The Buddy Up Program matches Black youth in care (YIC) with other Black youth from Ottawa of the same age, gender, and with similar interest. Youth will connect online once a week and engage in games, sports, and mutual topics of interest. The goal is to create a bond and friendship with Black youth in care and other Black youth in the community. Black youth who sign up to be a ‘Buddy’ will gain valuable experience and accumulate volunteer hours for high school graduation.

Online meetings will take place in the company of the program coordinator who will be present (though not interacting between the youth).

The Buddy Up program focuses on making the volunteer experience a rewarding and useful one for youth volunteers, as well as providing useful help and support to Black youth in care (YIC).