ABOUT JRP
Our mission? Youth Activism.
At Junior Peacemakers, we define global citizenship as the idea that one’s responsibilities and rights transcend geographical and political borders and are derived from membership to "humanity". In practice, this means that regardless of who we are and where we are from, we are all equally entitled to our human rights which comes with the responsibility of respecting and upholding the rights of others and of our planet. By participating in youth activism, defined as community-organizing for positive social change, children, teenagers and young adults can embrace their global citizenship to help improve their communities.
Education
We believe that by providing global citizenship education, we can inspire children to adopt behaviors and learn the skills that will enable them to become responsible decision makers in order “to live in harmony with oneself, with others, and with the natural environment” (The United Nations).
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Our primary focus is on encouraging elementary and middle school students to make a difference in their community by inspiring a sense of global awareness through fun, interactive activities and discussions. Setting an example for the children we work with, we also lead initiatives with the goal of benefiting the well-being of our communities.
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How is Junior Peacemakers funded?Jr. Peacemakers is part of a larger organization named IRSAM, International Relations Students’ Association of McGill University. IRSAM boasts a membership of 300 + students who are passionate about leadership and being part of the change. Through this organization and the events it organizes, it can give back to the program to ensure it remains without cost.
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How can I enroll my class in Junior Peacemakers?We're excited to work with you! Send an email to jr.peacemakers@irsam.ca and we will get back to you with more details promptly.
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When can I count on hearing back from you about volunteers for the semester?Our volunteer recruitment cycle begins in September! This sets us up to introduce your volunteers to you at least 2-3 weeks before the program is to begin.
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What is the cost of the program?One of the core values Junior Peacemakers champions is accessibility. Naturally, the program is free of charge. Because we are a NGO, all the hours and work that is put in by our coordinators and volunteers is on their own accord - showcasing the passion they bring to this cause. Additionally, all the material used during the activities is provided by the program!
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I want to volunteer, will I receive any training?Yes! Our training session equips you with the context to teach our curriculum. You will not only learn more behind the intent of our content, but will also be taken through scenarios with other volunteers you could be paired with!
Listen to our Community
"My first experience with Junior Peacemakers, during my second year, was absolutely amazing and inspired me to return ever since. I was astounded by just how interesting — and interested — these students are, which makes every session a completely new and fun experience. I remember a discussion on food and resource access led to ideas from the students about animal rights and communism — I don’t think I could even spell communism when I was that age, let alone apply it in detail!"
Lilla Adams, Volunteer
Elizabeth Franceschini, Volunteer
“When I participated in the Junior Peacemakers program during my first year at McGill, I came to realize how opinionated and observing children can be about the world around them. The Junior Peacemakers program is a wonderful outlet for children to express their stances on several global issues, giving them a voice and empowering their sense of being. I am glad to be apart of this mission!”
Hanaya Merlet,
Previous Head of Academics
Volunteering for JRP has been such a rewarding experience. Youth activism is important because our communities, both local and global, only get better when people care about them! It's important that young people know how to speak their mind on topics they care about in order to make the world a kinder and brighter place.