On May 23 and 24, 2026, BAPS Charities hosted its annual Youth Development Summit in Hamilton, ON and Toronto, ON, bringing together youth volunteers from across Southern Ontario for a weekend of leadership development, collaboration, and community building.
The summit welcomed 70 youth volunteers representing local centers spanning from Windsor, ON to Ottawa, ON. Participants gathered to reflect on recent developments within their communities, share experiences and best practices, and strengthen relationships with fellow volunteers from across the region.
Through collaborative discussions, interactive workshops, and focused brainstorming sessions, attendees explored opportunities to enhance local youth initiatives and expand their impact within their communities. These conversations encouraged participants to think creatively, develop practical solutions, and strengthen the leadership skills necessary to support future youth programming.
The summit also provided a valuable platform for volunteers to connect with one another, fostering a greater sense of unity and shared purpose. By exchanging ideas and learning from diverse experiences, participants gained new perspectives on community engagement, volunteerism, and personal leadership.
Beyond leadership development, the gathering reinforced the importance of teamwork, service, and building meaningful relationships, values that continue to guide BAPS Charities’ youth initiatives across Canada.
The Youth Development Summit reflects BAPS Charities’ ongoing commitment to empowering young people through leadership training, mentorship, and community service opportunities. Through initiatives such as its annual Walk/Run events supporting local causes and youth-focused development programs, BAPS Charities continues to invest in the growth of future leaders while strengthening communities across the country.
