (902) 405-4730
- Cell: (902) 233-9528
Youth Outreach Worker – Coldbrook Region
- Email: youthvalley@ncns.ca
- Office: (902) 679-7577
- Phone: (902) 321-8941
Youth Outreach Worker – Sydney Region
- Email: cbyouth@ncns.ca
- Phone: (902) 567-1240
- Cell: (902) 577-5843
Community Grant Information
Program and Services
Assist with a smooth transition for Indigenous youth into the workforce, enhance their understanding and appreciation of their cultural heritage, and equip them with essential life skills. YDI funds a variety of supports and services that are youth-focused and community-based. YDI’s holistic approach includes:
Community Engagement
- Indigenous Youth Community Grants Program
- Financial assistance to support community-based projects initiated by Indigenous youth.
- Community projects
- Volunteer placements
Strengthening Life Skills
Offering courses on financial literacy, communication skills, and personal development to help youth navigate various aspects of adult life.
- Driver’s Training
- Leadership development
- Leadership training and service learning
- Group-based experiential learning opportunities.
Career Development
Providing workshops and training sessions tailored to prepare youth for employment, including resume writing, interview skills, and job search strategies.
- Paid Work Placements (full or part time employment)
- Short-term training
- Job shadowing
- Certificate Training
- Opportunities to gain certifications in various fields, improving employability and skill sets
- Wrap Around Support for Employment Opportunities
- Holistic support to ensure youth have the necessary resources to pursue and sustain employment
- Pre-Employment Intervention
- Guidance and resources to help youth prepare for and secure employment, including pre-employment training and educational support
- Indigenous Youth Community Grants Program
- Financial assistance to support community-based career projects initiated by Indigenous youth.
Access to Cultural and Recreational Activities
- Cultural Enrichment
- Organizing activities and programs that promote cultural awareness and pride, fostering a strong sense of identity and community among participants
- Summer Camps & Youth Retreats
- Seasonal programs that offer enriching experiences and personal growth opportunities in a supportive environment
- Team building activities
- Indigenous Youth Community Grants Program
Financial assistance to support cultural, community-based projects initiated by Indigenous youth