Program days will run from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm with a break in the middle when lunch is provided. Each program day will start with a welcome circle and end with a closing circle. The program day is usually divided into two main activities with small activities in between. Half of the day we will be doing learning activities that include a mix of games, activities, and lessons led by EYA educators or program guests including Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers. The other half will be hands-on activities that are focused on growing native plants, restoring wildlife habitat, harvesting, and processing plant medicines.

There are 10 youth participants in each program.

All EYA program leaders are youth ages 22-30 who identify as Indigenous, Black, and/or People of Colour with experience and training in land-based education. You can get to know them and read their bios here.

Yes. You should apply for all the programs that you are interested in and able to attend. Since there is high demand and limited space available, we will only be able to accept you into one program, but knowing all the programs you’d be interested in joining helps us fit you in and increases your chances of being accepted.

We pay an honorarium to support you to participate in this educational program instead of needing to find a job. We also pay an honorarium to recognize the important contribution you’re making to caring for nature in the community, for example growing native plants and restoring wildlife habitat. You will receive the honorarium by e-transfer after the last program day, usually within two weeks.

Earth Allies participants will be offered a living stipend instead of an honorarium.

All programs are based at Strathcona Community Gardens in East Vancouver. This is a 1.4 hectare community-run greenspace in East Vancouver with a native plant teaching garden, greenhouse and native plant nursery, plant medicine gardens, rewilding areas, and solar-powered eco-classroom.

Many programs also include field trips to Renfrew Ravine, a forested ravine in southeast Vancouver with a section of Still Creek running through it, a plant dye garden, and rewilding areas.

We use the following communicable disease protocols to keep our staff and participants safe:

• Face masks are optional. EYA provides disposable masks for staff or participants who choose to wear them.
• If a participant is sick, they should notify an EYA program staff right away.  EYA staff may direct the participant to wear a mask / maintain distance from other participants, or ask them to go home.
• Hands must be washed or sanitized:
  • When entering and leaving the garden
  • After coughing or sneezing
  • Before and after eating

We strive to make our programs as accessible as possible for our participants by being transparent on the inherent barriers that exist, and providing adequate support where possible. We recognize that disabilities are experienced on a spectrum and accessibility needs vary. Here are a few aspects of our programs which may create barriers or require further support to participate safely and comfortably:

• Outdoor program: Rain or shine, in public greenspaces. We have large tents, and warm layers to lend, but participants are exposed to the elements throughout the program day.
• Program areas: uneven ground that has rocks & roots and can be slippery at times.  Some steps and ledges in indoor and outdoor spaces.
• Group composition: Generally 1 staff + 6 participants.  The group dynamic can be stimulating, chaotic, and noisy at times.  Participants can step away as needed if overstimulated.
• Communication: Largely verbal.  Facilitators will utilize visual supports such as white boards and diagrams to support when possible. 
• Accessibility of washroom facilities: At our Strathcona site, the composting toilet is not wheelchair accessible.  At the ravine site, the washroom is a 5 minute walk away, but is wheelchair accessible.
• Activities: Many EYA activities are physical, such as games, digging, planting, walking.  Many activities can have alternative options and be adapted as needed.
• Digital learning: Some programming utilizes digital tools such as video conferencing, slideshows, and online collaboration. Closed captioning is available for video meetings.  Program registration generally takes place online, but paper applications are available.

Accessibility needs are extremely specific to the individual, and therefore this list is not comprehensive. When a youth applies for a program, we provide the opportunity to share about any health concerns, challenges or physical limitations that may require accommodations to support their participation in the program both in our application form and in our confirmation calls.  We can then work together to explore ways that we can adapt our programs and provide support to increase the accessibility.  Please reach out to us directly with any questions or concerns.