Changing social environments, changing lives.
We are an evidence-based, community-led initiative currently working to make Calgary a place where all young people can thrive.
A research-backed, proven approach.
Planet Youth is a primary prevention model designed to act on the root causes that contribute to substance use and mental health challenges among young people. We are currently working in Calgary communities to create social environments that support resilience and well-being for young people, ensuring they start strong in life and reach their fullest potential.
Pioneered in Iceland
Based in Iceland, the Planet Youth model originally found success by dramatically reducing substance use rates in that country over a twenty-year period.
Based on social research
Rooted in decades of social and behavioural research, the Planet Youth model addresses the wider social factors preventing youth from living happy, healthy lives.
Global reach
After the model’s original success in Iceland, it has since been adapted worldwide, proving to be highly adaptable to the unique needs of local communities.
Where we’re supporting youth today.
Today, we’re supporting young people in four pilot communities and a city-wide Indigenous Parallel, collaborating with local community leaders to get young people the supports they need to thrive.
- Thorncliffe / Huntington Hills
- Saddle Ridge
- Forest Lawn
- Shawnessy
- Indigenous Parallel - City Wide
See what your community is up to.
Want to stay up to date on youth events and activities happening in your community? Check out our calendar of events for regular updates on what’s happening.
Led, guided & inspired by Indigenous voices.
To make our city a place where all youth can thrive, Planet Youth Calgary is supporting Indigenous young people in Treaty 7 by adapting the Planet Youth model for a local Indigenous context. The Indigenous Parallel is committed to working with Indigenous communities to honour the voices and experiences of Indigenous young people.
In partnerships we thrive.
From inception to implementation and results, our initiative is made possible by partnership. Because supporting the well-being and resilience of our city’s youth is a total community effort.
Our valued supporters.
Funding is what connects ideas to real positive change. Our sincerest thanks goes to the donors and investors who have made Planet Youth Calgary possible.
