Connecting to BC’s Parks

This summer, dozens of youth connected to YWCA Metro Vancouver programs explored local green spaces as part of the BC Parks Foundation’s 25x25 initiative. Six outings were facilitated by YWCA Career Zone, bringing youth into parks that could otherwise be difficult to access. 

“I haven’t been to most of these parks because they’re actually far and not easy to get to,” Nina Chou, senior operations manager at YWCA Career Zone, said. “Giving them that opportunity and seeing how just blown away they are when they get there or even on the way there is definitely a highlight.” 

BC Parks Foundation’s 25x25 initiative is a campaign to protect 25% of BC's land and waters by 2025. The campaign encourages locals to get out and enjoy provincial parks and collect observations—such as through photography, sketches or poetry—of their experiences in nature.  

YWCA outings included trips to Porteau Cove, Shannon Falls, Golden Ears, Cypress, Mt. Seymour and Murrin provincial parks. 

“During the Shannon Falls trip, my eyes were drawn to the top of the falls, where the spray of the water was lit by the sun,” Celina, a participant, said about her experience. “Walking in the forest and for a moment only seeing smooth rock as the backdrop was stunning. It felt like a wonderful reminder of how much I love being on this land, after a long time spent only in the city.” 

Not only were the youth able to connect with nature, but they connected with each other. Some have even made plans to revisit the parks on their own. 

“Just seeing the youth come from different backgrounds, different programs and they’re here for this outing was quite nice to see them talking to each other and connecting and sharing experiences,” Nina said. 

Career Zone is a youth employment centre located in downtown Vancouver. It's for job seekers aged 16-30 and is a place where they can access a range of free employment services. For more information, reach out to careerzone@ywcava.org.