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.

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.

LATEST NEWS & EVENTS AT YER

GOAL # 1: BUILDING HEALTHY COMMUNITY RELATIONSHIPS

GOAL # 1: BUILDING HEALTHY COMMUNITY RELATIONSHIPS

Cooperation, Support and Compassion; Positive Role Models and Mentoring; Increased Community Capacity and Caring   “I appreciate what you are doing for the young people in this community because it bridges the gap between the elder generation and it passes a...

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GOAL # 2: GAINING VALUED WORK EXPERIENCE

GOAL # 2: GAINING VALUED WORK EXPERIENCE

Data Collection Methods; Working with Tools; Worksite Safety; Job Variety; Good Work Ethics   “But it was not all fun and games counting fish, safety always comes first on the river; the strong current and deep water posed a hazard and reminded me to always be...

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GOAL # 3: IMPROVING ECOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE

GOAL # 3: IMPROVING ECOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE

Ecosystem Cycles and Interconnections; Identification Techniques for Plants, Animals and Fish; Understanding Environmental Impacts   “We all live in a watershed; a watershed is a river surrounded by mountains; the rain falls from the mountains and drains into the...

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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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