OYP runs entirely on the time and dedication of its volunteers - many of whom are alumni themselves. Once you've become a dinosaur, there are several ways to stay part of the OYP community.
Let us know if you have any other ideas. If you want to host a local alumni get together, fundraiser, etc. please reach out.
Adult Resource Councellors (ARCs) provide the supervision, mentorship, and support that make each parliament run safely and smoothly. Each spring, a call for ARCs and other event volunteers goes out, along with a link to apply.
Want to help out at the event in some other way? Reach out to our Chief ARCs any time.
Interested in volunteering at OYP, a cabinet meeting, or in some other way?
Reach out to our Chief ARCs any time to let them know how you'd like to help out. They'll follow up when the right opportunity comes along.
Want to stay more closely tied to OYP's future? Becoming a Sustaining Member - also known as a "Senator" - is the first step. The call for member applications goes out from the President each spring, though new members can be added throughout the year. Reach out to the Board of Directors if you'd like to get involved.
OYP has been shaping young leaders since 1969 - and the Alumni Impact Study confirms what generations of delegates have known for decades: this experience stays with you.
75% of alumni say OYP built their leadership skills, and 71% say it built their public speaking skills. Many credit those years in the House with skills they still use today - in careers, volunteer work, and community life.
"As a federal government employee for the past 25 years, I have led several community funding programs. I attribute the confidence I have when interacting with our partners to my time debating bills in OYP, where I learned to see each issue from different perspectives."
- OYP Alumnus, 1989 - 1992
88% of alumni are still in touch with people they met at OYP, and 91% say they could reach out to another alum for support today. Some of those friendships span decades.
"Lifelong friendships can start at OYP, and you never know how it can impact your life. In my case, my OYP friendships were instrumental in helping me achieve the career that I wanted."
- OYP Alumnus, 1985 - 1989
58% of alumni say they've engaged with OYP in some capacity since becoming a "dinosaur" (aging out of the program) whether as volunteers, Adult Resource Counsellors, Association members, or supporters. In a program run entirely by volunteers, that kind of ongoing involvement is what keeps OYP going.
Curious about the full findings behind these numbers? Our 2025 Alumni Impact Study includes the complete survey results, more alumni stories, and a closer look at what OYP's community looks like today.
On November 16, 2019, 83 alumni from Ontario Youth Parliament gathered in Oakville, Ontario to celebrate the organization’s 50th anniversary. Returning to the site of the very first OYP, alumni connected with old and new friends while participating in a one-day debate session. Reflecting on the theme “All Roads Lead Home”, this opportunity provided a forum for alumni to share the lasting impact OYP has had on them.
