By: Aleksandra Spasevski Aleks is one of the founding members of CYBN where her passion was to protect and enhance Canada's natural biodiversity through advocacy work and action. She is a graduate student at the University of Waterloo where she is examining how to improve intergenerational relationships within youth service programs to enhance social and environmental impact on communities. Abstract: Organizational leaders and decision-makers who wish to enhance social and environmental impact should look to support youth by creating space for meaningful passion, participation, youth voice, collective action. Additionally, leaders and decision-makers must develop relationships with young people to further the reach of their goals and projects. For the past two years, I have worked tirelessly to learn how organizations can support young people in order to advance social and environmental change. Young people across Canada are incredibly educated and looking for meaningful and valuable experiences. However, young people face barriers like financial challenges and mental health that prevent them from taking opportunities. As a result, youth have leaned away from volunteer opportunities as they typically don’t provide the support young people need in order to be successful. Within my thesis I focused on youth service programs as they provide compensation for young people’s times and effort. Youth service programs look to achieve social and environmental change by partnering with local communities and young people. Both young people and organizations benefit from working together (Christens & Dolan, 2011). Young people benefit from engaging in these types of opportunities as it can enhance development, skills, and knowledge. Whereas organizations will focus on engaging young people as youth provide a unique view-point on complex community dynamics. This unique relationship is more formally known as intergenerational collaboration. Intergenerational collaboration focuses on enhancing relationships between adults and young people. Past researchers and scientists have emphasized the important role adults play within these relationships. This is because these relationships are often difficult to cultivate as they take time and effort. However, if done successfully, organizations, communities and individuals can benefit (Raposa et al., 2019). An additional component to making these youth service programs successful is the focus on youth engagement. Youth engagement is not a simple as including young people in projects. It is a dynamic idea that involves a combination of ideas and approaches. Researchers within the field of community development and youth development have described extensively the importance of participation, passion, youth voice and collective action. (Witt & Caldwell, 2018). Each strategy plays a vital role in how adults from any organization can successfully engage with youth to support youth development and the social impact they hope to achieve. With these tips, high levels of youth engagement successfully engages youth within all four essential characteristics of youth engagement (Saito & Sullivan, 2011).
support young people through passion by creating opportunities for youth to create meaningful projects, develop meaningful relationships with youth to encourage shared decision making through youth empowerment and communication and support youth in becoming leaders. The second tip outlines the importance of supporting youth to build meaningful connections with community members and places and actively participating in projects. Creating opportunities for youth to participate in meaningful engagements supports successful civic engagement, enables skill-building and enhances academic achievements (Gazley, Littlepage, & Bennett, 2012; Saito & Sullivan, 2011). Decision makers are recommended to support young people through participation by encouraging youth to be apart of planning processes, support youth in building meaningful community relationships, and supporting youth in becoming project and community leaders. In addition, encouraging youth to speak out and take leadership opportunities is another important component to youth engagement. However, decision-makers and leaders must know that it is not enough for youth to just speak out decision-makers. It is incredibly important that organisations listen to youth and take their opinions seriously. Giving opportunities to youth to speak freely is beneficial because it can enhance efficiency in the organisation and skill-building in youth (Anyon et al., 2019; Maki & Snyder, 2017; Saito & Sullivan, 2011). Decision makers are recommended to support young people through youth voice by encouraging youth to be apart of project decision-making, support youth in autonomous decision making and critical thinking and actively listen to youth employees and volunteers. The last tip recommended to decision makers is collective action. This refers to the shared decision-making power that adults and youth can share. The goal of collective action is to work together while achieving the goals of the project and to successfully improve social change (Franzen et al., 2009; Schulman, 2006). Decision makers are recommended to support young people through collective action by supporting skill building, creating autonomy promoted environments and build meaningful relationships with youth through mentorship. Within my thesis, I focused on skill building, meaningful projects, youth empowerment, critical thinking, autonomy, and mentorship as tools to enhance youth engagement within these programs. As a result, I highly recommend any organizational decision-maker or leader to involve youth in project planning and development. I understand it takes trust and understanding to build relationships, however there are many benefits from including young people including increasing organizational capacity and impact on communities. We can change the world. But we need to do it together. Sources:
Anyon, Y., Roscoe, J., Bender, K., Kennedy, H., Dechants, J., Begun, S., & Gallager, C. (2019). Reconciling adaptation and fidelity: Implications for scaling up high quality youth programs. Journal of Primary Prevention, 40(1), 35–49. Springer US. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1007/s10935-019-00535-6 Christens, B. D., & Dolan, T. (2011). Interweaving youth development, community development, and social change through youth organizing. Youth and Society, 43(2), 528–548. Franzen, S., Morrel-Samuels, S., Reischl, T. M., & Zimmerman, M. A. (2009). Using process evaluation to strengthen intergenerational partnerships in the youth empowerment solutions program. Journal of Prevention and Intervention in the Community, 37(4), 289–301. Gazley, B., Littlepage, L., & Bennett, T. A. (2012). What about the host agency: Nonprofit perspectives on community-based student learning and volunteering. Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly, 41(6), 1029–1050. Maki, A., & Snyder, M. (2017). Investigating similarities and differences between volunteer behaviors: Development of a volunteer interest typology. Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly, 46(1), 5–28. Raposa, E. B., Rhodes, J., Stams, G. J. J. M., Card, N., Burton, S., Schwartz, S., Sykes, L. A. Y., et al. (2019). The effects of youth mentoring programs: A meta-analysis of outcome studies. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 48(3), 423–443. Springer US. Retrieved from http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10964-019-00982-8 Saito, R. N., & Sullivan, T. K. (2011). The many faces, features and outcomes of youth engagement. Journal of Youth Development, 6(3), 107–123. Schulman, S. (2006). Terms of engagement: Aligning youth, adults, and organizations toward social change. Journal of Public Health Management and Practice, 12(SUPPL. 6), 26–31. Weinreich, D. M. (2004). Interdisciplinary teams, mentorship and intergenerational service-learning. Educational Gerontology, 30(2), 143–157. Witt, P. A., & Caldwell, L. L. (2018). Youth development principles and practices in out-of-school time settings. Journal of Youth Development (2nd ed.). Sigamore-Venture. Retrieved from https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED591831
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When one thinks of a wetland, it is possible that images of Shrek’s dark and creepy swamp come to mind. A place where misfits are rejected from society and sent to live among the undesirable. But in reality, wetlands in their natural state are beautiful, peaceful, yet vibrant landscapes that provide us with a place to relax, reconnect with nature, and enjoy many recreational activities. Not to mention, they are home to countless animals, insects and plants that could not survive anywhere else. What are Wetlands? But what exactly is a wetland? Well, there are many definitions, so it depends on who you ask. But generally, they are areas of moving or static water where the soil is seasonally or permanently wet. Not very specific, is it? That is because there are a variety of wetlands, all with their own characteristics, such as marshes, swamps, floodplains, coastal mangroves, and even coral reefs![i] Wetlands can be found around the world and provide us with many free benefits. Why do we care about Wetlands? Wetlands left in their natural state provide us, as human beings, with a variety of direct and indirect benefits (called ecosystem services) that contribute to our health, help fight climate change, support the global economy, and provide us with spiritual enrichment.[ii] They contribute to our health by not only purifying and detoxifying water but replenishing underground aquifers, which 1.5-3 billion people rely on as their main source of drinking water. As a result of their damp conditions, wetland plants grow faster than organic matter can decompose, thereby storing mass amounts of carbon (acting as carbon sinks). They also reduce, delay, and even prevent impacts from floods by storing water. Lastly, they are home to wonderful species such as frogs, salamanders, dragonflies, ducks, and fish, which provide us with a tranquil escape from city life and support ecotourism, which in turn, supports the economy. For example, 35-45 million people engage in recreational fishing in the United States alone, spending roughly $24-37 billion each year. Scuba diving around coral reefs also generates consider dough, about $30 billion each year and heavily rely on healthy, thriving ecosystems.
project, or write to your government representative and express your desire for change. In Canada, this would be your local MPP representative or your province’s Natural Resources Minister. [i] See Convention on Wetlands of International Importance. 1971. art.1 for the broadest definition of a wetland I have come across.
[ii] See Millennium Ecosystem Assessment. 2005. Ecosystems and Human Well-Being: Wetlands and Water for more statistics and descriptions of ecosystem services from wetlands. [iii] Dugan, P. (ed.). 1993. Wetlands in danger: A world conservation atlas. Oxford University Press, New York.
What you may not know is that these trees are actually found all over Toronto! Many people overlook these tasty treats growing close by their homes. ‘Tis the season for serviceberries, so keep an eye out when you are out on your next walk. They are wonderful eaten fresh, and are also delicious in pies, jams, and other baked goods!
For tips on identifying serviceberry, check this out: http://www.canadiantreetours.org/species-pages/Serviceberry.html Disclaimer: Do not consume any wild plant unless you are 100% sure of its identification. Be sure you are picking from non-polluted areas, away from roads, and where no pesticides or other contaminants may have been used. Consult your doctor before consuming wild plants.
Dandelions (Taraxacum officinale) are one of the most versatile weeds. They originate from Eurasia but are not considered invasive in Ontario because they do not cause significant damage to native plants and local ecosystems. I love dandelions because the whole plant is edible and nutritious! You can eat the leaves in a salad, make “dandelion coffee” with the roots, and use the flowers to make all sorts of things like jelly, syrup, and even infused soaps and lotion bars!  Do you have a lot of dandelions in your yard? Not sure what to do with them? Try making some Dandelion Fritters! They are easy and tasty, and can be made sweet or savoury.
smooth. Warm oil in a skillet at medium heat. Holding the bottom of the dandelions, dip the flowers into the batter and place gently into the oil. Do not crowd the pan. Once they start to turn golden brown, flip, and brown the other side. Remove from the pan and drain any excess oil. Serve fresh!
Disclaimer: Do not consume any wild plant unless you are 100% sure of its identification. Be sure you are picking from non-polluted areas, away from roads, and where no pesticides or other contaminants may have been used. Consult your doctor before consuming wild plants.
Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is native to eastern Asia and was introduced to North America as an ornamental plant in the late 19th century. As many invasive plants do, Japanese Knotweed escaped gardens and is now one of the most aggressive invasive plants in Ontario. Japanese Knotweed prefers moist soils, but can be found in many disturbed areas. The bamboo-like plant is extremely fast-growing and forms dense thickets that outcompete and displace native plants. Two-thirds of the plant is actually underground in an extensive root system, making it exceedingly difficult to remove.
Pieces of Japanese Knotweed stem or rhizome can produce new plants, so be sure to dispose of the scraps properly! I usually microwave or bake the scraps in the oven on high heat before disposing them. So what does Japanese Knotweed taste like? How should you cook it? Japanese Knotweed has a flavour similar to rhubarb— sour, with a light earthy taste. Make sure to clean your harvest thoroughly, and be aware that the plant will be slightly slimy when it gets wet.
If you’re not sure what to do with knotweed, my rule of thumb is that you can take any rhubarb recipe and substitute it with Japanese Knotweed. For example, they are a great substitution in recipes like Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble, Rhubarb Custard Pie, and Rhubarb Squares. I made some Japanese Knotweed Squares using this recipe as a base, and they turned out delicious!
If you’re curious to taste Japanese Knotweed, keep an eye out for their sprouting shoots in the early spring.* They grow very quickly so the earlier, the better. *If you are going to harvest Japanese Knotweed, make sure it has not been sprayed, as many regions use herbicides to try to control the invasive plant. Disclaimer: Do not consume any wild plant unless you are 100% sure of its identification. Be sure you are picking from non-polluted areas, away from roads, and where no pesticides or other contaminants may have been used. Consult your doctor before consuming wild plants.
Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) is out and thriving! This plant is a common sight in moist areas, and although they are considered weeds, they are edible, tasty, and healthy. Originally from Europe, this plant is invasive but not as aggressive as other invasive species.
Happy Foraging!
Disclaimer: Do not consume any wild plant unless you are 100% sure of its identification. Be sure you are picking from non-polluted areas, away from roads, and where no pesticides or other contaminants may have been used. Consult your doctor before consuming wild plants.
shape. In the second year, the plant will grow a long stalk that can reach up to one metre in height, and will have small white flowers with four petals. The leaves are dark green and will smell strongly of garlic when you crush them.
Disclaimer: Do not consume any wild plant unless you are 100% sure of its identification. Be sure you are picking from non-polluted areas, away from roads, and where no pesticides or other contaminants may have been used. Consult your doctor before consuming wild plants.
2. What are Invasive Species? This concept may be new to you, but it already dominates your environment. Invasive species are defined by the Government of Canada as “harmful alien species whose introduction or spread threatens the environment, the economy, or society, including human health”. This introduction may be on purpose, such as bringing in an ornamental plant, or by accident, such as through ballast water.  My hope is to increase knowledge and awareness about invasive species, as well as share best management practices. In the photo from the upper left going clockwise is Dog-Strangling Vine, Phragmites, Japanese Knotweed, and Garlic Mustard. Do you recognize any of them? To learn more about Invasive Species in Ontario, check this out: www.invadingspecies.com Disclaimer: Do not consume any wild plant unless you are 100% sure of its identification. Be sure you are picking from non-polluted areas, away from roads, and where no pesticides or other contaminants may have been used. Consult your doctor before consuming wild plants.
I started foraging a few years ago. It started with seeking out elusive and expensive things like morels and ramps, but over time, I came to the realization that I didn't have to travel deep into the woods. I could forage in my own yard. It's always an adventure, and there is something so human about foraging and eating the food you have picked yourself. So many of us are disconnected from the products we buy, consuming things that come from halfway across the world, harvested by people we will never meet...makes you think.
Foraging can be fun, educational, and sustainable if done properly. Here are some basic rules before you start.
Discussing how to protect the environment and which level of government to hold accountable is a complicated thing. This article attempts to clarify the jurisdictional mess of environmental policy in Canada.
within their boarders.[i] In some cases, cooperation with Indigenous governments is required under Section 35 of the Constitution Act (1982), which protects existing Aboriginal and treaty rights.[ii] By law, federal and provincial governments are required to consult with Indigenous communities if their rights are potentially affected by decisions (referred to as ‘the duty of consult’). Some Indigenous groups have negotiated (in treaties) the right to self-government and the power to make laws. Therefore, environmental responsibilities of one government may also be shared with Indigenous governments on a regional level. Shared Responsibilities However, the protection of the environment isn’t actually mentioned in the Constitution. Instead, jurisdiction over environmental matters is understood as a shared responsibility between federal and provincial/territorial governments, which can really complicate efforts to protect and restore wildlife across the country. An example is the protection of migratory birds. The federal government has signed on to international agreements for their protection by establishing sanctuaries along migratory paths. However, it is up to the provinces to enact regulations on the hunting of those birds within their boarders. The federal government is also responsible for fish and inland waters but provinces that own public lands with water features (e.g. lakes, rivers, bogs, etc.) have jurisdiction over the wildlife and habitats within those lands. In essence, the federal government may have jurisdiction over broad, trans-boundary issues, but the provinces can enact laws in these areas if they are of a ‘local matter’.
natural resources and wildlife habitat may be viewed as competing with regional goals. Successful efforts to protect Canada’s environment are deeply rooted in a willing and cooperative effort among all governments.
Endnotes [i] 56% of publicly owned lands across Canada are owned by the provinces/territories. The federal government owns about 44% - 11% of which is located outside the three territories - demonstrating how small the federal government’s jurisdiction is over land conservation across the country. [ii] ‘Existing’ refers to those rights that were not formally erased by colonial governments. |
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