Backgrounder
Friends, opportunities and experiences for life...
Junior Canadian Rangers are proud and skilled youth who are involved in their communities. They are girls and boys 12 to 18, who live in remote and isolated areas of Canada that have Canadian Rangers. There are currently about 3,400 youth participating in over 110 patrols. The Junior Canadian Rangers Programme is a structured and meaningful enterprise that helps preserve culture and traditions unique to each community.
What do Junior Canadian Rangers do?
Junior Canadian Rangers are taught traditional skills, life skills, and Ranger skills. With traditional and life skills included in the curriculum, the community can infuse cultural norms, local language, regional skills, and social needs into the programme. It all happens in a fun, friendly and safe environment!
Ranger skills include:
- applying first aid
- volunteering and being a good role model
- using small boats, snowmobiles and ATVs
- using rifles safely
Traditional skills can include:
- hunting and fishing
- living on the land
- learning about spirituality, language, music and art
- discussing customs and traditions with elders
Life skills can include:
- living in a healthy way
- preventing harassment and abuse
- speaking in public
- protecting the environment
Who supports the program?
The Junior Canadian Rangers programme is community sponsored in partnership with the Department of National Defence and other federal, provincial and regional organizations.
How can we recognize Junior Canadian Rangers?
Junior Canadian Rangers wear a green sweatshirt and ball cap emblazoned with the Junior Canadian Rangers crest.
Who teaches the Junior Canadian Rangers?
Canadian Rangers, adult volunteers from the community and other Canadian Forces personnel teach and lead the Junior Canadian Rangers. Local adults and elders may also provide instruction in traditional and cultural activities. All adult instructors are carefully screened and selected based on their suitability and personal qualifications.
