EMPOWERING YOUTH

We're helping youth make safe and healthy choices.

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Yo Bro | Yo Girl Youth Initiative runs a series of strength-based programs in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.  We cultivate resiliency in at-risk youth and empower them with tools to avoid the perils of drugs, gangs, crime and violence.

Two young individuals in hoodies standing face to face inside a dimly lit, abandoned building with exposed brick and beams: one bro, one girl.
Gangs and Our Youth

Children and youth in gangs are put into life-threatening situations by those who recruit them. It is a dangerous game because most will have to carry out violence acts to prove themselves, which puts them at the centre of gang wars, and at high risk for criminal charges.

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A group of young students in a martial arts class, following an instructor's demonstration on a yellow mat, enthusiastically shout
Our Approach

We focus on prevention. And we start in Grade 6.
By starting in elementary school, Yo Bro | Yo Girl Youth Initiative staff and volunteer mentors aim to develop strong, healthy community early, whether it’s in school, after school, or during school holidays.

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Resources

Two young men involved in a gang prevention program standing near a chain-link fence, one in the foreground with a beard and black shirt, the other slightly out of focus in the background.

Gang Prevention – Get the real facts about gangs and crime prevention in BC

Two boys smiling and standing together in a schoolyard on a sunny day; one wearing a yellow shirt and camo shorts, the other in a purple shirt and blue jeans.

E.R.A.S.E. Bullying – Expect respect, and a safe education

A young boy sits alone against a brick wall in a school hallway, head down on his knees, as other children walk away in the background during an anti-bullying awareness event.

Kids Help Phone - Free web, phone counselling for ages 20 and under

End Gang Life

Gang & Violence Prevention

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Children in purple shirts sitting on a gym floor, raising their hands and looking attentively forward during a group activity. For further details, contact us.

Every kid needs someone to look up to, to model their lives after. “Maybe I could be the person who, when it mattered, kids could listen to. Maybe I could be the person who pulls them back on the right track,” Billy says.

YBYG Story
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Our Programs
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Inspiring Stories
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Testimonials

Stories & Updates from the Team

We’re busy trying to keep up with the youth. But now and again we’d love to tell you about our resilient youth and how much they amaze us every day. Sign up for stories and updates.