History

YesBC (Youth for Environmental Stewardship) is a registered, volunteer run, non-profit organzation founded in 2008 by Judy Fainstein, in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Our programs were initially delivered in schools through leadership and environmental clubs and in the community through building partnerships and collaborations with other organizations that share our commitment to taking positive action. Since 2008, YesBC programs have grown and provided opportunities for thousands of young people to engage in issues of critical importance to them. Our programs have always been co-developed by young people whose future depends on taking action and engaging in democracy. Our Youth Climate Action Summits and Off the Grid Festivals have provided young people with many opportunities to lead through giving presentations, workshops, event planning and hosting.

JEDI Statement

YesBC is committed to making Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) integral to our work and the strength of our organization. We seek to include and uplift a diversity of racial and ethnic identity, gender, age, religion, culture, ability, and sexual orientation. We seek to include those who have been historically under-represented. We proactively build our community to include people from diverse backgrounds. On our journey, our learning and growth will come through challenges, opportunities, mistakes, failures, and successes along the way. We are committed to openness and transparency in our work. It is our goal to create a sense of belonging for everyone.