Why Join Army Cadets

When people hear “Army Cadets,” they sometimes think of uniforms and drills, but what truly happens inside 1705 Royal Canadian Army Cadets goes far beyond that. Our corps is a place where young people discover who they are, what they’re capable of, and how to stand tall in a world that needs strong, compassionate leaders.

The Cadet Program is open to youth between the ages of 12 and 18, and it’s completely free to join. Supported by the Department of National Defence and the Army Cadet League of Canada, it offers structured, hands-on experiences that challenge and empower young people, all while surrounding them with mentors who care and a community that believes in them.

Skills That Last a Lifetime

Cadets learn much more than how to march or wear a uniform. Through fun, engaging activities, like map and compass navigation, outdoor survival, team leadership exercises, marksmanship, citizenship projects, and community service, they develop essential life skills: self-discipline, teamwork, confidence, and resilience. These are the qualities that set youth apart when they apply for jobs, scholarships, or leadership roles later in life.

Cadets also get opportunities that most teens never experience, like attending national summer training camps, traveling across the country, and participating in adventure expeditions. Every skill learned in cadets translates directly into life outside the program: clear communication, problem-solving, responsibility, and respect.

Benefits for Families

For parents and guardians, cadets offer something rare, a structured, positive environment where young people are challenged, supported, and inspired to grow. The program is built on values of respect, service, and integrity, helping youth develop the confidence to lead, the humility to follow, and the maturity to contribute to their communities.

Parents often tell us they see transformations in their children within just a few months, stronger self-esteem, better organization, new friendships, and a deeper sense of belonging. It’s also a place where families become part of something bigger. Through the Support Committee, adults can volunteer, fundraise, and directly contribute to the success of every cadet.

A Program Rooted in Community and Purpose

At 1705 Army Cadets, we take pride in being a cornerstone of youth development here in Vernon. We believe leadership doesn’t start with a title, it starts with character. Each parade night, field exercise, and community event is a chance for young people to learn what it means to serve others, take initiative, and stand up for what’s right.

The friendships and mentorships built in cadets often last a lifetime. Many of our alumni go on to succeed in fields ranging from the military and emergency services to education, business, and the arts. What connects them all is the foundation they built here, a belief in themselves and the discipline to make things happen.

Join Us and Be Part of Something Bigger

If you’re looking for a program that helps youth find purpose, confidence, and connection, we invite you to learn more about joining 1705 Royal Canadian Army Cadets. There’s a place here for every young person, no prior experience required, just an open mind and a willingness to grow.

To get started, visit us in person or contact us directly. Come see what cadets is really about, not just uniforms and parades, but friendship, adventure, and the confidence to lead both in and out of uniform.

Because when a young person joins cadets, they don’t just learn how to lead, they learn how to believe in themselves.