This profile is one of fifteen stories examining youth involvement in community economic development (CED). The profiles have been produced as part of the Canadian CED Network's efforts to encourage effective practices in youth leadership and engagement to enhance the social and economic conditions of Canada's communities.

LifeCycles is a great example of a small NGO that is cultivating a passion for food and farming among young people, of spreading that affection for the rich soil of everything organic and home crafted. Established in 1994 their mission is "to cultivate awareness and action about growing food, educate widely about the impacts of organic food, health and urban sustainability, and CED in the Greater Victoria area". This non-governmental organization focuses on building community connections for youth through hands-on projects that contribute towards improving local food production. They have built up strong networks in the areas of food security, urban agriculture and CED. Their programs involve numerous local and international partners; their latest international partners are in Cuba.

To download the full document click here>>