2007 National Vital Signs Report
Belonging and Leadership
In 2004, when the last national survey was taken, 45.3% of Canadians over age 15 were engaged in unpaid volunteer work. As we look toward the future, younger Canadians age 15-24 volunteer at an even higher rate: 55%.10
Taking Action
Toronto's Vital Signs report in 2005 helped relate the growth in youth violence, the ten-year high in youth unemployment, and the dramatic drop in youth involvement (after the age of 12) in all forms of recreational activity. Armed with this data, the Toronto Community Foundation led the development of a partnership between the Foundation, the City, Toronto's school boards, United Way and sports organizations. The result was the Toronto Sport Leadership Program that, in its first two years, recruited and trained over 200 youth from 21 different high schools in two of Toronto's most vulnerable areas. Youth were given the opportunity to train for certification in sport leadership in aquatics, basketball and soccer coaching. They were introduced to recreation employers. Many secured employment in community leadership roles as lifeguards, coaches and camp leaders, not only enhancing their own futures, but also providing positive role models in their communities.
