Identified gaps

Greater individualization of programming
  • A number of reviews suggest that their clients need programming that is personalized to their individual needs; their clients do not “fit” well into existing curricula.
  • Clients need accurate and comprehensive assessments to get the most useful services. Service providers note that some clients are identified as being at-risk for gang involvement for example, but they may have other issues as well, such as trauma or mental health issues.

Provide support for basic needs
  • Many youth, especially those with FASD, need help with meeting their basic needs – food and housing – before their issues with addiction/substance use, mental health, family conflict, and skill development can be addressed.

More education/awareness on Indigenous history and cultures
  • Many programs intend to offer culturally specific programming or provide their existing staff with training to enhance their cultural competencies. Participants mostly appreciate the efforts and many recommend that training and awareness of Indigenous history and cultural practices should be offered to more people – both Indigenous clients and non-Indigenous Canadians.

More female-specific programming and female staff/mentors
  • Several programs note that female clients appreciate girl-only activities or programming and request more female staff and mentors.

Provide programs tailored to visible minorities and to recent immigrants
  • Some programs are designed for at-risk youth who are visible minorities or recent immigrants.
  • Some youth participants who are from visible minority groups speak of being “profiled” by the police and express distrust of authorities. Service providers need to earn the trust of racialized youth and programs need to help youth who are experiencing racism.
  • Some immigrant youth (and their families) appear to be struggling to adapt to life in Canada. One program that did focus on immigrant youth had notable success pairing at-risk youth with mentors from their own culture. 

Provide support for families, not just youth

  • Several programs indicate that youth in contact with the CJS are often dealing with conflict within their own families and that greater support for families is needed.
  • Recently arrived immigrant families might also benefit from support and mentorship.