Gaining Experience as a Young Person

If you are between the ages of 16 and 29, the Young Volunteers program gives you the opportunity to carry out a project that is important to you.

You’ll have access to expert help along with ongoing designed to foster your new skills that will help you integrate into the job market.

Eligibility

To take part in the program:

  • you must be between the ages of 16 and 29 and be having trouble getting a job;
  • you must devote at least 20 hours a week to your professional project;
  • you must not hold a job that requires you to work 20 hours or more a week;
  • you must not be enrolled in full-time studies.

How to apply

The steps to take to participate in the program depend on your situation and your project.

Submit your project at one of the Services Québec offices

You must first make an appointment with an agent at one of the Services Québec offices to discuss your project.

If the agent considers that the program meets your needs, you'll get the information, documents and assistance you need to develop your project.

Find a mentor with relevant experience

You need to partner with a mentor who has experience in the type of project you want to carry out. The mentor may be:

  • a private company;
  • a not-for-profit organization;
  • a self-employed person.

Present your project to an advisory committee

You must present your project to a local advisory committee. Your mentor will support you during this presentation. The committee will evaluate your project and recommend whether or not it should be accepted.

Duration

You'll need to work on the project for at least 20 hours a week, for a period of 9 to 52 weeks (one year).

Financial assistance

You may be entitled to:

  • an allowance;
  • a budget for project-related expenses;
  • reimbursement of certain expenses, such as childcare, transportation and training.

Request Information and Employment Assistance Services

There are different ways to request more information about employment programs, get assistance and check your eligibility.

Online

To submit a request online, sign in or log in to My Account — Employment Assistance — Social Assistance. This account allows you to submit your documents more easily and to receive government communications online.

Access My Account

Other ways to submit a request 

See the various ways of applying for information and employment assistance services. You can also visit an employment assistance organization near you.

Last update: January 27, 2026

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