John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights Receives Telus Community Board Funding to Empower Youth in Civic Engagement

Edmonton, AB - October 31, 2024 — The John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights (JHC) is proud to announce its receipt of funding from the Telus Community Board in support of a new youth empowerment initiative. Since 2020, young people have asked JHC to fill a critical gap in youth-centered education that empowers young people to influence policies impacting their lives. The funding will enable JHC to respond to this need by developing and delivering targeted training on civic engagement and policy influence in collaboration with youth in Edmonton, Wetaskiwin, and Grande Prairie.

Through this project, JHC will equip youth with essential skills to engage decision-makers and influence policy, answering a direct call from youth who have expressed the need for skills training in leadership and advocacy. Building on the Social Stride program and ongoing work in rural Alberta, the project aims to strengthen youth voices and foster practical skills for active civic participation.

With Telus Community Board's support, the initiative will prioritize innovative and accessible training, aligning with JHC’s strategic commitment to engaging youth in peacebuilding and human rights education. Key components of the project will include:

  • Youth-Driven Training Modules: Youth will lead in designing a free, online policy advocacy module to build practical policy and decision-maker engagement skills.

  • Accessible Learning Solutions: JHC will enhance its Learning Management System (LMS) and integrate AI tools to deliver accessible, high-quality education across Alberta.

  • Empowering Civic Participation: This project ensures youth shape their communities and policies that affect them, positioning youth as essential to civic life.

"We believe that empowering young people is essential to a thriving, inclusive democracy," said Renée Vaugeois, Executive Director at  JHC. "Thanks to Telus Community Board's support, we can work directly with youth in building a future where their voices are heard and valued in decision-making processes that impact their lives."

______________________

The John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights works to advance dignity, freedom, justice, and security through collaborative relationships and transformative education on peace and human rights.

Media Contact:
Nexi Alarcon, Director of Arts and Communications
nexi@jhcentre.org     I     780.289.3079


Neximar AlarconSocial Stride, Human Rights Education, youth rights, Rural youth, human rights