Junior Canadian Rangers

What is the Junior Canadian Rangers’ Program?

The Junior Canadian Rangers is a youth program led by the Department of National Defence (DND). The DND provides the structure, personnel, and uniforms. Training expertise, supervision, funding and training aides come from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).^{Footnote 1}  Junior Canadian Rangers are not CAF members.

The program is open to all youth aged 12 to 18 years who live in remote and isolated communities of Canada. It promotes traditional cultures and lifestyles.

The Junior Canadian Rangers form part of a patrol when the program exists in their community.^{Footnote 2}  According to the Junior Canadian Rangers Patrol Directory, there are 4,271 youths participating in over 135 patrols.

What are Junior Canadian Ranger activities?

Under the supervision of qualified Canadian Rangers, adult volunteers, and other CAF members, Junior Canadian Rangers participate in a variety of activities. Many of these activities involve three important “circles” of training: Ranger Skills, Traditional Skills and Life Skills. For more information about this training and participation in summer camps, consult the What Junior Canadian Rangers do website with its Frequently Asked Questions.

Where can I find more information?

Additional information on Junior Canadian Rangers can be found at the following websites: 

• Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers
• Medical Care for Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers
• Junior Canadian Rangers Facebook

The Office of the Ombudsman for the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces is also available to assist.