ABOUT THE YOUTH SPACE
Our site seeks to change the way youth access services, to engage young people in ways that improve individual well-being and the well-being of the community as a whole. This will be done through collaboration with youth, families, caregivers, community organizers, and service providers to ensure seamless access to care and to reduce gaps in services across organizations. This care will be delivered in youth-friendly ways based on the principles of inclusion, respect, participation, empowerment, and hope.
YOUTH PROGRAMS
Sample Programs:
Youth Social Enterprise, Baking nights, Movie nights, Archery, Cultural events, Youth Council (Local and National), Family Carers Council (Local and National), National Online Youth Self Referral App, Art therapy, Nature walks, Exercise programs, Wild Child, Youth Library and Art therapy.
SOCIAL ENTERPRISE
Current programs include baking, movie nights, craft nights, artwork and a cyber cafe. Programs integrate positive youth development, community engagement, workforce readiness and agile thinking–social entrepreneurship.
These enterprises offer youth their first wage-earning jobs, and an incubated setting where youth can take a variety of business and community leadership positions which will encourage our youth to be successful community members.
WHOLE PERSON
Recognition that a youth in distress is a “whole person,” not just their “disorder” or “symptoms”. Care focuses on all aspects of a young person's well-being: psychological, physical, social, functional, spiritual/existential, etc.
ACCESS
There is easy and timely access to assessment and appropriate care, in a safe youth-friendly community setting.
COMPASSION
Services are delivered from a place of caring, empathy, transparency, respect and patience.
Culture of Care
CORE VALUES
SHARED DECISION MAKING
The young person is informed and shares decision making about their care. Service is in the language in which the young person can express themselves.
PERSONAL GOALS
Care is recovery-oriented and evidence-informed, with the aim of working towards personally meaningful goals for the youth.
DIVERSITY
Care values all expressions of diversity including gender, ethnicity, cultural and historical background, and personal preferences.
STRENGTHS AND RESILIENCE
Services are delivered from a philosophy of hope, resilience, empowerment and respect for personal agency. The approach draws from the young person’s own strengths, their network and community.
FAMILIES AND CARERS
are included as valued partners who can assist in the care of youth