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Mentoring Program for Children
and Youth in North Vancouver

KidStart offers one-on-one mentoring in North Vancouver, supporting both kids aged 6-12 and youth aged 13-18, as they navigate difficult life situations.

For kids, it could mean they are struggling to make friends, dealing with family instability, or facing challenges in school. For youth, this could include facing family instability, living under youth agreements, interactions with the justice system and other challenges.

With a caring adult in their corner, these kids and teens are more likely to build confidence, bounce back from setbacks, and make positive choices. If you’ve got time and a big heart, you could be that someone who makes all the difference. Contact us today for more information!

Ready to become a mentor?

What We Do

What if your time and care could change someone’s life? That’s exactly what KidStart mentors do. These dedicated adults are thoughtfully selected and trained to become a reliable, positive influence in a young person’s world. Through simple moments and genuine encouragement, they help youth grow stronger and more confident—one week at a time. Just a few hours a week can make all the difference.

North Vancouver Youth Mentorship Needs

Currently, in North Vancouver, 5 young people have been matched  a caring mentor to guide and support them. Unfortunately, they each waited as long as a year to be matched.

If you’re local and ready to make a difference, this is your moment. We need you!  We currently have 4 young people waiting to meet their mentor! Volunteer with KidStart and help empower a young person to reach their full potential.

Training Provided for North Vancouver Mentors

After being approved as a mentor, you’ll take part in thorough training that equips you with valuable skills, including first aid, trauma-informed approaches, and effective documentation practices. It’s an ideal opportunity for post-secondary students pursuing social services—offering both meaningful volunteer work and hands-on experience.

Support for Mentors in North Vancouver

Each mentor and mentee pairing gets support from a dedicated volunteer coordinator. In North Vancouver, mentors are supported by Charli and Khesro who both have vast experience supporting mentors.

Free Mentorship Program in North Vancouver

Our program is offered completely free to youth, thanks to support from the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD). At this time, young people can only be referred by an MCFD social worker or probation officer to join KidStart.

Mentoring Program for Children and Youth in
North Vancouver

Every young person should have someone who believes in them. KidStart brings that support to life by pairing young people with dedicated adult mentors from their community – especially for those who may not have consistent family support. To help make these connections count, we offer a $40 monthly activity stipend. From strolling along North Vancouver’s hiking trails to exploring local museums, these shared experiences help build trust, friendship, and self-esteem.
Indoor Activities
Outdoor Activities

Indoor Activities for
Child Youth Mentorship in North Vancouver

Depending on your mentee’s interests, the season, and the weather, you may prefer indoor activities. There are plenty of indoor activities in North Vancouver ranging from sports to enjoying the arts and everything in between.

Active & Sports-Based Indoor Activities for Children and Youth in North Vancouver

Canlan Sports

This multi-purpose recreation and entertainment facility offers drop-in public skating, pick-up hockey, and more. Whether you’re just learning how to skate or improving your skills, this is a great place for some indoor fun.

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Ron Andrews Community Recreation Centre

This rec centre features an indoor swimming pool, squash courts, and a fitness studio for when you and your mentee are looking for an active outing.

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Arts & Culture or Education-Based Indoor Activities for Children and Youth in North Vancouver

Museum & Archives of North Vancouver (MONOVA)

Visit the latest feature gallery exhibit and learn more about the people and history of North Vancouver through a combination of physical artifacts and digital content.

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Lonsdale Quay Market

Walk through this vibrant public market to see what local foods and goods are on offer as you enjoy fantastic views of downtown Vancouver.

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North Vancouver City Library

Public libraries are an incredible source of free educational and entertainment resources as well as a safe place for youth to spend time outside their living environment. Explore all the free resources available, including computers and internet access, videos, music, books, and special events.

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Outdoor Activities for
Children and Youth Mentorship in North Vancouver

North Vancouver is famous for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventure opportunities, and world-class hiking and mountain biking trails.

Active & Sports-Based Outdoor Activities for Children and Youth in North Vancouver

Hiking

North Vancouver is home to some of the Lower Mainland’s most famous hiking trails, including the challenging Grouse Grind, the Lynn Valley Loop, and the short but popular Quarry Rock hike. Build your fitness by choosing a trail appropriate for your mentee’s experience level and work your way up!

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Lynn Canyon Park & Suspension Bridge

Explore forest trails and cross the iconic suspension bridge that hangs 50 metres above the canyon. This is one of many beautiful trails available in North Vancouver, but this one also offers an Ecology Centre to learn more about the surroundings.

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See why both our volunteers and mentees love being a part of our mentoring program in North Vancouver!

A wonderful service. Great staff and enthusiastic volunteers.

– KidStart referrer

This program has helped me become more responsible for myself and helped me live independently.

– KidStart participant

Meet a Volunteer Mentor

“I find that the more time I spend with my mentee, the more she opens up and lets herself be a kid. In today’s day and age of having to grow up as soon as you can, it can be a breath of fresh air when kids can be kids.”

Loren has been a mentor with KidStart since January 2025. She is a university student who balances a part-time job with volunteering and spending time with family and friends. She wishes she had a strong role model when she was a kid to help her through some challenges she faced, including having parents who struggled with substance use. Her history and her fondness for spending time with kids led her to become a mentor.

Become a Mentor in North Vancouver and Change a Young Person’s Life!

If you’re 19 or older, living a stable lifestyle, and can dedicate just three hours a week, you could be the role model a young person in North Vancouver needs. KidStart mentors commit to one year of one-on-one time with a youth, helping them build confidence, resilience, and the tools to make empowering life choices—even when things get tough.
Apply Here!
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