Our Organization

YouthCO was founded in 1994 by a group of young people. Our mission is to reduce the impact of HIV and Hep C stigma on youth in British Columbia. 

We have five English language values, and a Squamish language value, that guide our work:

• Anti-oppressive
• Cháchsaý, a Squamish word that refers to sharing resources within communities
• Inclusive
• Innovative
• Sex-positive
• Youth-Driven

Alongside these values, we are committed to four approaches in our work:

• Shared Leadership
• Peer Education & Support
• Harm Reduction
• Community Engagement

All of our work is connected to our mission, informed by our six values and four approaches, and connected to our shared leadership plan. We are always looking to grow in the ways we integrate these values and approaches into our work culture, programs, and participant experience.

To learn more about YouthCO's history, watch this video produced as part of AIDS Vancouver 30th anniversary!