Youth Programs (12 – 19)
Sturgeon County offers a variety of recreation programs throughout the year in summer, fall, winter and spring.
You can register and pay online for County programs. Your account keeps track of receipts, displays a calendar of your upcoming activities, and lets you know about unexpected schedule changes or cancellations.
How to Register
You will need an account to register for Sturgeon County Programs. If you are a new user, you’ll be asked to input names, addresses, phone numbers for the members of your family you’d like to register.
- Click “Family & Community Support Services”
- Choose Child and Youth or Wellness Programs
- Find your program, and then click “Register”
- If it is a paid program, you’ll then be directed to input your payment information
Youth Leadership
Youth Leadership is a group of teens aged 12 – 19, who promote a positive image of, and act as a voice for, youth in our community.
The Youth Leadership team makes a difference by volunteering in the community, planning activities for peers, and speaking up about issues. This group also takes part in social activities, retreats, increases your leadership skills, and helps you gain experience for resumes/scholarships.
We meet once a month, on Mondays from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., for a meeting at the Edmonton Garrison Military Family Resource Centre. Additionally, we meet approximately once a month for social/volunteer activities outside of regular meetings.
Why Join?
- Improve your leadership skills
- Gain experience for resumes and scholarships
- Volunteer at exciting events
- HAVE FUN

Questions?
Chantal Firmaniuk,
Family and Community Support Services
Call: 780-939-0607
Email: programs@sturgeoncounty.ca
Job Experience Training (JET) Program
Spend this summer gaining valuable leadership skills and work experience while leading children’s summer programming and day camps. Space is limited but all applicants will receive an opportunity for an interview.
Sturgeon County’s Job Experience Training program is for youth 12-17 years old. It is a volunteer program where youth will gain valuable leadership skills and work experience.
The role of a JET volunteer
JET volunteers help to lead Sturgeon County’s summer programs. Job duties include leading activities and games for children’s day camps, supervising day trips that include transportation, food, and admission to fun activities across the County and surrounding municipalities, and representing Sturgeon County at community events like County Bounty.
Where will I work?
Work locations will vary with programming running across Sturgeon County, including Cardiff, Riviere Qui Barre, Calahoo, Coronado and other communities.
Note: JET Volunteers must provide their own transportation to the initial program location. Most locations are not accessible by public transit.
Youth Emergency Services (YES) Academy
Sturgeon County is hosting its first Youth Emergency Services (YES) Academy (camp) from July 21 to 23, 2025.
Thirty youth (ages 14 to 17), will participate in this three-day, two-night experience. During the camp, participants will take part in hands-on activities and presentations that mirror the daily responsibilities of first responders.
The academy aims to foster youth engagement in the community, deepen their understanding of emergency services, and inspire those interested in pursuing careers in these fields.
Participants will eat, sleep, engage in physical training and gain firsthand insight into what it takes to attend an academy and build a career in emergency services.
Experts from the RCMP (including K-Division), Fire Services, Enforcement Services, Canadian Armed Forces, Emergency Medical Services and Corrections will lead daily sessions that will focus on introducing participants to emergency services information and skills, fostering teamwork and building confidence. This camp offers a balance of learning, physical activity, teamwork and personal development.
If you are interested in having your child attend this camp, please complete this application form. Applications will be accepted until 4:30 PM on Friday, May 16, 2025.
To participate, youth must be:
- A Sturgeon County resident;
- Between the ages of 14 and 17 (and turning 18 no sooner than July 24, 2025);
- Currently enrolled in school;
- Able to participate in moderate physical activities;
- Able to follow instructions, focus, and act responsibly;
- Willing to commit to attend the full program and actively participate;
- No medical conditions that would prevent safe participation; and,
- Have parent/guardian consent and signed waiver/agreements.
Participants will be selected based on:
- The above participation requirements being met;
- Submission of a completed application form, including waiver, agreements, and a reference/recommendation letter;
- Demonstrated interest in emergency services;
- Showcase of teamwork and leadership skills; and,
- Good disciplinary standing at school.
If you have questions about the academy or need a paper copy of the application form, please contact Jennifer Penner, Safe Communities Facilitator, at jpenner@sturgeoncounty.ca or 825-965-1426.
Presenters
Representatives from the RCMP, Municipal Enforcement, Fire Services, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Corrections, and the Canadian Armed Forces will introduce participants to their roles. They will engage students in hands-on activities (where applicable) to showcase key aspects of their positions, explain pathways into these careers, speak to resilience and physical and mental wellness, and answer any questions about specific agencies or departments.
RCMP – ERT (Emergency Response Team)
A specialist from the RCMP will give an exciting look into the Emergency Response Team (ERT), a highly specialized tactical unit that handles the most dangerous and high-risk situations, like armed standoffs, hostage rescues, and counter-terrorism operations. They’ll explain how ERT officers are called in when regular officers face significant danger, and they’ll give an inside look at the intense training and specialized gear, weapons, and tactics required for this role. Get ready to hear about the action-packed world of the ERT and how they keep communities safe in extreme situations!
RCMP – GIS (General Investigation Section)
A guest speaker will take you behind the scenes of the General Investigation Section(GIS). This specialized team tackles some of the toughest and most intense crimes. They’ll share how GIS investigates everything from serious crimes like homicides and assaults to fraud and organized crime, using high-tech tools like surveillance, forensic analysis, and intelligence gathering. The speaker will explain how the GIS team puts all their skills together to crack tough cases and catch criminals.
RCMP Police Dog Service (PDS)
A member of the RCMP will speak on the exciting world of the Police Dog Service unit of the RCMP and how these highly trained dogs assist in law enforcement. They will explain how police dogs and their handlers work together to track suspects, find missing people, detect drugs and explosives, and search crime scenes for evidence. The speaker will also highlight the intense training these dogs undergo and the strong bond they share with their handlers. This presentation will give an inside look at how these incredible K9 teams help keep communities safe.
RCMP INSET (Integrated National Security Enforcement Team)
A specialist from the RCMP will introduce the Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (INSET) and their crucial role in protecting Canada from national security threats. They will explain how this specialized unit focuses on counter-terrorism efforts, working in major cities across the country to identify and prevent potential threats. The speaker will also highlight how INSET collaborates with law enforcement agencies, intelligence services, and government departments to keep Canadians safe. This presentation will provide insight into the high-stakes world of national security and the teamwork required to protect the country.
RCMP Drug & Gang Enforcement Unit
A guest speaker will give an exciting look into the Drug & Gang Enforcement Unit and how they take down dangerous drug networks and gangs. They’ll explain how these officers track down criminals involved in selling and smuggling illegal drugs, working at local, national, and even international levels to stop the flow of drugs and keep communities safe. The speaker will also share how the unit gathers intelligence, teams up with other law enforcement agencies, and works to prevent gang-related crime. This is a chance to learn about the real-life action behind the fight against organized crime!
RCMP Forensic Identification (Forensics/IDENT)
An expert with the RCMP will take you inside the fascinating world of Forensic Identification and how they use science to solve crimes. They will explain how these highly trained specialists secure crime scenes, collect key evidence like fingerprints and DNA, and analyze everything from blood spatter to ballistics. The speaker will highlight how forensic experts link suspects to crimes through cutting-edge technology and meticulous investigation. From matching bullets to weapons to uncovering hidden clues, the Forensics/IDENT unit plays a critical role in cracking even the toughest cases and ensuring justice is served.
Municipal Enforcement & Animal Control:
Community Peace Officers (CPOs) – An Officer from Sturgeon County Enforcement Services will introduce the role of Community Peace Officers and how they contribute to public safety and community well-being. They will explain how CPOs enforce municipal and provincial laws, conduct traffic patrols, and educate drivers while also collaborating with police, fire services, and emergency responders on non-criminal matters. The speaker will highlight how CPOs engage with the community, build positive relationships, and promote awareness of local laws to create safer neighborhoods. This presentation will provide a deeper understanding of the important work CPOs do to support law enforcement and enhance public safety.
Animal Control Officers (ACOs) – Someone from Sturgeon County Animal Control will provide insight into the role of Animal Control Officers in protecting both animals and the public. They will discuss how ACOs enforce animal-related bylaws, investigate complaints about leash laws, pet licensing, and dangerous animals, and address issues like excessive barking. The speaker will also highlight how ACOs respond to incidents involving stray, lost, or aggressive animals—working to reunite pets with their owners while ensuring community safety.
Fire Services
A representative from Fire Services will discuss the essential role firefighters play in responding to emergencies, primarily by fighting fires, rescuing those trapped, and preventing further damage. Beyond firefighting, they’re trained for and respond to medical emergencies, hazardous material spills, vehicle accidents, and natural disasters like floods and storms. The speaker will also highlight their focus on prevention, which includes conducting safety inspections, educating the public on fire safety, and ensuring buildings comply with fire codes. Finally, the speaker will touch on their training and abilities in search and rescue operations, providing life-saving care in high-risk situations.
Peer Supportive/ Re-Integration
PEER SUPPORT/RE-INTEGRATION: Guest speakers will discuss the importance of Peer Support and Reintegration programs in high-stress professions like law enforcement, emergency services, and the military. They will explain how programs like Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and Peer Support help personnel cope with traumatic events and transition back into their roles. The speaker will also highlight the value of post-incident care, emphasizing the need for timely emotional and psychological support to prevent long-term mental health challenges. Additionally, they will explore the role of healthy nutrition and physical well-being in building resilience, managing stress, and supporting overall recovery and performance.
Corrections Officers
A representative of Federal Corrections Canada will provide insight into the role of Corrections Officers and their important work in maintaining safety and security within correctional institutions. They will discuss how these officers supervise inmates, prevent escapes, and handle high-risk situations while also supporting rehabilitation efforts. The speaker will highlight how Corrections Officers help guide offenders through work programs, education, and therapy to prepare them for reintegration into society. This presentation will offer a deeper understanding of the balance between discipline and rehabilitation in the correctional system.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
A member from Emergency Medical Services (EMS) will share what it’s like to be a first responder on the front lines of medical emergencies. They will discuss how EMS personnel respond to crises like car accidents, heart attacks, and serious injuries, providing life-saving care and quickly transporting patients to hospitals. The speaker will highlight the specialized training EMS responders receive in CPR, trauma response, and advanced medical procedures, as well as their close collaboration with fire and police services. Attendees will gain insight into the fast-paced, high-pressure world of EMS and the critical decisions that can mean the difference between life and death.
Canadian Armed Forces (CAF)
A guest speaker from the Canadian Armed Forces will explain the vital role they play in defending Canada’s independence, ensuring national security, and contributing to global peacekeeping efforts. The speaker will explain how the CAF, made up of the Royal Canadian Navy, Canadian Army, and Royal Canadian Air Force, protects Canada’s borders, responds to emergencies, and provides disaster relief. They will also discuss the CAF’s involvement in international peacekeeping missions, humanitarian efforts, and combat operations as part of global alliances like NATO, emphasizing Canada’s commitment to global peace and security.
Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)
The Youth Advisory Committee plays an important role in researching and providing input into policy proposals, programs, and services. The Committee works with County Administration to discuss matters important to youth and establish partnerships to ensure that different perspectives are reflected in the Committee’s initiatives.
Events
Sturgeon County hosts a variety of events including Council Meetings, Workshops, and more.
Community Events
Hosting an event in Sturgeon County? Add it to our Community Calendar!
Visit our event submission page for information on eligible events.
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Career Opportunities and Resources
- Government of Canada, Youth Job Bank
- Federal Student Work Experience Program
- Futurpreneur, funded by the Government of Canada
- Youth Employment Standards
- Youth Digital Gateway