What is YPI?
YPI is an inclusive, multi-award-winning approach to grant-making that grows compassionate communities by connecting high school students to social issues, local charities, and philanthropy at a pivotal stage in their adolescence.
Our Impact
ACROSS CANADA SINCE 2002
More Than
have been provided by YPI’s funders to be granted by youth through our inclusive, participatory process
Over
have developed skills, competencies and positive attitudes towards civic engagement
Over
have learned about social issues from students advocating in their communities
Over
have been helped by frontline social service charities who have won grants through YPI
VISION
Canada’s young people are included, empowered, and engaged in creating more compassionate and connected communities where they live, and a more philanthropic future for all.
MISSION
YPI Canada is growing connected, compassionate communities through our inclusive, multi-award-winning approach to youth-led participatory grant-making. By 2024, our goal is to grant $1M annually to charities decided by 40,000 engaged and empowered youth, and to connect 350,000 Canadians each year around caring for social causes in their communities.
Our strategic priorities for 2019-2024
PHILANTHROPY
Increase funding, diversify revenue sources, and build a sustainable YPI granting model.
EDUCATION
Deepen YPI's impact on youth and schools. Expand enrolment to new communities.
CHARITIES
Increase YPI's value for participating charities. Leverage YPI for lasting community impact.
Get Involved!
Apply or Nominate a School
Sign up to bring the YPI Program to your school.
Support Our Work
Find out how you can help YPI Canada to grow compassionate communities.
See the Charities Youth Advocate for
Take a look at some of the many charities our YPI participants have empowered with their grants.
Awards
2010
Canadian Best Practice in Civic Education
The Institute for Canadian Citizenship
2011
Premier’s Award for Philanthropy in Education
Government of Ontario
2014
Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship (OMC)
Government of Ontario
2014
June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award
Government of Ontario
2015
Honorary Doctorate in Civil Law
Julie Toskan
Saint Mary's University
2016
Meritorious Service Medal (Civilian)
Julie Toskan
Governor General of Canada
In the News
The Globe and Mail • MARCH 21, 2022
“The students inspire us to continue to grow more compassionate communities,” says YPI’s founder Julie Toskan. “YPI’s twentieth anniversary offers an opportunity to look to the future beyond the pandemic. We are challenging ourselves to not only meet the ambitious goals for 2024 in YPI’s five-year strategic plan but to exceed them given the urgency to support charities and the communities they serve.”
