There are some minimal fees associated with participating in a YMCA Youth Exchanges Canada program. If you have any concerns about these fees or would like further information about accommodating your group’s needs, speak with your YMCA representative.

• Hosting-related expenses such as local transportation and activity costs (conditional upon the agreement of both organizers)
• A $40 registration fee for each participant and leader

• The travel costs of all eligible participants and organizers (one organizer for each group of 10 youth or fewer, two organizers for 11–20 youth, and three organizers for 21–30 youth), including airport improvement taxes
• Accommodation and meal expenses if the group must stop overnight on its way to the host community
• The cost of special measures that may be required

Special Measures Funding

If alternative housing is required some families may have difficulties hosting a youth in their home. If there are circumstances that would prevent only a few participants from being hosted in a home, arrangements can be made for billets with another family. The group could also stay in alternative accommodations such as dormitories.

Youth with disabilities may have special needs and should be consulted to prepare a detailed list of needs.  Determine whether you will need modified vehicles, an accessible home and special equipment. Such needs may be more easily accommodated in urban centres. Additional funding required for attendants or for other measures related to the needs of youth with disabilities will be considered

Your YMCA representative will help you find the best way to accommodate your group's needs.  Where local community resources are not available, you may ask for additional support.  Your YMCA representative will evaluate the needs and resources on a case-by-case basis.

The Government of Canada, through Exchanges Canada a part of the Department of Canadian Heritage, provides financial assistance for this program. Exchanges Canada also offers information on exchange activities available to young Canadians through the 1 800 O-CANADA information line (1 800 622-6232, TDD/TTY 1 800 465-7735) or visit http://www.exchanges.gc.ca/. You can also reach Exchanges Canada at by mail at Exchanges Canada, 12 York Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 5S6.