What to Bring? :: What to Bring to OYP 2012 (in PDF format).
How old do I need to be?
You need to be 14-21 years old as of January 1, 2012.
Who supervises the event?
Adult Resource Counsellors (ARCs) are devoted adults who supervise the event and all of the planning meetings. Most ARCs were Parliamentarians in their youth.
Why should I come?
Apart from tons of fun and new friends, you also get public speaking experience, leadership opportunities, and something really cool to write down on resumes and scholarship applications.
Why is OYP held in a church?
Every year, congregations at the host churches are willing to donate the use of their facility, and have helped us in many ways. Although OYP is held in Christian surroundings, youth of all faiths are encouraged to attend. OYP explores spiritual questions in an open and non-judgmental fashion. We thank the churches by participating in their Sunday morning worship service.
Does it matter if I’m not Christian?
Not in the slightest.
Does OYP raise money during the weekend?
OYP delegates recognize the importance of charity, so each year, OYP raises funds and awareness for a ‘Love Project.’ The Love Project consists of a local charity in the host community, and another charity that focuses on broader youth issues.
I'm from out of town; where will I stay?
With a billet. Delegates are billeted with families from the host church and other community members. Your billet will provide a bed to sleep in, breakfast in the morning, and transportation to and from the church at the required times. Delegates are paired up with at least one other delegate (of the same gender) and all billets are screened through our Billeting Policy. This is a unique opportunity for delegates to get to know each other, as well as meeting community members. Billeting with new friends always ends up being a lot of fun for everyone.
How much does the weekend cost?
The registration fee is $140. This includes all meals, two dances, three nights’ accommodation, transportation to Parliament, and rental of the banquet hall for our semi-formal dinner and dance.
How do I get to OYP?
If you live more than 50 km away, transportation is included! Delegates board OYP chartered buses (or a carpool) in major city centres across the province and are returned to the same location. On the bus, youth are supervised by Adult Resource Counsellors (ARCs), who lead them in activities and introduce delegates to one another and the Parliamentary experience.
What is the dress code during the in-house debates?
Because we are modeled after the provincial government, we try to be professional in what we wear. Boys should wear a tie and jacket, sweater, or vest. Girls should wear a dress, skirt, or dress pants. Everyone’s shoulders must be covered to speak in the house. Denim, mini-skirts, running shoes and open-toed shoes are not allowed. However, this only applies for the Parliamentary sittings. Outside of the house (for the talent show, the dance, etc.) the dress code is much more relaxed.
What do I need to bring?
What to bring:
• A weekend's worth of semi-formal clothes for sittings.
• Casual clothes for evenings and bus rides.
• A costume for the Saturday dance (more details will follow in the acceptance package).
• Pyjamas and appropriate toiletries.
• A billet gift.
• Some spare change (for the Love Project).
• A couple secret friend gifts (ex. dollar store toys, candies, etc.).
• Your health card.
• Costumes/decorations for the theme (will be in the acceptance package).
How do I sign up?
To register for the weekend a completed registration form should be sent to the present registrar either by mail or e-mail. Check out the registration page for more information.
I have allergies, what will I eat?
If you have any food allergies, please indicate them on the registration form and proper meal arrangements will be made for you.
Much of this information will be sent to confirmed delegates in the form of an acceptance package.
If you have any more questions whatsoever,
please do not hesitate to contact Jon Reed at registrar@oyp.on.ca.
