The IEL project aims to strengthen resilience and promote civic and democratic engagement among young people aged 15 to 30 from underrepresented groups in the Quebec City region, particularly youth from ethnocultural minorities and newcomers, in order to contribute to building an inclusive Canada.
A cohort of approximately fifteen young people has the opportunity to engage in 15 innovative volunteer projects created by them and that meet community needs. Micro-grants, up to $5,000 per project, are made available to young people for project-related expenses. Young people who lead a project commit to volunteering. They also benefit from training, mentoring support, and guidance from the FJAQ in the creation and implementation of their project. The group of young people is thus encouraged to develop leadership skills and understand the importance of civic participation in the process of inclusion and building a just society.