Youth Tenant Advisory Committee
The Youth Tenant Advisory Committee (YTAC) serves as a platform for young Toronto Community Housing (TCHC) tenants to engage, contribute lived expertise and influence decisions that shape the present and future of youth within TCHC communities.
Mandate
The mandate of the Youth Tenant Advisory Committee is to bring youth voices and ideas to the table, specifically to:
- Inform TCHC's youth strategy and other relevant initiatives from a youth perspective.
- Help co-create more inclusive spaces for youth voices.
To learn more about the committee's mandate, see the Youth Tenant Advisory Committee terms of reference (PDF).
Key functions
Build leadership skills among youth.
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Members engage in learning that builds their leadership, governance, and advocacy skills, with opportunities to grow into visionary community leaders who exceed even their own expectations.
Share youth insights and give advice to decision-makers.
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YTAC members and collaborators draw on their lived experiences and peer insights, and provide strategic, evidence-based advice to TCHC’s Board of Directors and senior leadership, making sure the Youth Strategy reflects the realities and aspirations of youth across the city.
Membership
Composition: Up to 12 youth, aged 14 to 29, living in TCHC communities. The eligibility roster will be maintained to fill vacancies.
Selection: Members will be selected annually through a transparent, inclusive application process that will include an interview. It will recognize passion, potential, and diverse lived experiences.
Term: Two-year commitment, renewable based on continued engagement, interest, and age.
Support: Members will receive orientation, ongoing support, a small honorarium and other incentives to encourage participation.
Roles and responsibilities
YTAC members will:
- Participate in quarterly meetings, skill-building sessions, and strategy development activities.
- Engage dialogue with peers, TCHC staff, and external experts (as required).
- Provide insights and recommendations grounded in personal and collective experiences.
- Act as youth ambassadors within and beyond TCHC communities.
Staff will:
- Provide coordination, facilitation, and mentorship support.
- Offer meaningful opportunities for youth to shape policy and strategy.
- Create spaces for learning and development through workshops, guest speakers, and reflection.
- Make sure youth input is reflected in tangible outcomes, including the final Youth Strategy.
Eligibility
All TCHC tenants aged 14 to 29. Fill out the application form below to get involved.
