Youth 4 the Credit

• What: A mandatory virtual training session will give teens the guidance they need to participate in the Youth 4 the Credit stewardship events.
• Duration: 90 minutes (approximate)
• Who: Youth participating in the program and CVC staff
• Topics Covered: CVC’s Code of Conduct policies, health and safety for the stewardship event, how to prepare for the field trip, and a presentation covering local nature and wildlife, issues affecting environmental health such as climate change, how to take action, and more!
• Registration: Teens must attend our mandatory training session before they can participate in events. Participants only need to attend one training per season (i.e., one in the spring, one in the fall).

• What: A hands-on stewardship project and nature activity led by CVC staff. Participants may:
  • Plant native trees and shrubs
  • Conduct field studies (e.g., tree or stream study)
  • Take a hike on a trail
  • Explore local plants and animals, the impacts of climate change and/or local environmental issues through other activities.
• Duration: Four hours (approximately 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., with a lunch break)
• Who: Youth participating in the program and CVC staff
• Registration: Teens can register for multiple events, but we ask that you fully commit to the days you sign up for because space is limited.
• COVID-19 Safety: Teens are expected to follow COVID-19 guidelines at all times.

• The program is designed to give high school aged youth an opportunity to connect with nature and take part in environmental activities.
• Youth can earn volunteer hours required to graduate.
• Participants must be between the ages of 14-18 to participate and have completed grade eight.
• Participants must complete one online mandatory training session before attending in-person Youth 4 the Credit events.
• The Youth 4 the Credit Stewardship program is free thanks to generous support of funders and is offered to youth within the Credit River Watershed 
• Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from event sites.
• Washroom amenities may not be available at some event sites.
• The program runs rain or shine, with exception of severe weather.
• Participants are expected to follow CVC’s Code of Conduct policies at all times to ensure all participants have the greatest individual experience during the program.

The wellbeing of our participants and staff is our top priority. Participants are required to follow COVID-19 best practices and safety protocols:

• Stay at home if you are feeling sick, if you have been in contact with anyone who has tested positive or are under self-quarantine.
• Practice physical distancing and best hygiene practices in compliance with local and provincial guidelines. We will do everything we can to ensure participants maintain physical distancing at our events.  Staff and participants will be asked to wear a face mask in vehicles if distancig cannot be maintained.
• Bring your own snacks, lunch and water.
• Bring your own mask and gloves. We have extra supplies.
• Equipment and supplies, such as shovels, will be provided but you can bring your own.
• Dress for the weather and wear long pants and closed-toe shoes or boots.
• You must acknowledge and read all CVC waivers and forms.
• You must also bring a signed Youth 4 the Credit waiver form signed by a parent/guardian (no digital signatures) in order to participate in the event
• Online registration and COVID-19 pre-screening are required. You must complete the online self-screening  24 hours before an event and upon arrival at the event.
• You will receive notification if events change or are cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions.