Youth Climate Corps BC (YCCBC), in partnership with the City of Vernon, is proud to announce the return of the Vernon Youth Climate Corps team for the 2026 summer season.
Now entering its second season in Vernon, YCCBC continues to grow as a province-wide initiative offering youth paid, hands-on opportunities to contribute to meaningful climate action projects in their own communities while developing leadership and workforce skills for the future.
This season in Vernon, local youth will once again work in partnership with the City of Vernon, the Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO), and community organizations to support climate action and strengthen local resilience.
The 2026 Vernon Youth Climate Corps team will be led by Co-Leads Ryan Koelwyn and Liz Stewart, who will work alongside four Climate Action Mobilizers throughout the summer season.
Projects this year will focus on:
- Ecological restoration, stewardship, and environmental monitoring
- FireSmart and community resilience initiatives
- Active transportation and sustainable mobility projects
- Youth education and climate engagement
- Community outreach and public awareness initiatives
A major focus this season will be expanding sustainable transportation initiatives throughout Vernon, including community bike rides and the continued development of the city’s bike valet program. The team will also continue supporting restoration work and stewardship initiatives in collaboration with RDNO, including projects connected to wetland restoration, trail networks, and agricultural parklands.
During the 2025 season, the Vernon Youth Climate Corps team completed 533 Climate Action Days (1 climate action day = 1 youth x 1 full workday) while supporting a wide range of climate and community initiatives. The team organized guided e-bike safety rides to promote low-carbon transportation options, supported more than 100 student-led climate action projects through the CARE program, and piloted a new bike valet service in partnership with the City of Vernon.
Youth also played an important role in raising awareness of Vernon’s Climate Action Plan through weekly outreach at local markets and by producing a public awareness video focused on sustainable transportation. To strengthen their skills and better support the community, the team also completed FireSmart and first aid training.
These local efforts are part of YCCBC’s growing province-wide impact. As the organization continues to expand, YCCBC is equipping young people with the skills, experience, and confidence needed to address climate challenges while helping build stronger, more connected, and more resilient communities across British Columbia.
Community leaders and government representatives shared their support for the continued growth of the Vernon Youth Climate Corps program:
“Youth Climate Corps represents the kind of community-based climate leadership we need more of across British Columbia. I’m proud to continue supporting a program that empowers youth while helping communities become stronger and more resilient.” — Brittny Anderson, Minister of State for Local Governments and Rural Communities
“Addressing the climate crisis requires leadership, innovation and bold action. Through programs like the Youth Climate Corps, young people in Vernon are taking meaningful steps toward strengthening community resilience while helping to build the skilled workforce we need for a low-carbon future.” — Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions
“The Vernon Youth Climate Corps program is creating meaningful opportunities for young people to build skills, gain experience and make a positive impact in our community. It’s so inspiring to see youth stepping into leadership roles while supporting environmental sustainability and community resilience here in Vernon-Lumby. To the youth: you are our future and I am so moved and encouraged to see your engagement, your dedication and your hard work. Thank you for the amazing work you do.” — Harwinder Sandhu, MLA for Vernon-Lumby
“Youth Climate Corps BC has proven its ability to deliver meaningful climate action at the community level while empowering young people with valuable skills and experience. Vernon has seen firsthand the positive impact this program can have, and we are proud to support YCCBC’s continued leadership both locally and as a model for national youth climate action.” — Mayor Victor Cumming, City of Vernon
About Youth Climate Corps BC:
Youth Climate Corps BC (YCCBC) supports young people to take community-based climate action with employment and training opportunities that combine living-wage compensated work with job readiness and leadership training. Through program terms designed to meet community and participant needs, youth aged 17–30 lead and support projects that reduce emissions, build community resilience, and advance climate justice. Rooted in B.C., our model contributes to a growing national movement for youth-led climate action and workforce development. Participants gain valuable job experience, career development skills, and professional networks while making tangible contributions to a fair and livable future. For more information about the Youth Climate Corps BC and upcoming initiatives, please visit the YCCBC Website or contact info@youthclimatecorps.com.