Wendy Kotilla – Founder

Dec 15, 2021 | Staff

Wendy Kotilla created YER in 2004 based on her own youth experiences of being constantly outdoors, surrounded by the healing powers of nature. She has a Restoration of Natural Systems Diploma from University of Victoria, and Negotiation and Mediation Certificates from the Justice Institute of BC. Her experience includes thirty years in Ecological Restoration and Restorative Justice. She received the UVic 2019 Distinguished Alumni Award for the YER program.
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Wendy Kotilla – Founder

Wendy Kotilla created YER in 2004 based on her own youth experiences of being constantly outdoors, surrounded by the healing powers of nature. She has a Restoration of Natural Systems Diploma from University of Victoria, and Negotiation and Mediation Certificates from the Justice Institute of BC. Her experience includes thirty years in Ecological Restoration and Restorative Justice. She received the UVic 2019 Distinguished Alumni Award for the YER program.

Photo taken by Viable Options Photography.

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LATEST NEWS & EVENTS AT YER

Youth and Ecological Restoration Program helps vulnerable youth gain a sense of worth, belonging and place

Youth and Ecological Restoration Program helps vulnerable youth gain a sense of worth, belonging and place

Mar 26, 2018 |

Restoration of Natural Systems Program alumni, Wendy Kotilla, founded the Youth and Ecological Restoration Program (YER) in 2004 based on her own experiences of being surrounded by the healing powers of nature. The highly successful and unique program, located in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, provides vulnerable youth aged twelve to eighteen with one-on-one work experience through ecological restoration methods, Ecotherapy practices, and mentoring support.

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The YER vision is to engage youth in a wider circle of community relationships, in both the human and natural worlds. Involving them with meaningful work and caring adults supports them in building self esteem and has the ability to transform their lives. In YER, youth travel a journey together with their community and experience a better relationship with the people and place called home.

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