Project North

The YMCA offers an innovative leadership experience for students in Grades 9 to 12 from Sarnia and surrounding First Nations communities. This project follows the successful YMCA Project Kenya which occurred in Sarnia-Lambton (2012-2013), Project Guatemala in Chatham-Kent (2014-2015), and Project North (2017, 2018 , 2019).

Since the pandemic, the opportunity to travel has not yet returned, but the programs values remain the same. Providing youth with an enriching Leadership opportunity designed to build upon the YMCA’s tradition of providing quality, values-based programs and services within our communities. This unique project will involve participants in a wide variety of leadership development experiences with a special focus on community service and philanthropy.  Participants will gain insight into their personal leadership potential and abilities, group dynamics, communication, volunteerism and philanthropy. They will also develop a new perspective and sense of responsibility as members of the global community.   

Project Impact 

This project has many potential impacts, bringing together a group of young people who have committed to an incredible leadership development initiative. These participants will need to be extremely motivated to learn and grow and make a difference in their community. This project will create an opportunity for the YMCA to work in partnership with the community, including Sarnia’s surrounding First Nations communities. The project will also help to increase the YMCA’s profile as an organization committed to youth and leadership development.   

The project creates a tremendous opportunity for participants to learn more about fundraising and embrace philanthropy. The young people developing their leadership potential will have a cumulative impact on their families, schools, friends and the greater community.