Global Heroes: Youth Employment Services YES: Critical Part of Canada’s Social Services Network & Creating Safer, Stronger Communities
Global Heroes: “I was homeless and living on the street. I had almost lost hope… and then I said YES to YES!” said Jared, a YES client. “YES gave me new hope, found me a full-time job, and saved my life!” This is just one of the hundreds of thousands of success stories YES has fostered since its beginnings in 1968. With free employment training programs, YES has reduced poverty, created job opportunities, and built safer, more resilient communities across Canada.
Social Safety Network
Most youth who turn to YES face significant barriers to employment, ranging from mental health challenges to economic inequality. YES has proven to be an essential part of Canada’s social safety network, offering opportunities to those most in need. Toronto’s recognition by The Economist magazine as the top city globally for youth opportunity reflects this balance of economic growth and social support. This achievement is not just due to a thriving economy but also the existence of health care, education, and organizations like YES, which empower vulnerable youth to overcome obstacles and thrive.
The New Economy
According to Timothy Lang, YES President and CEO, “Canadian youth are the future drivers of our economy, and YES prepares tens of thousands of youth annually for this future.” By partnering with thousands of businesses, YES bridges the gap between youth and the evolving labour market, placing young people into meaningful jobs. Lang emphasizes that YES continuously innovates to stay ahead of market trends, offering programs aligned with the future of work, including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, green jobs, and skilled trades. “Above all, we give new hope and resilience and truly change lives,” Lang added.
Return on Investment
YES relies on a combination of government funding, corporate partnerships, and private donations to sustain its programs. Lang highlights how investing in youth through YES delivers measurable returns: “For every dollar invested, it returns $3 to the economy in the form of tax revenue, new spending, and reduced dependency on social services.” This impact is not only financial but also social, empowering individuals to regain stability and purpose. Another YES client shared: “I couldn’t find work for months and was losing hope, but thanks to YES, I am now part of a team and able to provide for my family.”
Changing Lives by the Numbers
YES makes a tangible difference every year:
- 15,000 youth served annually
- Collaborates with organizations nationwide on mental health training and entrepreneurship
- 67% of participants have a highest education level of Grade 12 or less
- 55% identify as Black, Asian, Latin American, or Indigenous
- 22% report mental health challenges
- 83% come from low- or no-income backgrounds
- 15% are individuals with disabilities
The ripple effect of YES’s work extends beyond individual clients—it strengthens families, businesses, and communities. By helping youth develop new skills and secure employment, YES ensures a brighter future for everyone. Their work exemplifies how meaningful support and opportunities can transform lives and make Canadian society more inclusive and prosperous.
