Are you looking for a unique and meaningful way to spend your summer? Northern Youth Abroad (NYA) is searching for compassionate families across Canada to host youth from Nunavut and the Northwest Territories from June 21 to July 22, 2025. By becoming a Host Family, you’ll play an essential role in supporting young participants as they embark on this transformative journey.
What is Northern Youth Abroad?
NYA is a program that provides youth aged 15 to 20 from Nunavut and the Northwest Territories with an opportunity to gain work experience, develop life skills, and explore Canada beyond their home communities. Each year, a select group of youth—chosen from a competitive pool of applicants—travel to host communities to take part in this life-changing initiative. Participants complete assignments that encourage personal growth, leadership development, and community involvement before they travel.
Why Become a Host Family?
By opening your home to an NYA participant, you’re doing more than just providing a place to stay—you’re giving a young person an opportunity to grow, learn, and develop skills for the future. Here are some great reasons to become a host:
- Have an unforgettable summer
- Learn about Northern Canada and its cultures
- Support youth as they expand their horizons
- Make a lasting impact on a young person’s life
- Gain a fresh perspective on your own community
- Join a nationwide network of NYA volunteers and supporters
- Have fun and build lifelong connections!
Who Can Host?
Host Families come from all backgrounds and family types. Whether you’re a single individual, a couple with kids, a retired couple, or part of the LGBTQ2S+ community, you’re welcome to apply! The main requirements include:
- A willingness to welcome and support two participants in your home
- Providing each participant with their own bed (they may share a room)
- Living in a community that is not too rural nor too overwhelming
- Spending time with the participants on weeknights and weekends
- Completing a Criminal Record Check (including Vulnerable Sector Screening) for all household members 18+
When Would You Be Hosting?
Host Families will welcome participants for five weeks, from mid-June to mid-July 2025. During this time, the youth will engage in work placements, community activities, and personal development experiences, all while being supported by their host families.
How to Apply
Becoming a Host Family is a rewarding experience that can create lifelong memories for both hosts and participants. If you’re ready to open your home and heart to a young person from Northern Canada, apply today! Visit https://nya.ca/host/ to learn more and submit your application.
Make this summer one to remember—help shape a young person’s future while gaining a meaningful cultural exchange experience!
PHOTO: The Lincoln Pelham Public Library had a wonderful volunteer, David, from Grise Fiord help out at the library a few summers ago.
