TORONTO, ON – October 13, 2026 – Over the last year, the non-profit organization Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests (LEAF) has been busy with its Young Urban Forest Leaders (YUFL) program, which was supported by a $42,000 Seed grant awarded in 2026 by the provincial government's Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).
“Young people are essential to building greener, healthier communities, and programs like Young Urban Forest Leaders give them the tools and experience to make a real difference,” said Stephanie Smyth, MPP for Toronto-St. Paul’s. “I’m pleased to see this Ontario Trillium Foundation grant helping LEAF bring Indigenous and Western knowledge systems together to strengthen the program and deepen young people’s connection to the land. Investing in youth leadership and learning from Indigenous knowledge are important steps toward more sustainable, inclusive communities.”
YUFL is a free, four-month training and mentorship program for Toronto residents aged 18 to 29. Participants develop skills in urban forestry and community engagement through hands-on learning, mentorship and opportunities to lead community projects. Since 2015, more than 200 youth have benefited from the program. The OTF grant has supported the redesign of the program's curriculum through a Two-Eyed Seeing lens, bringing together Indigenous and Western knowledge systems.
The redesigned curriculum will create a more inclusive and holistic learning experience for youth while deepening participants' understanding of Indigenous perspectives and their connection to the land. The work also strengthens relationships and supports LEAF's ongoing efforts toward reconciliation.
“YUFL helps young people build the knowledge, skills and confidence to become leaders in their communities,” said Janet McKay, Executive Director, LEAF. “Reshaping our curriculum will create a more inclusive learning experience for young people and help build a stronger future for the program.”
LEAF (Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the protection and improvement of urban forests. We envision vibrant communities where everyone benefits from a healthy urban forest. For over 30 years, we have been connecting people with trees through education, planting and stewardship.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. In 2025-26, OTF invested nearly $107M into 746 community projects. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
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Media Contact:
Justin Lewis, Marketing & Communications Lead
LEAF
437-290-7841