About Us
What is the Youth On the Land (YOLO) Community?
The YOLO Community (Youth On the Land Opportunities) is a network of over 350 people across Canada supporting land-based learning opportunities for all youth. Members include those working in stewardship departments, Indigenous Guardian programs, health centres, schools, child/family services, non-profits, and more. Together, we share resources, stories, challenges, and encouragement, strengthening each other in the shared work of supporting the next generation of leaders.
Mission
The YOLO Community connects and supports people and communities delivering land-based learning programs and practices. The YOLO Community prioritizes strengthening relationships, knowledge-sharing, and building collective capacity so both practitioners and youth can thrive on and with the land.
Vision
A future where land-based practitioners are connected and supported, so that youth and communities thrive on and with the land.
Our Ways of Working
Youth Centred
We recognize all youth as knowledge holders, leaders, and essential voices in shaping a sustainable future. We support practitioners to create opportunities for youth to connect with the land, ensuring youth remain at the heart of the work.
Indigenous-Informed
Our work is guided by Indigenous ways of knowing and doing. We uphold relational accountability, respect local protocols, and support practices grounded in culture, community, and land. We recognize that knowledge is held in the land and that this work is shaped by the specific lands, peoples, and relationships it comes from.
Honouring Local Vision
We acknowledge that communities and practitioners hold the most accurate knowledge of their own contexts. We follow the lead of community and offer support that strengthens local leadership, priorities, and ways of working.
Regional and Cultural Equity
We value inclusive and balanced representation across regions, sectors, organizations, Nations, and cultural contexts. We work to ensure equitable access to support, resources, and opportunities, recognizing that needs may vary across communities.
Collaboration, Shared Learning, and Capacity Building
We value collective wisdom and create space for collaboration and knowledge-sharing. By strengthening relationships and building capacity, we support the long-term sustainability of land-based work.
Responsiveness and Adaptability
Our work is dynamic and responsive to the evolving needs of practitioners and communities. We remain open to new voices and approaches to ensure our support remains relevant and intentional.