Youthlink

Community Outreach Program

YOUTHLINK has provided prevention and early intervention programs in Scarborough to youth and their families/caregivers since the early 1980’s, focusing on high-needs and under-served neighbourhoods.

Programs typically address issues such as emotional, physical and sexual abuse, family conflict, depression, the impact of poverty, homelessness and violence, unemployment, and cultural transition/conflict. Our broad goal is to minimize risk, promote resiliency and enhance the quality of life for at risk individuals and communities. Our staff are active in the schools and community organizations and work with youth to address their needs.

Programs in Schools
Programs in Communities
Public Education

Programs in Schools
YOUTHLINK offers a variety of prevention and early intervention programs to students attending senior public and secondary schools within the Toronto and Catholic School Boards. Many of our programs fall within the general areas of self-esteem building, leadership development and violence prevention and anti-homophobia awareness. These programs are delivered in formats which include small group, classroom or whole school. School based groups are offered from September through June during school hours.

For further information about these programs, contact the Manager: Scarborough Community Programs and Wraparound Services at 416-967-1773 ext. 210

Programs in Communities
Youth Opportunities/Youth Outreach Worker Program
YOUTHLINK recognizes the importance of reaching out to youth who live in communities that are underserved. Our goal is to help them identify their needs, strengths and interests with a view to creating positive alternatives and solutions that will give them the recognition and sense of belonging they need.

With funding from the Ministry of Children & Youth Services and as part of a larger Youth Outreach initiative serving Toronto’s 13 priority neighbourhoods, YOUTHLINK has two full time outreach workers in the Eglinton-East/Kennedy Park and Scarborough Village communities. These workers are the resource contact point for youth who have not successfully connected with school or other community organizations. Through activities that include outreach, education, short-term support, referral, consultation and training, youth are able to access a broader range of mental health, employment, education and social-recreation services.

Community Youth Councils
YOUTHLINK values what young people have to say and believes that what young people are saying needs to be heard in the communities where they live. We know that young people want to make a positive contribution to their community. YOUTHLINK is working with a group of youth in Dorset Park, Scarborough Village and Kingston/Galloway to create a Youth Council in each of these communities. These Youth Councils will serve as a vehicle for giving youth greater ownership and opportunities for making their community safer and encourages youth to make a difference through active participation. Each Youth Council will identify priorities for action in their community based on direct consultation with youth.

Scarborough Village Youth Lounge
In partnership with other community groups YOUTHLINK provides staffing for the Youth Lounge which is a drop-in for youth 12-21 and operates within the Scarborough Village Recreation Centre.

North West Scarborough Youth Centre
YOUTHLINK is currently trustee for this agency that offers youth centered programs and services in Northwest Scarborough. Please visit their site for more information.

Public Education
YOUTHLINK provides education to youth, their families and to specific community groups on a range of topics. These presentations are intended to strengthen community awareness in youth issues as well as promote positive social, cultural and educational development.