Why was the A4YC conference created?

Frontline workers were repeatedly told by youth that the child welfare system was not meeting their needs. They knew the system could do better and the youth were telling them how to do it. A4YC was the platform to challenge conventional ways of supporting high-risk youth and share ideas about how to serve them better.

Who started the A4YC Conference?

A4YC was initiated in 2011 by three frontline workers who were passionate about working with high-risk youth and wanted to change the way professionals supported this population.

When was the first A4YC conference?

The first conference was in 2014 and at that time, was called the High-Risk Youth Conference. The conference sold out with 400 people in attendance. In 2018, the committee chose to change the conference name to the Allies 4 Youth Conference.

Who is on the steering committee of the conference now?

The 2025 steering committee is made up of 18 professionals who work directly with youth in Edmonton. Out of the 18 steering committee members, 5 have been involved since the original conference in 2014. Everyone on the committee volunteers their time because they see the value and positive influence this conference has.

Is lunch included at the pre-trainings?

Lunch is not included for these additional trainings, Please bring a snack/lunch or you can go to the WEM food court if needed!

Can I enroll in both of these pre-trainings?

Unfortunately not.

The Peacemaking Circle Training with Mandy Halabi is a two-day training and requires attendees to be present on both May 10th and 11th.

The Making Connection Training with Heather Peddle and Peter Smyth will occur simultaneously on May 11th.

Where are the pre-trainings located?

The Peacemaking Circle Training presented by Mandy Halabi is located at the Fantasyland on May 10th from 9:00am-4:30pm.

Making the Connection: Engaging and Working with Troubled Youth presented by Heather Peddle & Peter Smyth takes place at Kickstand in West Edmonton Mall on May 11th from 9:00am-4:00pm.

Are the pre-trainings on May 10 and 11 included in my conference ticket?

If you choose to enroll in the pre-training it will be an additional fee.

We are thrilled to offer these additional trainings at a discounted price, specifically for the Allies 4 Youth Connections Conference attendees!

Thank you!