Calgary John Howard SocietyHome > Programs > Youth Services> Youth Advocacy and Support
Youth Advocacy and Support
- Program Description
- Referral Sources
- Client Feedback
The Youth Advocacy and Support program (YAS) assists youth between 13-18 years old who are at risk of and/or involved in the criminal justice system. These youth are assisted with the difficulties they are experiencing in the home, at school and/or in the community that may lead to risk of criminal behavior. Program staff provides one-to-one support, family mediation, crisis resolution and counseling for youth experiencing family breakdown/conflict, substance misuse issues, anger management, mental health and other issues.
Youth Advocates can assist with:
- Assist in accessing services and resources for basic needs, housing, employment, education, financial support, child welfare assistance, criminal justice system assistance, legal rights and services, education and recreation
- Assist youth to assess needs and work towards positive change
- Creating alternatives to crime
- Counseling and one to one support
- Family support and Mediation
- Individual and systems advocacy
- Community collaboration
- Outreach
- Program creation
Contact:
Mark Cruz - Youth Advocate
Direct Line: (403) 543-7826
Fax: (403) 265-2458
mark.cruz@calgaryjohnhoward.org
United Way of Calgary and Area
Youth can refer themselves or may be referred by a family member, teacher, social worker, probation officer, or other professional with whom they have contact.
“I can do things I have to ‘cause I know how to now.”
“I know I can call when I feel like slashing and you will talk me out of it” (on self injurious behavior)
“I didn’t think I could do it, but you were right, I guess I can.”
“It (recreation opportunity) keeps me away from the people I used to do crime with when I am not at work.”
“It’s great to have someone there to listen and help me get what I needed.”