One of the unique aspects of SEDI is the work we do with youth.   Although we do not serve as a direct delivery agent with individuals, we operate in over 100 communities across Canada working with some of the best youth-serving organizations and facilitators.   SEDI's youth work has been manifested on the ground with some seriously innovative, accessible, and exciting workshops.   All of our youth programs are designed to teach youth the necessary skills needed to take greater control of their finances such as understanding the basics of banking, consumerism, credit, debt, budgeting, saving, and investing.   Better yet, we have especially designed our programs to be dynamic, interesting, and useful.  

The SEDI youth series includes toolkits with workshops and lessons on finance management.   We work to strengthen community financial programs, promote research, and community consultations and forums.   Finally we call on a national network of organizations that directly serve youth with barriers.  

The following is a list of our youth series programs.   If any workshop appeals to you please contact Casey Cosgrove at ccosgrove@sedi.org and let him know the workshop that interests you.   We'll let you know about the closest community organization near you that offers our programs.

Generation E

Explore your entrepreneurial potential, and find out if entrepreneurship as a career option may be the route you want to take!

This is a one-day session that allows participants to think creatively to better understand their connection to the world of entrepreneurship and self-employment.   There is no shortage of idea generation in this workshop.   A very fun, quick paced, activity-based day.   Participants usually leave Generation E with a confidence that they possess the ability to generate as many ideas as the next person.   Generation E has been delivered to about 5000 young people across Canada.   There is a video that accompanies this session.

The Changing World of Work

Learn about work trends and where opportunities for employment will be in the future.

This half-day session was designed to allow young people to better understand the changes that are taking place in the labour market, the changes in approach to work, the skills necessary to survive and prosper in the new economy, and more.   This session is not intended to be too heavy on statistics and information, but is an opportunity to plant a seed of awareness regarding these important issues.   A video also accompanies this activity-based session.

Dollars and Sense

Learn the basics of how to mange your finances (even if they are minimal) and begin to plan for your financial future.

This half-day session is an opportunity to touch on financial issues like debt, credits, assets, savings, budgeting, and more.   This session is intended to provide a basic look at how we view and relate to money, how we manage our finances, and strategies to improve our approach to this area.   We have created a non-threatening, short, activity-based approach to better understanding the gray issues around money.

E-Thinker!

Understand the benefits of being an “entrepreneurial thinker”, not just as a career but in everyday life.  

This fast-paced, practical, and fun exercise is specifically designed for in-school secondary school students.   E-Thinker! consists of videos, interactive group work and creative thinking exercises designed for youth who could benefit from learning in a variety of methods and teaching styles.

E-Factor

Find out more about the relationship between youth and employers in your own community – what the expectations are and the many myths and communication gaps that exist.

This video delves into the many questions that young people have about entering the work force.   Hear from other young people who express their advice and feelings on getting along with the boss, how to retain individuality in the work field, and tips on how to approach your job on a day-to-day basis.   Also, learn from employers about skills they look for from their employees.   

Although we don't deliver directly to youth, but we are always testing new ideas in our field.   If you think of any new ideas that are worth exploring then please feel free to contact us.