For several years, the Youth Connect program has been connecting youth living in Europe with newly assigned OUTCAN youth. The goal of this program is to make youth feel welcome in their new community, develop a supportive relationship with their peers and expand their knowledge of life in Europe. This program is now expanding as not only will youth still have the opportunity to participate, but it is now open to CAF members of all ages, starting at 10 years old. So whether you are a child, a teenager or an adult, the OUTCAN Connect program will put you in touch with a pen pal of your own age!
The Benefits
The OUTCAN Connect program is there to help you prepare mentally before your assignment in Europe. Since an OUTCAN assignment can be extremely stressful and destabilizing, having a pen pal who is already there can be a huge source of comfort. It's a great opportunity to be able to ask all the questions that are bothering you to someone who knows the reality of life in Europe better than anyone. Cassie Taylor, a former participant in the program says,
"It was very helpful because the person I was corresponding with got to know someone before I arrived. A friendship started right away.‘’
In addition, communicating your fears and anxieties with someone you trust allows you to let go of your fears and embark on your move overseas with much more positivity and confidence.
Not only does the OUTCAN Connect program allow you to get constant support from a CAF member, it can also be a great opportunity for those already living in Europe to develop strong, long-term friendships. Some people keep their friendships until they return to Canada. Gabriel White, a correspondent of the program testifies:
"I enjoyed talking to the people who came to Germany, I was introduced to a girl my age who is my best friend now! I would do it again without any hesitation, I participated for 3 years and it was really fun.’’
How does it work?
The beauty of this program is that it's as simple as can be. All you have to do is complete the OUTCAN form and email it to: mfse.informationresourceprograms@cfmws.com. This is where you tell us if you are participating in the program as a newcomer or as someone who is already living in Europe and wants to share their OUTCAN experience. We will find a partner for you that matches your interests and needs and you will be put in touch with a member of MFS(E). Feel free to write to each other as often as you like and share about life in Europe in a safe and friendly environment.
So what are you waiting for? Sign up now, a great OUTCAN connection awaits you!