The Native Youth Centre
Where Vision Becomes Reality
The Vision
Cheryl Robinson, CEO of the Urban Native Youth Association, shares:
“The Native Youth Centre reflects our vision as a centre of excellence—one that is filled with opportunities, pathways, and journeys for Indigenous youth.”
The new Native Youth Centre will span nearly a full city block, creating a purpose-built place for Indigenous youth to lead, learn, and thrive. It will bring together expanded program areas, culturally rooted spaces, staff offices, and community supports. Integrated within the plans are a licensed Child Care Centre, affordable Housing, and a partnership with a post-secondary institution to open even more doors to education and career pathways.
The Centre will take UNYA’s impact to an entirely new level—strengthening not just individual lives, but the whole urban Indigenous community.
The Vision Takes Shape
Transformational projects of this scale are never simple. Moving from vision to financial sustainability to breaking ground requires time, determination, and partnership.
Today, UNYA is in the strongest position in its history. With more than 36 years of proven impact and a reputation as a trusted leader in Indigenous youth services, UNYA has shown what is possible even within the limits of its current space. Now, imagine what can be achieved with a purpose-built Centre designed for growth.
We have moved forward. We are meeting with architects and setting plans for expanded program spaces and staff offices, incorporating Child Care, Housing, and a post-secondary institution to further optimize learning and education opportunities. A new purpose-built gym anchoring our Aboriginal Youth First (AYF) sports and recreation program will bring the community together for celebrations, ceremonies, craft fairs, marketplaces for emerging Indigenous artists, and many other gatherings. This will take UNYA’s community impact to a whole new level.
With trusted partners across industries and a growing circle of community support, the foundation is firmly laid. The Native Youth Centre is no longer just a plan—it is a project gaining real momentum and strength.
Be Part of the Vision
The Native Youth Centre is more than bricks and mortar—it is a promise to Indigenous youth that their voices, leadership, and futures matter. It is a place where culture and community come together, where opportunities open, and where the next generation of leaders will thrive.
Every gift, every partnership, and every show of support helps move this from vision to reality. Funding will be needed to close the gap between the work we have done, the resources that have been mobilized, and the next phase that will bring the Centre of youth excellence to life.
Together, we can create a space that honours the past, empowers the present, and builds a stronger future for generations to come.
Build the Future
The future of Indigenous youth leadership starts with the Native Youth Centre. Your gift will ensure that Indigenous youth have the space, resources, and opportunities they deserve.