Frequently Asked Questions

Why should my CYAC become a member of CYACC?

Membership strengthens your centres voice in national awareness and advocacy for the CYAC model, provides access to resources and connects you with the Network of CYACs and their multi-disciplinary team colleagues and other partners. Members help shape the direction of the national association and gain opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing and leadership.

What is the difference between being a member of CYACC and participating in the Network?

Currently, non-member CYACs will have access to some foundational supports - such as the National Meeting and webinars. However, members receive additional benefits including a voice in national advocacy for the CYAC model, accreditation development, participation in CYACC governance and future targeted funding opportunities. Access to opportunities may change over time.

How were membership dues determined?

The dues model was designed to reflect operational realities across operational CYACs as well as those in various stages of feasibility and development. The tiered-based approach promotes fairness and is based on the operating budget of the CYAC itself - not the broader organization it may be a part of. Network feedback and comparisons to similar national organizations helped shape the model.

What will membership dues support?

Dues will help fund initiatives not covered by government grants such as national advocacy, and some member engagement. These funds give CYACC the flexibility to pursue work that aligns with member priorities.

Will dues increase in the future?

Dues are not intended to be the primary revenue stream for CYACC. As the association grows and secures other funding sources, it is possible that dues will decrease.

What if our CYAC cannot afford the dues?

CYACC is committed to inclusivity. A “Support a Centre” fund will allow well-resourced members to subsidize dues for CYACs facing financial barriers. Centres may apply for support when dues begin in April 2026. Centres interested in supporting this initiative are asked to contact the office.

Who within our organization gets access to benefits?

Membership is held at the CYAC level, but all staff, volunteers, and members of their multi-disciplinary team will have access to CYACC programs, services and benefits regardless of their employer.

Can CYACs in development become members?

Yes. CYACs that are in feasibility or development phases (i.e., are not providing services or supports to children, youth and their families) are welcome as Emerging Members. These centres receive nearly all benefits (excluding voting rights) and pay a reduced fee to reflect their stage and budget. In fact, as CYACC works to support national efforts to ensure that all children and youth in Canada have access to the services and supports provided by a CYAC model there will be even more value for Emerging Members.

What was the Founding Member opportunity?

The Founding Member opportunity was a one-time initiative open to operational CYACs that joined CYACC by June 30, 2025 and paid dues for the 2025–2026 membership cycle. Centres that enrolled during this window are recognized as Founding Members in recognition of their early commitment to strengthening a national voice for CYACs.

Founding Members receive special benefits including a unique trustmark, lapel pin, and public recognition, as a permanent acknowledgment of their role in helping launch CYACC. The unrestricted funds raised through this inaugural membership cohort played a critical role in supporting CYACC’s early growth, capacity building, and national thought leadership.

Will membership categories expand in the future?

Possibly. As the association evolves, CYACC may create new categories to involve national MDT partners or other allied organizations that support the CYAC model.

How can non-CYACs get involved with CYACC?

CYACC welcomes individuals, organizations, and partners who support child and youth advocacy, even if you are not an operational Child & Youth Advocacy Centre. Here are ways you can be involved:

• Join the CYACC Mailing List - Stay connected with national updates, training opportunities, events, and advocacy efforts. Anyone can sign up to receive CYACC communications.

• Explore Partnership Opportunities - Industry patrons, researchers, educators, community organizations, and supporters can get involved by collaborating on projects, training, research, or knowledge-sharing initiatives. You can also contribute through donations, sponsorships, amplifying CYACC’s messaging, or connecting us with networks that advance our mission. Reach out to hello@cyacc.ca