Second Harvest National Youth Council

Join our 2026 Second Harvest National Youth Council!

In January 2026, Second Harvest will launch its 2nd annual National Youth Council, bringing together passionate young leaders, ages 18 to 25, from across Canada who are committed to tackling food waste. This is your chance to expand your network, access mentorship, and develop vital skills while sharing your unique perspectives on critical issues linking food waste and climate change. Through research, advocacy and awareness building projects, the council will work to engage youth audiences in conversations around food waste reduction.

As a member of the council, you’ll inspire action among your peers, through research, advocacy and awareness building projects and support Second Harvest in its goal of keeping good food out of landfills.

Who We Are:

Second Harvest is Canada’s largest food rescue organization and expert in perishable food recovery. We rescue surplus, unsold food from across the supply chain and redistribute it to not-for-profits across the country to feed communities. Demonstrating our values of community, environment, integrity, and collaboration, we strive for No Waste. No Hunger.

Council Positions Include:

President: With support from the Second Harvest staff lead, the President will guide initiatives and project deliverables of the council and will serve as the primary representative for the youth council in Second Harvest's mission to reduce food waste.

Vice-President: The Vice President will support the President in leading the council, facilitating meetings, and helping to develop strategies that promote youth engagement in Second Harvest’s initiatives.

Member-At-Large: Members at Large will actively participate in council activities, contribute perspectives on food waste issues and support the development of initiatives that engage youth in Second Harvest’s mission.

Time Commitment:

• 6-month commitment, January-June 2026
• Approximately 3 hours per week
• Attendance at biweekly virtual council meetings and ad-hoc subcommittee meetings as needed.

Requirements & Qualifications:

• Age range: 18-25 years old
• Experience in youth leadership roles, community service, or advocacy is an asset.
• Highly engaged and willing to post about the council’s efforts and Second Harvest’s
• mission on personal social media (large following on social channels is an asset)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Able to manage tasks efficiently to ensure completion in a timely manner
• Proficient computer skills including MS Office Suite, virtual meetings
• Passionate about food waste prevention and its impact on climate
• Culturally aware and sensitive, valuing diversity and inclusion in discussions and initiatives.
• Motivated self-starters who demonstrate initiative and creativity.
• Open-minded and adaptable, with a willingness to learn and grow

Benefits:

• $500 honorarium for participation and completion of full council term
• Opportunities for mentorship and personal development through workshops and trainings
• Collaborate with industry experts and like-minded peers passionate about food systems
• A platform to amplify your voice and influence positive change in food policy and
• practices.
• Certificate of completion upon cohort term-end and option to be part of Second Harvest’s Youth Alumni Circle
• Reference letter(s) for all participating youth

To Apply:

Please complete a Youth Council Application Form and submit an updated resume to apply for this opportunity. Please contact volunteer@secondharvest.ca for any questions/enquiries.

Application window will remain open until November 24, 2025 or until all council positions have

been filled.