Katimavik’s Board of Directors completed their annual meetings in Toronto on December 7-8, 2019.

Since 1977 Katimavik has led one of Canada’s most successful and life-changing youth empowerment programs.

The gathering served as a chance for Katimavik Board members and newly-appointed Chief Executive Officer John-Frederick Cameron to chart the future of the organization. The sessions were focused on further integrating Truth and Reconciliation into the curriculum, organizational governance, and the creation of a strategic plan. Katimavik staff and alumni were present and provided feedback and perspective on the daily operations of this storied national institution. 

At the meetings, Katimavik learned from its Indigenous Advisory Circle on how to further evolve the program.

“Our dialogue with the Circle has given us an opportunity to reflect and work toward strategies to bring our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation into the core of all our work,” Emma Fineblit, Board Co-Chair, said.

“That dialogue and feedback from the Circle will enable us to further build content that educates and supports our participants.”

Chief Executive Officer John-Frederick Cameron is optimistic about the direction of Katimavik.

“Having Board and Advisory Circle members, along with Katimavik staff, together in one place in vigorous dialogue really allowed us to learn from one another and further evolve the framework for the National Experience program as well as the organization,” Cameron said.  “Katimavik is poised to play an even greater role in the empowerment of a new generation of young Canadians as the genius of our founder Jacques Hebert lives on and evolves,” he said.

In January 2020, Katimavik will again be sending 66 youths to communities across Canada to engage in meaningful community volunteerism and education.