VOCYL gives youth the chance to develop leadership skills with the goal of promoting an inclusive community for all. Find out more about who we are and join us!

slideshow 1 slideshow 2 slideshow 3

Welcome to VOCYL!

Victoria Opportunities for Community Youth Leadership is a unique program that brings together young people who are interested in creating an inclusive community for all. VOCYL gives participating youth the chance to develop leadership skills through activities such as: developing and delivering presentations and workshops to high school students; planning social and fundraising events; participating in camping trips, adaptive recreational sports and retreats; and building a support network among themselves.

At VOCYL, we believe that everyone has the right to belong.

Latest News

Fri, 05/11/2012

VOCYL is thrilled to be hosting it's 4th Annual Talent Show on Tuesday May 29th from 7-9pm.  Come experience this fun filled night as watch as VOCYL youth display their unique gifts and Talents!  From singing to skits and artwork, the VOCYL youth have a lot in store for you to see.  This event will take place at Emmanuel Baptist Church at 2121 Cedar Hill X Rd.  The entrance fee is by donation and there will also be a 50/50 draw, a concession, and a Silent Auction with prizes from Lush, West 49, Starbucks and much much more. 

Thu, 12/15/2011

Thanks to funding from The United Way of Greater Victoria, VOCYL was able to deliver a series of assemblies and workshops to grade six students at two local middle schools challenging the students on issues of inclusion and belonging for everyone.

The workshops inspired Grade 6 students at Glanford and Cedar Hill Middle School to remove the social barriers that can lead to loneliness, bullying and cliques, and to help them to develop skills that support inclusive relationships and a welcoming school culture.

Member Spotlight

Tracy Gill

Tracy Gill joined the CanAssist/Community Living Victoria team in September 2008 as a program coordinator for the VOCYL program. Tracy received her Community Support worker diploma in June 2000 and since that time has been a frontline worker for children and youth with disabilities. Tracy has more than 15 years of volunteer experience working with children, youth and seniors in a variety of settings. Her passion lies in creating inclusion and belonging for everyone.

Donors

Donations and grants make it possible for VOCYL to share its message of inclusion with hundreds of students and others in the community each year. The support we receive is greatly appreciated.

  • Queen Alexandra Youth Council
  • Youth in Philantrophy
  • Youth Philantrophy Initiative
  • Queen Alexandra Foundation
  • United Way
  • Telus
  • Vancity

 

VOCYL

VOCYL's philosophy is that everyone has a right to belong - no matter their race, gender, size, age, sexual orientation or ability. VOCYL members come from diverse backgrounds and abilities, and include those with and without developmental disabilities. Yet they have a common desire to share their knowledge and advocate change in their local high schools and communities. They meet bi-weekly and have many opportunities to get to know new people and participate in worthwhile events.

Governing Partners

CanAssist

Community Living Victoria

University of Victoria