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:
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 recreationAssist 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.”