North Shore Community Resources
Grant Program: Community Grants 2024
Funder: Howard Martin Memorial Fund
The North Shore Young Civic Forum’s (the “Forum”) goal is to create a group of knowledgeable, skillful, engaged and influential younger adults (aged 18-39) who will have a deeper understanding of the work of local governments through experiential learning. Working directly with local governments on the North Shore (including staff and Councillors), the Forum’s participants are guided through a facilitated learning process about the jurisdiction and work of local governments. The learning phase also includes workshops with local First Nation (Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations) leaders who share information about their history and current affairs. After the learning phase, the Forum’s participants work with local governments on specific projects designed either by the Forum participants directly or in consultation with municipal staff and Councilors.
Project Accomplishments
The fifth cohort of the North Shore Young Civic Forum successfully engaged a diverse group of young adults (ages 18–39) in civic education. Through workshops, discussions with elected officials and municipal staff, and collaborative project development, participants strengthened their understanding of local government while building their confidence. Five participant-led projects were presented to North Shore municipal councils, addressing civic engagement, mental health, housing, food security, youth participation, and social inclusion. The Forum strengthened connections between young residents and local governments, fostering meaningful civic participation and helping ensure youth perspectives inform municipal decision-making.