Adopt-A-Teen is a holiday giving program that ensures Edmonton teens aged 13–17 receive a gift to brighten their season. Since 1999, thousands of teens have felt the joy of being remembered during the holidays thanks to this community-driven program.
This year marks a new and exciting chapter: Adopt-A-Teen has officially joined the Youth Empowerment and Support Services (YESS) family. Together with the Christmas Bureau of Edmonton, who founded and grew the program into a beloved tradition, we’re ensuring that Edmonton’s teens continue to feel supported, celebrated, and cared for.
How It Works
When you “adopt” a teen, you’re giving them more than just a gift—you’re showing them that they’re seen, valued, and cared for. Each teen receives a $50 gift card, giving them the freedom to choose something special for themselves this holiday season.
Adopt 1 teen for $50
Adopt 2 teens for $100
Adopt 4 teens for $200
Adopt 10 teens for $500
Every donation, big or small, helps make the holidays brighter for Edmonton’s youth.
Adopt-A-Teen Today“Adopt-A-Teen has been an Edmonton holiday tradition for decades, and we are so grateful to carry it forward. The partnership with the Christmas Bureau not only brings holiday joy to teens who need it most, it will also help more young people learn about the supports YESS offers year-round. Most of all, it’s a reminder to every teen that they matter and they belong to a community that truly cares.”
— Corey Mowles, President & CEO, YESS
Why It Matters
The holidays can be a difficult time for youth who may already feel disconnected or overlooked. By supporting this initiative, you’re part of a community that believes every young person deserves holiday joy and the dignity of choice.
Together, we can make sure no teen feels forgotten this holiday season.
A New Look for a Holiday Tradition
With a new transition comes a new look. We’re proud to share that the new Adopt-A-Teen logo was designed by Emmette, one of the incredible youth at YESS. His creativity and vision bring a fresh energy to this long-standing holiday tradition, making it even more meaningful as we carry it forward together.
Meet Emmette
My name’s Emmette and I’m an aspiring graphic designer. I was born and raised in Edmonton. I graduated back at Archbishop O’Leary Catholic High School. While I was in high school, I took a variety of courses related to graphic design. I took web design, 3D printing, and a bit of architectural work, and worked with Adobe Photoshop.
One of the few things I have done was make a print for a t-shirt. I have done modeling as well. At first, I wasn’t so sure on what I would do with my life or what courses I would take. So, I gave graphic design a shot and I don’t regret taking it. At first, I was like, is this what I want? And turns out yes.
Growing up, I was raised in a foster care home. But later on in life I was adopted. I have many foster siblings, but growing up I had 6 brothers. We practically did everything together. We went out a lot to play, did nerf wars, and all the childhood things one would expect.
Learn More About Adopt-A-Teen
