Youth between the ages of 12 and 18 go through a critical period of transition from adolescence to adulthood. Youth from military families are no different, and they may face additional stress because of frequent re-locations and family members' deployments.

To respond to these challenges, Canadian Forces (CF) communities around the world have used their enthusiasm, creativity and perseverance to produce fun, engaging and necessary services for youth. The Canadian Forces National Youth Model  was created to build on these strengths, and significantly enhance the impact and scope of youth-centred programs and services in CF communities.

The Youth Model is a framework on which Canadian/Military Family Resource Centres, Personnel Support Programs, and other youth service providers may collaboratively plan, implement and evaluate youth programs. The Youth Model ensures that youth from CF families have unrestricted access to quality, responsive and meaningful programs and services wherever their families are posted.

Youth Model programs exist in CF communities around the world, and they’re always looking for input from local teens on their Youth Advisory Committees. Committee members represent the youth in their communities, and participate in the planning and execution of teen activities, programs and special events. Youth Advisory Committees give teens the opportunity to have their say, become leaders and make a difference in their communities.