Katie has worked at Choices for Youth for over ten years, and has witnessed many ups, downs, challenges and successes of young people during that time. As we’ve grown and expanded to offer more services, she’s been excited to see an increase in the types of help and support youth can get when they come through the doors.
Katie currently works at the Outreach and Youth Engagement Centre. The Centre is a bustling hub of young people- some eating a warm meal during drop-in, others needing support from a staff person or member of the health care team. Every time the doorbell rings at the Centre, it’s a new opportunity to help a young person with whatever they may need in that moment.
After having worked with the Outreach and Engagement team for over five years, Katie is still as passionate and fulfilled by the work as when she started:“I can’t imagine doing anything else, I love it!”
A SAFE SPACE
Katie sees Outreach as more than a place for youth to get their needs met. The Outreach team also works very hard to foster a space that harbours safety and support for many young people in our community. The team understands that feeling accepted, connected and a part of a community is fundamental for the work they do.
““I can’t imagine doing anything else, I love it!””
The Outreach team works together to build trusting relationships with youth and help them work towards their goals. “It can be as simple as meeting basic needs, like handing out a toothbrush, or as complex as providing mental health interventions, navigating challenging systems, or advocating for social justice. We celebrate all youth's successes- big and small, and are inspired and motivated by the youth we have the pleasure of working alongside every day."
Every year, Choices for Youth works with over 1,000 young people in our community supporting them with housing, health, employment and family.
