In CISV, peace education and training are not limited to our international holiday programs. A lot of local and national activities also take place. They are entirely geared to our principles.
Junior Branch
The very heart and soul of CISV, Junior Branch comprises young local CISVers between the ages of 11 – 25, who develop intercultural and leadership skills through educational and social activities. Juniors manage their own activities and take an active role in the administrative responsibilities of their chapters. Operating through a network at the national and international level, Juniors organize their own programs on a wide variety of themes, such as social justice and the environment. Junior Branch activities are aimed at building community, developing skills, and promoting peace through education.
MiniCamp – 10 – 17 years
Are you between 10 and 17 years old? MiniCamps are designed to be similar to a three-day experience at a CISV’s Village or Step-Up program. This approach gives young people, who might be interesting in applying for one of CISV’s international programs, a glimpse into what the larger international experience might be like. Participants will take part in a variety of educational, cultural, and fun activities that have been planned by the youth from the chapters Junior Branch. The activities will revolve around a common theme and CISV’s peace education content areas, which are: diversity, human rights, conflict and resolution, and sustainable development.
Any young person who is interested in building local friendships in a fun and caring environment should attend. The camps are especially important for those wishing to apply for one of CISV’s international programs as they help young people develop an understanding of CISV and its culture.
In line with CISV’s “learning by doing” approach, activities at a Mini-Camp are planned and lead by the youth of various ages from the chapters Junior Branch (JB). The JB organizes several meetings leading up to the camp where interested members contribute, develop and organize the camp activities. To support the youth and to ensure that appropriate safety and risk management measures are met trained adult leaders will guide the camp activities and ensure overall accountability of the program.
Mosaic – All ages
Mosaic is CISV’s local community-based programme for participants of all ages. Mosaic can be anything from a one-off event to a year-long project.
Mosaic projects are planned and delivered by our Chapters, using CISV’s educational approach, and each one responds to local needs and interests in a meaningful way. Most projects are designed and run in cooperation with partner organizations to further the benefit to the local community.
Being part of a Mosaic project is a real-life learning experience that will have a lasting impact and, if you’re new to CISV, it’s a great way to get involved!
Nat Camp – 11 – 17 years
Each summer, during the month of August, one of CISV Canada’s chapters host the Junior Branch National Camp. National Camp is a six-day program that is open to youth from 10 – 17 years of age. Participants are encouraged to take an active leadership role within the camp. Following some experiential training in planning, facilitation, and evaluation, all participants have the opportunity to plan and execute educational activities with small planning groups. National Camp is a dynamic, fun, learning experience for younger and older youth.