“To say that it changed my life would be an understatement ”
— Wade, Youth Participant
“It’s just fun to be up there instead of cramped up in the city. You feel, well, I feel there’s nothing I can’t do. There’s a bunch of open air so you have your own space, instead of being cramped in the house with four walls around you; there’s no boundaries so just freedom and you can yell as loud as you want and sing as loud as you want ”
— Tyler, Youth Participant
“I see Project Canoe as a way of introducing Canada to newcomer youth. lt offers these young people a real opportunity to explore and learn about their new country, while also developing skills and experiences that would help any young person become more confident and self-reliant. lt is very moving to see a group of newcomer youth at their first campfire in the woods, talking and laughing as they exchange stories about their arrival in Canada and sing the Canadian anthem together because it is the only song they all know. They came from all over the world, but heading out to the woods together brought out their common humanity and their common bond to their new home.”
“It was a great experience…. Opened up a love of wilderness and canoeing that is still strong today.”
— Kevin, Youth Participant
“Project Canoe runs a unique program that is fun, challenging, and encourages youth to step out of their comfort zones. However, what sets Project Canoe apart is their ability to challenge, while still maintaining a caring and supportive environment.
The staff at Project Canoe have demonstrated that they are truly gifted when it comes to alleviating anxieties, lending an extra hand or paddle, and helping youth cope over the course of the trip.”
— Adam Benn, Manager of LGBTQ Community Programs - Sherbourne Health Centre
“The trip changed my attitude and approach to life. I was an innercity at-risk kid…now I am principal of an Elementary School.”
— Andre, Youth Participant, 1979-80
“He went away as an angry little boy and came back a totally in charge young man. The teaching of patience and tolerance by the leaders is immeasurable”
— Kathie, Parent/Guardian
“Thinking back to that summer, I can see how my mind has grown, my skills have evolved and how my heart is still focused on the same things: helping people realize their potential.”
