CPAWS-Ottawa Valley is a strong believer that being outside in nature is a necessary component of healthy communities and therefore, we work to offer programming that connects children, youth, and adults to nature. As a conservation organization, we believe that if we can inspire the people of today to appreciate nature, it will encourage the people of tomorrow to continue protecting it and all that is within it.
The Canadian Wilderness Stewardship Program (CWSP) is an educational experience designed to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards in Canada by connecting youth to nature and their local communities.
A CPAWS-led wilderness expedition to a regional area in need of protection;
A participant-led, volunteer community service project focused on conservation or education; and
A summit where participants share knowledge and develop skills in civic engagement, conservation, leadership, and advocacy.
The expeditions are led by CPAWS chapter staff and knowledgeable guiding companies, and include opportunities for hiking, paddling, and/or general outdoor exploration in the participant’s local region. CPAWS’ staff also provide guidance to participants in developing their community service projects. The program culminates in a summit, where participants have the opportunity to meet one another, share their projects, and develop skills to further their conservation work.
Program Goals
To enable participants to experience the benefits of performing meaningful volunteer community service in their regions
To build participants’ confidence, leadership ability, and critical thinking skills
To empower participants to become ambassadors for regional wild spaces within their communities and create a culture of conservation engagement
Eligibility Requirements
Must be between 18-30 years old
Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or granted refugee status in Canada
Must reside in your program region of interest
Must be able to commit 120 hours to the program
Must demonstrate an interest in wilderness conservation
Must have access to a computer and an internet connection
Interested in joining the Stewardship Program? Apply for the 2022-2023 Season!
We are currently recruiting for the 2021-2022 season. Applications are being reviewed and accepted on a rolling basis – so make sure to apply early!
*Please note that all program activities for the 2022-2023 season are subject to COVID-19 restrictions. In the event that certain activities must be cancelled, they will be replaced and/or supplemented with virtual or other alternatives.
The Canadian Wilderness Stewardship Program is funded by the Government of Canada under the Canada Service Corps program. For more information about the Canada Service Corps, visit their website.
Join us for a fascinating nature walk in a park near you! Our hikes are open to groups of adults as well as children. Our experienced guides will tailor the hike to suit your group’s needs and abilities.
Programs are available year-round. During the winter months, we offer snowshoe excursions (rentals not included) or winter hiking. Some of our favourite places to visit include Gatineau Park, Mer Bleue, and Stony Swamp.
Here at CPAWS Ottawa Valley, we do our best to make sure our programs are available and accessible to everyone and therefore our programs are free. However, it is the responsibility of the group to arrange and cover any costs associated with transportation. We accept groups between 10-20 participants.
Please note, due to COVID-19 and the resulting public health restrictions, we are currently not accepting bookings. Please email our Education Director to be placed on our waiting list for when hikes resume.
This project has been implemented by CPAWS Ottawa Valley with the financial support of Mountain Equipment Coop and Ottawa Community Foundation. We would also like to thank the Ministry of Ontario for funding our Outdoor Multicultural and Youth programs.
General Education Funding:
Donations:
Since we are a non-profit organization, we rely heavily on grants and donations to continue our work, including the work to run our Education Program. Donations may be given through cash, cheque or credit card, and a tax receipt will be issued for donations of $25.00 or greater.
To donate online today, please click here. If you would like your donation to go specifically to CPAWS Ottawa Valley’s Education Program, please make note of that at the time of donation.
