Services are available in English and Farsi

If you or your loved one is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. If the situation involves imminent safety risks or a possible threat of violence, police may be required to respond.

PACT is a mobile civilian-led team that will respond to crisis calls related to mental health and/or substance use on the North Shore. The program pairs a mental health professional and a peer worker to provide trauma-informed, culturally safe support to youth aged 13+ or adults in the North Shore.  Call 1-888-261-7228 or text 778-839-1831.

PACT is your local support team that you can reach out to when you or someone around you is in distress due to:

• thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• family members experiencing challenges
• substance use
• loss of reality
• feelings of hopelessness or despair
• social isolation and loneliness
• fear, anxiety, and depression
• other mental health-related emergencies

How we can help:

• Offer support to you or your loved one over the phone, text, or in-person wherever you feel comfortable
• Listen without judgement and provide a safe space for you to share your story and tell us what is going on
• Provide crisis counselling and de-escalation
• Advocate for you and accompany you to emergency departments, police stations, or community organizations
• Connect you to the appropriate resources, services and supports in the community to meet your underlying needs
• Provide short-term follow-up care to you and your family after a crisis event

What we cannot do:

• Transport you or your loved one from one place to another in the staff vehicle (if needed, transportation will be provided through taxi services)
• Perform psychological assessments to diagnose mental illnesses or write prescriptions for medication
• Make referrals to psychiatrists or other medical specialists for specific treatments for mental or physical health conditions (but we can help you to access primary care)
• Fast-track applications for housing, income or disability assistance, or mental health services.

iYos provides outreach services for youth (ages 13-19) experiencing urgent and emergent mental health and substance use issues. Youth accessing iYos may be experiencing: acute disturbances in mood, thinking or behaviour which might manifest with suicidal ideation, mood problems or psychotic symptoms; moderate to severe primary substance use with or without mental illness; functional challenges associated with housing, income and health; and difficulties accessing health and social services. iYos can provide crisis intervention, short-term counselling, education, Intensive Case Management (ICM) services, and assessments. Additional support and consultation to parents regarding their youth in crisis is also offered. iYOS is available 7 days per week for urgent matters with staff available weekdays 8:30 am to 11:00 pm, and weekends 11:00 am to 11:00 pm.

Foundry North Shore is a place where any youth or parent in our community can find easy access to the help they need, when they need it. It is an integrated youth and family initiative that transforms how mental health and substance use services are delivered on the North Shore; providing early intervention to support young peoples’ well being.

Hosted by Vancouver Coastal Health, Foundry North Shore unites over 10 partner organizations that work together to address the health care needs of youth ages 12 to 24 and their families.

Drop In Counselling Hours
Monday & Thursday 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Tuesday/ Wednesday 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Medical Services Drop In
Monday to Thursday 2:30 pm – 5:00 pm

COVID-19 LGBTQAI2S+ Resource Guide by Vancouver PRIDE

We are creating a resource guide targeted at LGBTQAI2S+ communities – though most resources are helpful for everyone – to get through the upcoming weeks and months. From food banks to digital events to employment information, we want to help you ride out the pandemic. We are going to get through this. Together.

A multi-disciplinary and evidence-informed approach to support 13-19 year old youth who are in need of more urgent or intensive mental health and/or substance use services. Outreach workers can provide services in the community.

YURT is for youth experiencing the following:
• Acute disturbance in mood, thinking or behavior which might manifest with suicidal ideation, mood problems or psychotic symptoms
• Moderate to severe primary substance use with or without mental illness
• Functional challenges associated with housing, income and health
• Difficulties accessing health and social services

Whatever is a drop-in program for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth and offers a supportive, caring environment in which to hang out and be heard. This drop-in takes place at West Vancouver’s newest youth space – the Youth Hub at Park Royal Mall. The Youth Hub is a great place to hang out, watch movies, play pool, and more.

Power To Be began in 1998 with an idea: help people living with a disability or barrier access nature. The idea grew into a community, connecting participants to adventures and supporters to opportunities, collectively redefining our definition of ability.

Based in Victoria and Vancouver, we are a non-profit organization that believes everyone belongs in nature. We believe finances shouldn’t prevent anyone from accessing nature, and we work to remove cognitive, physical and social barriers to the outdoors, supporting participants to explore who they are and what they are capable of with the support of our staff, volunteers and each other.

Youth Unlimited has been making a difference in the lives of youth since the early 1940s. Today, we’re an innovative organization affiliated with a network of Youth Unlimited and YFC youth workers all around the world. Keep on reading to learn more about why we’re committed to reaching youth in Greater Vancouver.

Foundry North Shore is a place where any youth or parent in our community can find easy access to the help they need, when they need it. It is an integrated youth and family initiative that transforms how mental health and substance use services are delivered on the North Shore; providing early intervention to support young peoples’ well being.

Hosted by Vancouver Coastal Health, Foundry North Shore unites over 10 partner organizations that work together to address the health care needs of youth ages 12 to 24 and their families.

Drop In Counselling Hours
Monday & Thursday 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Tuesday/ Wednesday 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Medical Services Drop In
Monday to Thursday 2:30 pm – 5:00 pm

Capilano Community Services offers the following for youth programs:

• One to one support
• Outreach in schools
• Outreach in the community
• Safe & fun drop-in programs

Capilano youth services are available to all youth in the Upper and Lower Capilano, Pemberton, Pemberton Heights, and Norgate area. However, please contact them if you require services in another geographic area, as they may be able to provide a referral to other community organizations.

Parkgate Community Services Society’s Youth Outreach Workers will meet youth almost anywhere at almost any time. If you are youth and you feel that you need to talk to someone right away, contact one of the Youth Outreach Workers below. If they are not immediately available, they will connect you with another team member, youth worker or appropriate resource.

How can Youth Outreach Workers help you? They can assist you in the following ways:
– Help you take charge of your life
– Connect you with what is happening for youth in the community
– Teach you skills that will help you at school, at work and at home
– Show you how to accomplish your dreams
– Provide workshops on topics like leadership training, drugs & alcohol, etc.
– Help you with family problems
– Help you with girl or guy problems
– Stick up for you when no one else will
– Help you with your problems, no matter how big or small, when you don’t seem to have anywhere else to turn

Capilano Community Services offers the following for youth programs:

• One to one support
• Outreach in schools
• Outreach in the community
• Safe & fun drop-in programs

Capilano youth services are available to all youth in the Upper and Lower Capilano, Pemberton, Pemberton Heights, and Norgate area. However, please contact them if you require services in another geographic area, as they may be able to provide a referral to other community organizations.

The Youth Centre Coordinator at Parkgate Community Centre organizes/supervises both preteen and teen drop-ins. The coordinator is a great resource if you need support on a Friday and/or Saturday evening with a crisis, safe place to chill, or just want someone to chat with.

In addition, the coordinator is always looking for new ideas to make Parkgate’s spaces more youth friendly, so if you have a great idea for a drop-in they would love to work with you to make it happen!

The Impact North Shore Youth Department has been serving school aged youth and emerging adults on the north shore since 2001. Through a hands on approach, their diverse and experienced staff are committed to creating safe spaces of engagement and growth.

INS’s programming meets youths’ needs wherever they may be in their journey, either through group work or one-on-one support. They strive to promote inclusion, community, diversity, education, and volunteerism.

Sindy is the Youth Coordinator & Facilitator at Impact North Shore. One-on-one support is available all year round.

Youth Engagement Worker
Mountainside Secondary School

Youth Engagement Worker
Mountainside Secondary School

Youth Engagement Worker
Mountainside Secondary School

The Impact North Shore Youth Department has been serving school aged youth and emerging adults on the north shore since 2001. Through a hands on approach, their diverse and experienced staff are committed to creating safe spaces of engagement and growth.

INS programming meets youths’ needs wherever they may be in their journey, either through group work or one-on-one support. They strive to promote inclusion, community, diversity, education, and volunteerism.

One-on-one support is available all year round.

The West Vancouver Youth Services team offers various activities, programs, and services for youth from grades 6 to 12. Visit their website at westvancouver.ca/youth to learn more about opportunities for youth, special events, 1:1 and group support, youth committees, and their dedicated youth spaces. Youth Outreach Workers can offer 1:1 support and group support, referrals, and community engagement.

Parkgate Community Services Society’s Youth Outreach Workers will meet youth almost anywhere at almost any time. If you are youth and you feel that you need to talk to someone right away, contact one of the Youth Outreach Workers below. If they are not immediately available, they will connect you with another team member, youth worker or appropriate resource.

How can Youth Outreach Workers help you? They can assist you in the following ways:
– Help you take charge of your life
– Connect you with what is happening for youth in the community
– Teach you skills that will help you at school, at work and at home
– Show you how to accomplish your dreams
– Provide workshops on topics like leadership training, drugs and alcohol, etc.
– Help you with family problems
– Help you with girl or guy problems
– Stick up for you when no one else will
– Help you with your problems, no matter how big or small, when you don’t seem to have anywhere else to turn

PLEA’s vision is a world where everyone has the opportunity for a good life, and where everyone counts. To fulfil this vision PLEA delivers unique services, tailored to individual strengths and needs, to children, youth, adults and families facing significant challenges so that they may live fulfilling lives within their communities.

Services are available in English and Farsi

If you or your loved one is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. If the situation involves imminent safety risks or a possible threat of violence, police may be required to respond.

PACT is a mobile civilian-led team that will respond to crisis calls related to mental health and/or substance use on the North Shore. The program pairs a mental health professional and a peer worker to provide trauma-informed, culturally safe support to youth aged 13+ or adults in the North Shore.  Call 1-888-261-7228 or text 778-839-1831.

PACT is your local support team that you can reach out to when you or someone around you is in distress due to:

• thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• family members experiencing challenges
• substance use
• loss of reality
• feelings of hopelessness or despair
• social isolation and loneliness
• fear, anxiety, and depression
• other mental health-related emergencies

How we can help:

• Offer support to you or your loved one over the phone, text, or in-person wherever you feel comfortable
• Listen without judgement and provide a safe space for you to share your story and tell us what is going on
• Provide crisis counselling and de-escalation
• Advocate for you and accompany you to emergency departments, police stations, or community organizations
• Connect you to the appropriate resources, services and supports in the community to meet your underlying needs
• Provide short-term follow-up care to you and your family after a crisis event

What we cannot do:

• Transport you or your loved one from one place to another in the staff vehicle (if needed, transportation will be provided through taxi services)
• Perform psychological assessments to diagnose mental illnesses or write prescriptions for medication
• Make referrals to psychiatrists or other medical specialists for specific treatments for mental or physical health conditions (but we can help you to access primary care)
• Fast-track applications for housing, income or disability assistance, or mental health services.

iYos provides outreach services for youth (ages 13-19) experiencing urgent and emergent mental health and substance use issues. Youth accessing iYos may be experiencing: acute disturbances in mood, thinking or behaviour which might manifest with suicidal ideation, mood problems or psychotic symptoms; moderate to severe primary substance use with or without mental illness; functional challenges associated with housing, income and health; and difficulties accessing health and social services. iYos can provide crisis intervention, short-term counselling, education, Intensive Case Management (ICM) services, and assessments. Additional support and consultation to parents regarding their youth in crisis is also offered. iYOS is available 7 days per week for urgent matters with staff available weekdays 8:30 am to 11:00 pm, and weekends 11:00 am to 11:00 pm.

In partnership with Community Psychiatric Services, CMHA North and West Vancouver provides group home support for 13 men and 6 women through our Supportive Housing Program. We currently operate three supportive housing projects: Lillian House, Harold House & Aborlynn House.

Recovery looks different for each individual. With the support and direction of the clinical team of Vancouver Coastal Health, CMHA staff help residents focus on their recovery goals. While some residents suffer with significant physical ailments that impact their mobility, others benefit from being able to engage in regular physical exercise through North Vancouver’s recreation system. While some residents are stabilized on their medications and symptoms of their mental illness are well managed others actively struggle with achieving mental well-being. Staff support residents wherever they are in their recovery journey.

Placements into CMHA Supportive Housing are made by Community Psychiatric Services at the HOpe Centre in consultation with CMHA North and West Vancouver and are part of the overall mental health strategy of the Health Authority for the North Shore. Inquiries into supportive housing should be directed to the HOpe Centre.

Harvest Project is a community-based urban relief organization and registered Canadian charity. We connect with more than 1000 people each month – as we provide one-to-one client-coaching and active-listening, a rent bank, a grocery-support program, clothing supports, assistance for workforce re-entry, food-recovery and redistribution, and our retail Clothes For Change Thrift Boutique. All supported by volunteers and donors from every corner of the North Shore.

Harvest Project serves Metro-Vancouver’s North Shore, ‘extending a hand up’ to those in need. We provide assistance to residents from Deep Cove in the east to Horseshoe Bay in the west. Our vision is to enlarge our work as a compassionate presence for North Shore residents, by North Shore residents. We’re working to help the North Shore become the most inclusive, healthy and diverse community in Canada. We aim to collaborate with the other excellent services and not-for-profit agencies operating in our community.

In one of the wealthiest regions in Canada, critical family needs are often hidden and services are scarce for those who find themselves in desperate times. About 1 in 5 North Shore families are headed by a lone-parent – representing thousands of people. These families, and many others, are at-risk of losing access to physical, social and economic resources and opportunities.

Since 1993, Harvest Project has been reaching out to those who are experiencing extreme challenges with family break-downs, illness, job loss, and poverty. Our founder, David Foster, was a young West Vancouver business-person who fell on hard-times, found himself ‘on the street’, and was offered assistance by several local churches and other organizations. He came to embrace a Christian faith and felt inspired to begin Harvest Project as an expression of the Biblical principles of solidarity with those in poverty, caring for marginalized people, and seeking justice for neighbours in-need.

Founded in 1918, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is the most established, most extensive community mental health organization in Canada. Through a presence in more than 330 communities across every province and one territory, CMHA provides advocacy, programs and resources that help to prevent mental health problems and illnesses, support recovery and resilience, and enable all Canadians to flourish and thrive.

With one national office, 11 divisions in all provinces and one territory, and 75 community-based branches/regions, we provide services and supports to over 1.3 million Canadians through the combined efforts of more than 5,000 staff and 11,000 volunteers.

Foundry North Shore is a place where any youth or parent in our community can find easy access to the help they need, when they need it. It is an integrated youth and family initiative that transforms how mental health and substance use services are delivered on the North Shore; providing early intervention to support young peoples’ well being.

Hosted by Vancouver Coastal Health, Foundry North Shore unites over 10 partner organizations that work together to address the health care needs of youth ages 12 to 24 and their families.

Drop In Counselling Hours
Monday & Thursday 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Tuesday/ Wednesday 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Medical Services Drop In
Monday to Thursday 2:30 pm – 5:00 pm

Blue Wave is a program of the Canadian Mental Health Association BC Division which works to support the mental health of youth in British Columbia. Their vision is “To build awareness and acceptance of personal challenges faced by those dealing with mental health issues through education, understanding and support”.

Check out the Blue Wave website for a “Wellness Check”, stories from youth with lived experience, resources and to learn more about their programs: the Janice Lee Blue Wave Bursary, the “Living Life to the Full for Youth” life skills course and Blue Wave social media.

Living Systems Counselling services include individual, couple and family counselling as well as play therapy or pastoral counselling. They offer affordable rates and minimum wait times at convenient locations.

Living Systems Counselling utilizes Bowen family systems theory and therapy to address a wide variety of challenges. This counselling approach can help you think more clearly about yourself and your relationships.

To inquire about an appointment contact 604 926 5496. No doctor’s referral is required.

As a non-profit organization they offer counselling to all, regardless of age, sexual orientation, religious beliefs or income levels.

Family Smart’s mandate is to support and empower families and work collaboratively with professionals and systems in understanding and meeting the mental health needs of families.

Family Smart….
◦promotes child and youth mental health
◦provides families with information and skills on how to manage their child’s worries and anxiety
◦shares information on what services or supports are available for families in child & youth
◦mental health
◦provides information to professionals on topics related to child and youth mental health from a parent’s perspective
◦partners with others in creating information and resources that promote awareness and collaboration in child and youth mental health
◦provides information to families that will enable them to know, and seek out, who does what and where to look for services and resources
◦shares our own experiences and knowledge with others to exchange strengths and knowledge
◦promotes prevention, early identification, and appropriate interventions.

15th Street Youth Services provides substance misuse (or concurrent) outpatient counseling services to youth (13 – 18 years old) and their families throughout the North Shore. Services are voluntary, youth-friendly, client centered, culturally relevant, free, confidential and grounded in best practice. Family participation, though not mandatory, is encouraged.

Services provided included:

Psychosocial assessments
Individual counseling
Family consultation, coaching and therapy
Therapeutic groups
Outreach
Parent consultation / groups
Psychiatric assessments, consultations & medication management
Transition planning
Referrals

Strive is a lifeskills program for youth transitioning out of care to adulthood. This 12 week program consists of lifeskills workshops which are aimed at improving physical, mental, spiritual and emotional wellbeing. Strive supports youth to develop customized goals related to employment, housing, education and health.

Participants must be:
– 17-24 years of age
– Transitioning /transitioned out of care (foster care, group home, youth agreement)
– In need of support to move ahead
– Working less than 20 hours per week

Program highlights include lifeskills workshops, activities, customized action plans, goal setting, one-to-one support, paid job placements and ongoing support.

The Kelty Dennehy Mental Health Resource Centre is located in the Robert and Greta Ho Centre for Psychiatry and Education on the Lions Gate Hospital campus and operated by The Canadian Mental Health Association, North and West Vancouver Branch. The resource centre is a place where family, friends and those affected by mental health challenges can feel comfortable to seek support and get trusted information. By providing the resources, the centre is integral to developing community and addressing barriers and stigma surrounding mental health issues. The centre offers educational opportunities and on-the-ground support and problem solving provided by people with lived-experience.

Hollyburn’s Parenting Teens program is a four session parent education program based on their A Parent’s Influence parenting education program. This seminar series uses the same format to explore how parents can influence their teens behaviour and uses examples and discussion topics that recognize the unique issues and challenges of parenting this developmental stage including: dealing with power struggles; dealing with independence issues; dealing with individuation issues; coping with serious behaviours; and communication issues.

Families can be referred by other professionals or refer themselves and will be connected to a Family Support Worker as soon as possible (usually within 2-4 weeks).

Parent-Teen Mediation is a specialized counselling service designed to improve communication in families experiencing parent-teen conflict. Skilled mediators assist families to develop solutions that promote healthy and realistic expectations for both parents and teenagers. Mediators meet with family members at home, in an office, or in a community location that suits the interests of all parties. Mediation services can help:

Maintain or re-integrate teenagers into the family home
Resolve specific conflicts
Improve family communication
Foster mutual understanding
Arrange referrals to other support services

Parent-Teen Mediation is for families on the North Shore with children between the ages of 12 and 18 who are experiencing conflict with issues like expectations, curfews and other rules, behaviour, school, independence, and respect.

Parent-Teen mediation can involve one to ten sessions over a maximum of three months and is available to all North Shore Residents at no cost.

Through fusion of recreational activities,”STEPS” encourages youth to interact in a nurturing and non-judgemental environment while promoting healthy living habits. Activities like hiking, yoga and laser tag build self confidence and strengthen both social and personal fitness goals. The program touches on all aspects of wellness aiming to equip participants with understanding, skills and strategies for living and maintaining a mentally healthy lifestyle.

Currently the STEPS Program runs September to June. STEPS youth meet weekly. Communication between program coordinator and participants is encouraged on an open group chat webpage keeping youth connected and supported throughout the week. One-on-one meet-ups are also offered through the coordinator as needed. Activities and locations vary, bringing new STEPS adventures weekly.

For more information contact STEPS Youth Program Coordinator, Sydney Mattu.

Hollyburn’s Victim Support Program provides a range of support services free of charge to women, children, youth, and men, who have been victims of:

Relationship violence
Family violence
Sexualized assault (recent or historic)
Criminal harassment.

We provide service to residents of North and West Vancouver, including Bowen Island. We are also able to support individuals outside these areas who are a victim of the above crimes and the matter is scheduled in North Vancouver Provincial Court.

If necessary, services can be provided during non-business hours and/or in a community setting in order to meet your unique circumstances and needs. Coordinated links with multi-language services will be available when required.

Hollyburn also offers fee for service counselling for individuals who have access to Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP) funding. For information on our CVAP registered counsellor, please see the Counselling section on our website.

Individuals may refer themselves or access this services through a referral from a family member, community professional, police officer, or police-based victim service.

The Therapeutic Day Program (TDP) is a partnership between the North Vancouver School District and Vancouver Coastal Health. Our program combines academics with clinical support for students whose mental health concerns have interfered with their learning. Our goal is to help students learn to manage their mental health symptoms and engage in a supportive educational program. TDP is a short-term program designed to provide students with the skills they need to be successful in a full-time school program.

Referrals to TDP are initiated by the either the School Based Resource Team (SBRT) at one of the mainstream high-schools in North and West Vancouver, or by a clinician or psychiatrist at Vancouver Coastal Health. Students coming from outside of the North or West Vancouver School Districts will need to first register with the school district at the NVSD Education Services Centre at 2121 Lonsdale Ave. All referrals for TDP will be screened by the District Resource Team and Vancouver Coastal Health for appropriate fit, with priority given to students from the North Vancouver School District.

Impact North Shore (formerly North Shore Multicultural Society) helps youth and their families learn about and understand the systems and services available in Canada. They are a not-for-profit agency providing a full range of individual and group services including: settlement information and orientation, English language, employment and diversity services. Their mission is to help you achieve a working knowledge of Canadian social, economic and cultural systems.

The INS Youth Department has been serving school ages youth and emerging adults on the North Shore since 2001. Through a hands-on approach, diverse and experienced staff are committed to creating safe spaces of engagement and growth.

Programming meets youths’ needs wherever they may be in their journey, either through group work or one-on-one support. They strive to promote inclusion, community, diversity, education and volunteerism.

You are not alone.

Pathways Serious Mental Illness Society  is here to help you cope – with support, information, education, and advocacy.

Pathways consists of family members and friends of those with mental illness who know what others are going through, and can help by sharing their experience.

CMHA offers clinically directed mental health and addiction services for youth and their families. Individual, group and recreational counselling/therapy available. Self-referral.

The North Shore Stress and Anxiety Clinic offers effective help for adults, parents, teens, children, couples, and families. They will help you better understand your problems, develop a treatment plan that meets your needs, and teach you skills to make lasting positive changes. Their diverse team of psychologists and psychiatrists have the compassion, training, and expertise to provide high-quality assessments and therapy that works. They use state of the art cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based treatment approaches to treat everything from day-to-day stress, anxiety, and low mood to anxiety disorders, clinical depression, and a range of other problems.

The team also conducts psychoeducational assessments and other specialized evaluations (e.g., medical-legal and disability assessments). Their high quality psychoeducational assessments for children, adolescents, and adults are designed to examine potential learning challenges, symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), or giftedness and to assist with school and life planning.

Private services for children, youth and families with ADHD and addiction issues. Access to clinical counselling, group and individual therapy. Fee for service.

Multidisciplinary team consisting of Youth Concurrent Disorder clinicians, Mental Health Clinicians, Psychiatrists, Behavior Support Workers, and Alcohol and Drug Prevention Educators. Referring problems include substance use, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, ADHD and other mental health issues.

Mental health services are accessed through the Ministry of Children and Family Development centralized intake. Referrals for Addiction Services are made directly to the VCH North Shore Child and Youth Mental Health Program.

The ABLE Developmental Clinic Inc. is a private multidisciplinary clinic providing assessment, treatment and consultation for children and youth experiencing difficulties with Attention, Behaviour, Learning, and Emotion. Although ABLE services children and families with all kinds of difficulties, ABLE is known for its work with learning disabilities, ADHD, intellectual disabilities, disruptive behavior, and autism spectrum disorders.

Family Support provides on-going support to families facing the challenge of raising a child with special needs. We offer one-to-one personal support on an outreach basis through education and problem solving and assist families to explain their existing network.

The Centre provides personal support and information on major mental illnesses – schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety disorders.

They also provide a wide range of programs, plus education and information for schools and the general public. To find out more about these programs and other activities, visit their website.

For urgent situations on the North Shore, please call Psychiatric Emergency Nurses (PEN), 604-331-9031, 7 a.m. to midnight; leave a message.

– Do you worry about your weight?
– Do you think you are fat when others say you are too thin?
– Do you worry that you have lost control over how much you eat?
– Would you say that food dominates your life?
– Do you feel guilty after eating?

If you answered “YES” to any of these questions, you may want to contact The North Shore Youth Eating Disorders Program.

For youth 11 – 18 years of age who live on the North Shore, Bowen Island, Sunshine Coast, Powell River or Sea to Sky area. Their teams includes a counsellor, a specialist paediatrician and a dietitian who can help
support you and develop an individualized treatment plan to meet your needs.
You may refer yourself, or a parent/guardian, counsellor, doctor, or someone you trust may refer you.

Health Connection is an Adult Service (19+): provides primary care services to individuals who do not have a regular family doctor or nurse practitioner, and face complex medical, mental health, addiction, and/or socioeconomic needs (e.g., housing, income, access to food). No scheduled appointment or formal referral is necessary to be seen at the Clinic, but scheduled appointments are available.

The Clinic team includes family physicians, a nurse practitioners, substance use nurse, a chronic disease nurse coordinator and a medical office assistants. In addition, the clinic is collaborating with community agencies to support clients who require assistance with non-medical issues such as housing, income and access to food.

This clinic is a partnership between the North Shore Division of Family Practice and Vancouver Coastal Health.

This program is offered in partnership with Westview Elementary and Carson Graham Secondary. It is a friendship-based program which matches male & female high school buddies (grades 9-12) with elementary school-aged children. The buddies spend time on school grounds 1 hour each week during the school year doing a variety of non-academic, fun activities together. The program offers unique cooking classes at Carson Graham where matches learn to make nutritious meals together.

This program matches elementary school-aged boys and girls with local male and female adult volunteers. This is a friendship-based program that provides a mentor for 1 hour per week at a child’s elementary school. Activities range from playing games and sports to doing crafts, enjoying hobbies, reading or just hanging out.

The Life Success Program provides transitional housing and support to assist homeless young adults, ages 18-24, to acquire the skills needed to live independently. Key areas of focus include employment, education, interpersonal relationships and community integration. The Life Success program gives homeless youth a chance to get on their feet, build skills, and form a web of community resources around them while being encouraged and supported in creating a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

Transition Support Workers help the youth cultivate a sense of belonging, build social relationships and integrate in the community. Youth build a sense of self-competency through skill acquisition, and the program creates opportunities for success that will motivate further achievement thus ending the cycle of homelessness.

Hollyburn Family Services provides a number of community-based services to youth and families on the North Shore. Hollyburn has skilled Youth Workers and Family Counsellors who assist youth and families in a variety of programs.

BBGV matches adult volunteers with boys and girls aged 7 – 14 in a variety of mentoring programs. Together they spend between 1 – 4 hours a week together doing fun activities such as soccer, cycling, painting, playing board games and flying kites! The programs big brothers offers to children promote the pursuit of healthy lifestyles and mentors play an important role in encouraging children to reach their full potential. Big and Little Brothers are matched by personality and location.

Training and support is provided by the agency throughout the time that volunteers and children are in the programs.

Youth clinics offer free and confidential drop in services for youth. At a clinic, you can talk to a health care provider about the health issues that are important to you.

Services vary depending on which clinic you go to. Some of the free and confidential services that may be offered include:

STI/HIV testing & treatment
Free condoms and water-based lubricant
Birth control (free or low cost)
Emergency contraception
Pap tests
Free or low-cost birth control options
Pregnancy testing and counselling
General counselling and health information
Immunizations
Smoking Cessation
Mental health and addictions referrals

A Care Card is not required.

Services:

• STI testing & treatment, and partner follow up
• Birth control options
• pills, patch, ring, implant, & the shot
• Emergency contraception, including pill
• HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)
• Pregnancy options counselling & referrals
• Harm reduction, including free condoms and naloxone kits
• Immunizations (HPV, Mpox, Hep A & B)

The KEY Program supports youth in grades 8 – 10. Students pursue their junior high school education in an environment designed to help them engage in social, emotional and academic learning. The program is intended for youth who struggle with the requirements of the mainstream school system, and have difficulty connecting with the traditional classroom environment, structure, and behavioural expectations.

Three agencies (NVSD, Hollyburn, and PLEA) collaborate to provide each student with direct external support services on an individualized needs basis. Staff offer a holistic approach—taking into account the student’s performance at school, as well as the contributing factors of home and community life that affect each student’s outlook.

Referrals to KEY are initiated by the School Based Resource Team (SBRT) at one of the 6 mainstream high-schools in North Vancouver. Students coming from out of district will need to first register with the school district at the NVSD Education Services Centre at 2121 Lonsdale Ave. All out of district requests for Mountainside Secondary School will be screened by the District Resource Team for appropriate fit, with priority given to students from the North Vancouver School District.

Any further inquiries can be directed to Jeremy Church, Principal of Mountainside Secondary School, at 604-903-3333 or by e-mailing jchurch@nvsd44.bc.ca, or Brad Baker, District Principal, at 604-903-3444, or by e-mailing bbaker@nvsd44.bc.ca.

Youth Leaving Care is a program that offers a range of services for youth transitioning out of government care. They provide the emotional, social and developmental supports to assist youth in aging out of care to “age into the community” as functional, independent adults.

Their approach, born from the 4 R’s: Residence, Resources, Relationships, and Resiliency, offers interventions early in the transition process as Transition Support Workers assist youth to develop and execute a life plan inclusive of temporary and/or permanent housing, employment and education, and life skill development.

Many young people leaving government care will often experience fear and isolation as they face the potential loss of relationships and support services. Youth Leaving Care will support and guide youth as they transition into independent living.

This is a collaborative process that involves working with established support services, such as Social Workers, Youth Transition Workers, and Mental health Practitioners to provide a wraparound service for these youth.

To qualify for this program, youth must:
•Be between the ages of 18 and 24
•Have some history of involvement with Ministry of Child and Family Development (MCFD) or Aboriginal Delegated Agency between birth and 19 years of age (this includes Voluntary Care Agreements, Temporary Care Orders, Custody care orders, and Youth Agreements)
•Have the North Shore as their home community

Referral Process
•Self-referral is preferred, however professional or support referrals can also be made
•Referrals can be made directly to the Transition Support Worker via phone or email
•A referral meeting will follow the initial phone referral

Offers bilingual (Farsi-English) clinical counselling for all youth and their parents in addition to groups on healthy relationships, mindfulness and mental health issues. Therapists are specialized in trauma treatment.

Various programs are offered including: individual and family based counselling, support groups for everyone on Saturdays, parenting workshops, Family Integration program (which has various topics including emotion management etc.).

After 20 years, we’ve opened a new chapter in the story of Jessie’s Legacy. Family Services of the North Shore is pleased to announce that Jessie’s Legacy Eating Disorders Prevention and Awareness program is now Embody. Our new program name and visual identity reflect a renewed focus on prevention. We equip BC parents, caregivers, and professionals with evidence-based information to support young people before they develop an eating disorder. Embody remains a provincial program of Family Services of the North Shore, and one of the seven BC Partners for Mental Health and Substance Use Information.

This program provides eating disorders prevention education, resources and support for youth, families, educators and professionals. Embody services and resources are primarily web-based; the program provides media watch, online and telephone support, and offers presentations and workshops all over the Lower Mainland.

Embody is also the leader for Provincial Eating Disorders Awareness (PEDAW), a province-wide effort to raise awareness around prevention, early intervention and treatment of eating disorders as well as media literacy, resiliency, healthy body image and self-esteem. Like the Facebook page to join and participate in Provincial Eating Disorder Awareness Week events.

‘Love Our Bodies, Love Ourselves’, is Embody’s year round social media campaign that believes your worth can’t be measured by the numbers on the scale, the size of your clothes, or the reflection in the mirror.

Join the movement:
Twitter & Instagram: @loveourbodies #loveourbodies
Facebook: loveourbodiesloveourselves
Youtube: loveourbodies

Counselling
We can help you when life gets hard or you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, bullying, disordered eating, sexual abuse, relationship violence, coming out, gender identity, and more. Our counsellors have the training and experience to ensure you feel safe, comfortable, and supported.
If your parents can’t afford the counselling fees or you don’t want to tell them about your sessions, we can help. Our intake counsellor can tell you more about the ways we can support you.
We also provide:
• Free transportation, as needed, to and from our office
• Free drinks and snacks during your counselling sessions
We know you’re busy with school, work, and life in general, so our office is open:
• Weeknights until 8:00 pm
• Saturdays from 9:00am – 4:00pm

Embody
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, or disordered eating of any kind, Embody has education, resources, and inspiration that can help.
We also encourage you to check out Love Our Bodies, Love Ourselves movement. Join the conversation on Facebook , Twitter or Instagram and connect with other B.C. youth who are talking about what it means to have a healthy body image.

YouthLAB
Every year, a small group of North Shore high school students (grades 10-12), come together as volunteers to form the Youth Leadership Advisory Board (YouthLAB). If you are interested in public speaking, writing, and mental health, we’d love to connect with you.
YouthLAB members:
• Meet two evenings each month (weekday evening to be determined), from 4:30 – 6:30pm (snacks included when meetings take place in-person)
• Earn up to 50 hours of community service from September through May
• Learn about mental health issues from our professional counsellors
• Advocate for the needs of at-risk youth in our community
• Develop leadership, communication, and public speaking skills
YouthLAB members create presentations and campaigns for their high school peers, focused on topics including depression, anxiety, LGBTQ2S+ issues, disordered eating, bullying, and relationship violence. If you’re ready to make a real difference in your community. For additional information click here.
Applications for YouthLAB 2021/2022 cohort (beginning in October 2021) are open now. Please click here for an application form.
The YouthLAB 2019/2020 cohort produced an amazing art book that provides a creative illustration of their youth-lead work in addressing mental health issues facing young people. Eleven youth attending North Shore Schools created this book to share their artistic reflections about wellness and mental health topics such as anxiety, depression, trauma and social justice concerns with their peers. Click here to view and download this book. The 202/2021 YouthLAB created a video, check back here to see it later in May.

PROUD2BE
We created our PROUD2BE programs, because we know that those of us who identify as LGBTQ2S+ need a safe place to talk about how that feels – and how hard it can be sometimes. We also offer help to parents and family members if they’re having a hard time, too.

The Adolescent & Children’s Empowerment Program provides services for children between 3 & 18 years of age who have witnessed or experienced abuse, threats or violence in the home. The ACE program is open to children who reside on the North Shore. The ACE program provides assessments, referrals and age appropriate support groups for children and adolescents, individual counselling for children & adolescents, support to parents, group and individual counselling for parents (as time permits) and prevention activities for schools. Through the ACE Program, young people are provided services in a safe, supportive environment where they can express and explore their feelings through art, play and discussion. Participants share with their peers, learn new coping strategies and are empowered through their experiences.

A multi-disciplinary and evidence-informed approach to support 13-19 year old youth who are in need of more urgent or intensive mental health and/or substance use services. Outreach workers can provide services in the community.

YURT is for youth experiencing the following:
• Acute disturbance in mood, thinking or behavior which might manifest with suicidal ideation, mood problems or psychotic symptoms
• Moderate to severe primary substance use with or without mental illness
• Functional challenges associated with housing, income and health
• Difficulties accessing health and social services

Westcoast Family Centres contribute to the healthy development of children by providing services to strengthen the relationship between children and families and between families and their communities.

Free groups are offered to help strengthen existing parenting skills, to meet the developmental needs of children, and to enhance interpersonal skills related to problem solving, communication, conflict resolution and self-determination.

Their centre on the North Shore provides intensive, in-home parent support and education programs to families and children (aged 0–18) in that community.

These services, available to families referred through MCFD, provide goal-oriented home based services to prevent out of home placements and reduce risks within families.

We also help children who have been in care reconnect with their families. Families are assigned a Family Counsellor who can respond quickly if needed, provide therapeutic and educational interventions and connect the family to professional and community-based resources.

These services help family members develop the resources, goals and skills they need to keep their family together.

Individual Family Preservation and Reunification Services are services provided directly to clients by a Family Counsellor and are delivered primarily in the home. A Family Counsellor provides support to families through assessment, parenting skills, counselling, connecting to communities and addressing concrete needs.

Additional specialized therapeutic interventions may be provided by another clinician working directly with the Family Counsellor. The Family Counsellor and Resource Worker support families by providing a range of services to address a variety of needs.

Referrals are often made to contracted services deemed necessary, including homemaker services (practical training and support for parents’ in-home management and routines); child and youth care one-to-one workers (available for children up to 15 as well as teens in continuing care); doula services (in-home help for expectant and new parents); mediation (primarily parent/teen).

This program nurtures the self-esteem of girls by matching them with caring female volunteers who offer them educational support and academic assistance. With the support of a Study Buddy tutor, Little Sisters, ages 7-17, are encouraged and equipped to improve their educational performance and meet their academic goals, which contributes to their overall self-esteem. Study Buddies meet for one hour once a week for a minimum of six months and tutoring sessions take place at a mutually agreeable location after school or on weekends.

Little Sisters can be referred by parents/guardians, counsellors, social workers, teachers, etc. Little Sisters may come from various family backgrounds, including single parent or two parent families, temporary or permanent care, etc.

Big Sisters are women (age 19 or older) who spend 2-4 hours a week for a minimum of one year with their Little Sister (age 7-17) in a one to one mentoring friendship. Each Big & Little Sister match gets together once a week to participate in fun activities they both enjoy such as crafts, sports, going to the beach, watching movies or simply hanging out and spending time together! Big Sisters group activities are also offered each month.

Little Sisters can be referred by parents/guardians, counsellors, social workers, teachers, etc. Little Sisters may come from a variety of family backgrounds including single parent or two parent families, temporary or permanent care.

Capilano Youth Services provides services to youth age 10 to 24, with particular focus on the potentially at risk youth population. Our Youth Outreach Workers meet with youth in schools and in the community to provide drug and alcohol prevention awareness, advocacy, support and to facilitate referrals to other agencies and access to services. One of our primary goals is to create opportunities to identify youth potentially at-risk and provide support to the youth and their families. Capilano Youth Services offers the following programs:

•One to One Support
•Outreach in Schools
•Outreach in the Community

Capilano Youth Services are available to all youth in the Upper and Lower Capilano area. However, please contact us if you require services in another geographic area, as we may be able to provide a referral to other community organizations.

Whatever is a drop-in program for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth and offers a supportive, caring environment in which to hang out and be heard. This drop-in takes place at West Vancouver’s newest youth space – the Youth Hub at Park Royal Mall. The Youth Hub is a great place to hang out, watch movies, play pool, and more.

Services are available in English and Farsi

If you or your loved one is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. If the situation involves imminent safety risks or a possible threat of violence, police may be required to respond.

PACT is a mobile civilian-led team that will respond to crisis calls related to mental health and/or substance use on the North Shore. The program pairs a mental health professional and a peer worker to provide trauma-informed, culturally safe support to youth aged 13+ or adults in the North Shore.  Call 1-888-261-7228 or text 778-839-1831.

PACT is your local support team that you can reach out to when you or someone around you is in distress due to:

• thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• family members experiencing challenges
• substance use
• loss of reality
• feelings of hopelessness or despair
• social isolation and loneliness
• fear, anxiety, and depression
• other mental health-related emergencies

How we can help:

• Offer support to you or your loved one over the phone, text, or in-person wherever you feel comfortable
• Listen without judgement and provide a safe space for you to share your story and tell us what is going on
• Provide crisis counselling and de-escalation
• Advocate for you and accompany you to emergency departments, police stations, or community organizations
• Connect you to the appropriate resources, services and supports in the community to meet your underlying needs
• Provide short-term follow-up care to you and your family after a crisis event

What we cannot do:

• Transport you or your loved one from one place to another in the staff vehicle (if needed, transportation will be provided through taxi services)
• Perform psychological assessments to diagnose mental illnesses or write prescriptions for medication
• Make referrals to psychiatrists or other medical specialists for specific treatments for mental or physical health conditions (but we can help you to access primary care)
• Fast-track applications for housing, income or disability assistance, or mental health services.

iYos provides outreach services for youth (ages 13-19) experiencing urgent and emergent mental health and substance use issues. Youth accessing iYos may be experiencing: acute disturbances in mood, thinking or behaviour which might manifest with suicidal ideation, mood problems or psychotic symptoms; moderate to severe primary substance use with or without mental illness; functional challenges associated with housing, income and health; and difficulties accessing health and social services. iYos can provide crisis intervention, short-term counselling, education, Intensive Case Management (ICM) services, and assessments. Additional support and consultation to parents regarding their youth in crisis is also offered. iYOS is available 7 days per week for urgent matters with staff available weekdays 8:30 am to 11:00 pm, and weekends 11:00 am to 11:00 pm.

Harvest Project is a community-based urban relief organization and registered Canadian charity. We connect with more than 1000 people each month – as we provide one-to-one client-coaching and active-listening, a rent bank, a grocery-support program, clothing supports, assistance for workforce re-entry, food-recovery and redistribution, and our retail Clothes For Change Thrift Boutique. All supported by volunteers and donors from every corner of the North Shore.

Harvest Project serves Metro-Vancouver’s North Shore, ‘extending a hand up’ to those in need. We provide assistance to residents from Deep Cove in the east to Horseshoe Bay in the west. Our vision is to enlarge our work as a compassionate presence for North Shore residents, by North Shore residents. We’re working to help the North Shore become the most inclusive, healthy and diverse community in Canada. We aim to collaborate with the other excellent services and not-for-profit agencies operating in our community.

In one of the wealthiest regions in Canada, critical family needs are often hidden and services are scarce for those who find themselves in desperate times. About 1 in 5 North Shore families are headed by a lone-parent – representing thousands of people. These families, and many others, are at-risk of losing access to physical, social and economic resources and opportunities.

Since 1993, Harvest Project has been reaching out to those who are experiencing extreme challenges with family break-downs, illness, job loss, and poverty. Our founder, David Foster, was a young West Vancouver business-person who fell on hard-times, found himself ‘on the street’, and was offered assistance by several local churches and other organizations. He came to embrace a Christian faith and felt inspired to begin Harvest Project as an expression of the Biblical principles of solidarity with those in poverty, caring for marginalized people, and seeking justice for neighbours in-need.

Capilano Community Services offers the following for youth programs:

• One to one support
• Outreach in schools
• Outreach in the community
• Safe & fun drop-in programs

Capilano youth services are available to all youth in the Upper and Lower Capilano, Pemberton, Pemberton Heights, and Norgate area. However, please contact them if you require services in another geographic area, as they may be able to provide a referral to other community organizations.

Living Systems Counselling services include individual, couple and family counselling as well as play therapy or pastoral counselling. They offer affordable rates and minimum wait times at convenient locations.

Living Systems Counselling utilizes Bowen family systems theory and therapy to address a wide variety of challenges. This counselling approach can help you think more clearly about yourself and your relationships.

To inquire about an appointment contact 604 926 5496. No doctor’s referral is required.

As a non-profit organization they offer counselling to all, regardless of age, sexual orientation, religious beliefs or income levels.

Through fusion of recreational activities,”STEPS” encourages youth to interact in a nurturing and non-judgemental environment while promoting healthy living habits. Activities like hiking, yoga and laser tag build self confidence and strengthen both social and personal fitness goals. The program touches on all aspects of wellness aiming to equip participants with understanding, skills and strategies for living and maintaining a mentally healthy lifestyle.

Currently the STEPS Program runs September to June. STEPS youth meet weekly. Communication between program coordinator and participants is encouraged on an open group chat webpage keeping youth connected and supported throughout the week. One-on-one meet-ups are also offered through the coordinator as needed. Activities and locations vary, bringing new STEPS adventures weekly.

For more information contact STEPS Youth Program Coordinator, Sydney Mattu.

Hollyburn’s Victim Support Program provides a range of support services free of charge to women, children, youth, and men, who have been victims of:

Relationship violence
Family violence
Sexualized assault (recent or historic)
Criminal harassment.

We provide service to residents of North and West Vancouver, including Bowen Island. We are also able to support individuals outside these areas who are a victim of the above crimes and the matter is scheduled in North Vancouver Provincial Court.

If necessary, services can be provided during non-business hours and/or in a community setting in order to meet your unique circumstances and needs. Coordinated links with multi-language services will be available when required.

Hollyburn also offers fee for service counselling for individuals who have access to Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP) funding. For information on our CVAP registered counsellor, please see the Counselling section on our website.

Individuals may refer themselves or access this services through a referral from a family member, community professional, police officer, or police-based victim service.

West Vancouver Police Victim Services Program provides information, support and referrals to victims/witnesses and their families of crime and/or tragedy.

Support – provide short term support to victims/witnesses and their families of crime and/or tragedy.

Information – Provide information on the status of the police investigation and the court process.

Referrals – Provide information on referrals to Community agencies and services.

Court Support – Provide ongoing support and accompany upon request, victims/witnesses and their families through the Court process.

Assistance – Provide assistance with the Voluntary applications and forms; Victim Impact Statements, Crime Victim Assistance Program and Restitution forms.

You are not alone.

Pathways Serious Mental Illness Society  is here to help you cope – with support, information, education, and advocacy.

Pathways consists of family members and friends of those with mental illness who know what others are going through, and can help by sharing their experience.

CMHA offers clinically directed mental health and addiction services for youth and their families. Individual, group and recreational counselling/therapy available. Self-referral.

The North Shore Stress and Anxiety Clinic offers effective help for adults, parents, teens, children, couples, and families. They will help you better understand your problems, develop a treatment plan that meets your needs, and teach you skills to make lasting positive changes. Their diverse team of psychologists and psychiatrists have the compassion, training, and expertise to provide high-quality assessments and therapy that works. They use state of the art cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based treatment approaches to treat everything from day-to-day stress, anxiety, and low mood to anxiety disorders, clinical depression, and a range of other problems.

The team also conducts psychoeducational assessments and other specialized evaluations (e.g., medical-legal and disability assessments). Their high quality psychoeducational assessments for children, adolescents, and adults are designed to examine potential learning challenges, symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), or giftedness and to assist with school and life planning.

Private services for children, youth and families with ADHD and addiction issues. Access to clinical counselling, group and individual therapy. Fee for service.

This program is offered in partnership with Westview Elementary and Carson Graham Secondary. It is a friendship-based program which matches male & female high school buddies (grades 9-12) with elementary school-aged children. The buddies spend time on school grounds 1 hour each week during the school year doing a variety of non-academic, fun activities together. The program offers unique cooking classes at Carson Graham where matches learn to make nutritious meals together.

This program matches elementary school-aged boys and girls with local male and female adult volunteers. This is a friendship-based program that provides a mentor for 1 hour per week at a child’s elementary school. Activities range from playing games and sports to doing crafts, enjoying hobbies, reading or just hanging out.

This group meets the first Monday of every month at John Braithwaite Community Centre and is only for young adults between the ages of 18 to 24 years old. This group provides a mix of social and skill development. Young adults are able to socialize with other peers their age playing or enjoying snacks. In addition, youth workers will be present to provide mentorship and support around areas such as employment, housing, relationships, referrals, social isolation, etc.

BBGV matches adult volunteers with boys and girls aged 7 – 14 in a variety of mentoring programs. Together they spend between 1 – 4 hours a week together doing fun activities such as soccer, cycling, painting, playing board games and flying kites! The programs big brothers offers to children promote the pursuit of healthy lifestyles and mentors play an important role in encouraging children to reach their full potential. Big and Little Brothers are matched by personality and location.

Training and support is provided by the agency throughout the time that volunteers and children are in the programs.

Parkgate Community Services Society’s Youth Outreach Workers will meet youth almost anywhere at almost any time. If you are youth and you feel that you need to talk to someone right away, contact one of the Youth Outreach Workers below. If they are not immediately available, they will connect you with another team member, youth worker or appropriate resource.

How can Youth Outreach Workers help you? They can assist you in the following ways:
– Help you take charge of your life
– Connect you with what is happening for youth in the community
– Teach you skills that will help you at school, at work and at home
– Show you how to accomplish your dreams
– Provide workshops on topics like leadership training, drugs and alcohol, etc.
– Help you with family problems
– Help you with girl or guy problems
– Stick up for you when no one else will
– Help you with your problems, no matter how big or small, when you don’t seem to have anywhere else to turn

Youth clinics offer free and confidential drop in services for youth. At a clinic, you can talk to a health care provider about the health issues that are important to you.

Services vary depending on which clinic you go to. Some of the free and confidential services that may be offered include:

STI/HIV testing & treatment
Free condoms and water-based lubricant
Birth control (free or low cost)
Emergency contraception
Pap tests
Free or low-cost birth control options
Pregnancy testing and counselling
General counselling and health information
Immunizations
Smoking Cessation
Mental health and addictions referrals

A Care Card is not required.

Services:

• STI testing & treatment, and partner follow up
• Birth control options
• pills, patch, ring, implant, & the shot
• Emergency contraception, including pill
• HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)
• Pregnancy options counselling & referrals
• Harm reduction, including free condoms and naloxone kits
• Immunizations (HPV, Mpox, Hep A & B)

Counselling
We can help you when life gets hard or you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, bullying, disordered eating, sexual abuse, relationship violence, coming out, gender identity, and more. Our counsellors have the training and experience to ensure you feel safe, comfortable, and supported.
If your parents can’t afford the counselling fees or you don’t want to tell them about your sessions, we can help. Our intake counsellor can tell you more about the ways we can support you.
We also provide:
• Free transportation, as needed, to and from our office
• Free drinks and snacks during your counselling sessions
We know you’re busy with school, work, and life in general, so our office is open:
• Weeknights until 8:00 pm
• Saturdays from 9:00am – 4:00pm

Embody
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, or disordered eating of any kind, Embody has education, resources, and inspiration that can help.
We also encourage you to check out Love Our Bodies, Love Ourselves movement. Join the conversation on Facebook , Twitter or Instagram and connect with other B.C. youth who are talking about what it means to have a healthy body image.

YouthLAB
Every year, a small group of North Shore high school students (grades 10-12), come together as volunteers to form the Youth Leadership Advisory Board (YouthLAB). If you are interested in public speaking, writing, and mental health, we’d love to connect with you.
YouthLAB members:
• Meet two evenings each month (weekday evening to be determined), from 4:30 – 6:30pm (snacks included when meetings take place in-person)
• Earn up to 50 hours of community service from September through May
• Learn about mental health issues from our professional counsellors
• Advocate for the needs of at-risk youth in our community
• Develop leadership, communication, and public speaking skills
YouthLAB members create presentations and campaigns for their high school peers, focused on topics including depression, anxiety, LGBTQ2S+ issues, disordered eating, bullying, and relationship violence. If you’re ready to make a real difference in your community. For additional information click here.
Applications for YouthLAB 2021/2022 cohort (beginning in October 2021) are open now. Please click here for an application form.
The YouthLAB 2019/2020 cohort produced an amazing art book that provides a creative illustration of their youth-lead work in addressing mental health issues facing young people. Eleven youth attending North Shore Schools created this book to share their artistic reflections about wellness and mental health topics such as anxiety, depression, trauma and social justice concerns with their peers. Click here to view and download this book. The 202/2021 YouthLAB created a video, check back here to see it later in May.

PROUD2BE
We created our PROUD2BE programs, because we know that those of us who identify as LGBTQ2S+ need a safe place to talk about how that feels – and how hard it can be sometimes. We also offer help to parents and family members if they’re having a hard time, too.

The Adolescent & Children’s Empowerment Program provides services for children between 3 & 18 years of age who have witnessed or experienced abuse, threats or violence in the home. The ACE program is open to children who reside on the North Shore. The ACE program provides assessments, referrals and age appropriate support groups for children and adolescents, individual counselling for children & adolescents, support to parents, group and individual counselling for parents (as time permits) and prevention activities for schools. Through the ACE Program, young people are provided services in a safe, supportive environment where they can express and explore their feelings through art, play and discussion. Participants share with their peers, learn new coping strategies and are empowered through their experiences.

Parkgate Community Services Society (PCSS) employs two full-time Seymour Youth Outreach Workers and a full-time Youth Services Supervisor (funded by DNV). PCSS operates and provides services through the Youth Centre at Parkgate Community Centre.

Big Sisters are women (age 19 or older) who spend 2-4 hours a week for a minimum of one year with their Little Sister (age 7-17) in a one to one mentoring friendship. Each Big & Little Sister match gets together once a week to participate in fun activities they both enjoy such as crafts, sports, going to the beach, watching movies or simply hanging out and spending time together! Big Sisters group activities are also offered each month.

Little Sisters can be referred by parents/guardians, counsellors, social workers, teachers, etc. Little Sisters may come from a variety of family backgrounds including single parent or two parent families, temporary or permanent care.

If you are in crisis, or just need someone to listen, please call on North Shore Neighbourhood House (NSNH). Their youth outreach workers are trained to provide support, guidance and referrals in a non-judgmental way. Their goal is to make you feel safe, supported and respected.

NSNH outreach workers can help you with:
•One-to-one support, temporary or ongoing
•Drug and alcohol education
•School problems
•Family issues
•Job and resume skills
•Providing advocacy and information
•Referrals to other services
•And lots more!

They are also available for group presentations. Please contact one of the Youth Outreach Workers for more information.

Capilano Youth Services provides services to youth age 10 to 24, with particular focus on the potentially at risk youth population. Our Youth Outreach Workers meet with youth in schools and in the community to provide drug and alcohol prevention awareness, advocacy, support and to facilitate referrals to other agencies and access to services. One of our primary goals is to create opportunities to identify youth potentially at-risk and provide support to the youth and their families. Capilano Youth Services offers the following programs:

•One to One Support
•Outreach in Schools
•Outreach in the Community

Capilano Youth Services are available to all youth in the Upper and Lower Capilano area. However, please contact us if you require services in another geographic area, as we may be able to provide a referral to other community organizations.

SPECTRUM SKATEBOARD SOCIETY IS ALL ABOUT HAVING A  FUN, SAFE, AND INCLUSIVE SKATEBOARDING EXPERIENCE.

All of our instructors are Level 1 certified skateboard instructors with the International Skateboard Certification Program (ISCP).  During our lessons, we not only teach skateboarding skills, but we also teach how to positively communicate with the other skateboard park users, as well as how to skateboard socially with your fellow skate camp friends.  Click the button below for available lessons and camps.  At this time all lessons and camps are located in North Vancouver.

Spectrum has volunteer opportunities available for skateboard instructor helpers and general volunteers to help with set-up and clean up.  Skateboard skills are a bonus but not required.

Power To Be began in 1998 with an idea: help people living with a disability or barrier access nature. The idea grew into a community, connecting participants to adventures and supporters to opportunities, collectively redefining our definition of ability.

Based in Victoria and Vancouver, we are a non-profit organization that believes everyone belongs in nature. We believe finances shouldn’t prevent anyone from accessing nature, and we work to remove cognitive, physical and social barriers to the outdoors, supporting participants to explore who they are and what they are capable of with the support of our staff, volunteers and each other.

Services are available in English and Farsi

If you or your loved one is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. If the situation involves imminent safety risks or a possible threat of violence, police may be required to respond.

PACT is a mobile civilian-led team that will respond to crisis calls related to mental health and/or substance use on the North Shore. The program pairs a mental health professional and a peer worker to provide trauma-informed, culturally safe support to youth aged 13+ or adults in the North Shore.  Call 1-888-261-7228 or text 778-839-1831.

PACT is your local support team that you can reach out to when you or someone around you is in distress due to:

• thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• family members experiencing challenges
• substance use
• loss of reality
• feelings of hopelessness or despair
• social isolation and loneliness
• fear, anxiety, and depression
• other mental health-related emergencies

How we can help:

• Offer support to you or your loved one over the phone, text, or in-person wherever you feel comfortable
• Listen without judgement and provide a safe space for you to share your story and tell us what is going on
• Provide crisis counselling and de-escalation
• Advocate for you and accompany you to emergency departments, police stations, or community organizations
• Connect you to the appropriate resources, services and supports in the community to meet your underlying needs
• Provide short-term follow-up care to you and your family after a crisis event

What we cannot do:

• Transport you or your loved one from one place to another in the staff vehicle (if needed, transportation will be provided through taxi services)
• Perform psychological assessments to diagnose mental illnesses or write prescriptions for medication
• Make referrals to psychiatrists or other medical specialists for specific treatments for mental or physical health conditions (but we can help you to access primary care)
• Fast-track applications for housing, income or disability assistance, or mental health services.

Foundry North Shore is a place where any youth or parent in our community can find easy access to the help they need, when they need it. It is an integrated youth and family initiative that transforms how mental health and substance use services are delivered on the North Shore; providing early intervention to support young peoples’ well being.

Hosted by Vancouver Coastal Health, Foundry North Shore unites over 10 partner organizations that work together to address the health care needs of youth ages 12 to 24 and their families.

Drop In Counselling Hours
Monday & Thursday 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Tuesday/ Wednesday 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Medical Services Drop In
Monday to Thursday 2:30 pm – 5:00 pm

COVID-19 LGBTQAI2S+ Resource Guide by Vancouver PRIDE

We are creating a resource guide targeted at LGBTQAI2S+ communities – though most resources are helpful for everyone – to get through the upcoming weeks and months. From food banks to digital events to employment information, we want to help you ride out the pandemic. We are going to get through this. Together.

15th Street Youth Services provides substance misuse (or concurrent) outpatient counseling services to youth (13 – 18 years old) and their families throughout the North Shore. Services are voluntary, youth-friendly, client centered, culturally relevant, free, confidential and grounded in best practice. Family participation, though not mandatory, is encouraged.

Services provided included:

Psychosocial assessments
Individual counseling
Family consultation, coaching and therapy
Therapeutic groups
Outreach
Parent consultation / groups
Psychiatric assessments, consultations & medication management
Transition planning
Referrals

Sex Sense is a free confidential sexual health referral and information service open Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Pacific time). The team of registered nurses, clinical counsellors, and sex educators offer information and resources for people living in British Columbia, Canada.

To have your questions answered, you have two options:

– Call at 1-800-SEX-SENSE (1-800-739-7367) throughout BC or 604-731-7803 in the Lower Mainland

– Submit your question through a form on their website.

You can ask about sex, sexuality, and other hot topics, including:

– birth control and emergency contraception
– pregnancy options
– abortion
– sexually transmitted infections (STIs/STDs)
– Pap tests/Pelvic exams
– sexual pleasure
– and more!

Through fusion of recreational activities,”STEPS” encourages youth to interact in a nurturing and non-judgemental environment while promoting healthy living habits. Activities like hiking, yoga and laser tag build self confidence and strengthen both social and personal fitness goals. The program touches on all aspects of wellness aiming to equip participants with understanding, skills and strategies for living and maintaining a mentally healthy lifestyle.

Currently the STEPS Program runs September to June. STEPS youth meet weekly. Communication between program coordinator and participants is encouraged on an open group chat webpage keeping youth connected and supported throughout the week. One-on-one meet-ups are also offered through the coordinator as needed. Activities and locations vary, bringing new STEPS adventures weekly.

For more information contact STEPS Youth Program Coordinator, Sydney Mattu.

Hollyburn’s Victim Support Program provides a range of support services free of charge to women, children, youth, and men, who have been victims of:

Relationship violence
Family violence
Sexualized assault (recent or historic)
Criminal harassment.

We provide service to residents of North and West Vancouver, including Bowen Island. We are also able to support individuals outside these areas who are a victim of the above crimes and the matter is scheduled in North Vancouver Provincial Court.

If necessary, services can be provided during non-business hours and/or in a community setting in order to meet your unique circumstances and needs. Coordinated links with multi-language services will be available when required.

Hollyburn also offers fee for service counselling for individuals who have access to Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP) funding. For information on our CVAP registered counsellor, please see the Counselling section on our website.

Individuals may refer themselves or access this services through a referral from a family member, community professional, police officer, or police-based victim service.

Multidisciplinary team consisting of Youth Concurrent Disorder clinicians, Mental Health Clinicians, Psychiatrists, Behavior Support Workers, and Alcohol and Drug Prevention Educators. Referring problems include substance use, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, ADHD and other mental health issues.

Mental health services are accessed through the Ministry of Children and Family Development centralized intake. Referrals for Addiction Services are made directly to the VCH North Shore Child and Youth Mental Health Program.

– Do you worry about your weight?
– Do you think you are fat when others say you are too thin?
– Do you worry that you have lost control over how much you eat?
– Would you say that food dominates your life?
– Do you feel guilty after eating?

If you answered “YES” to any of these questions, you may want to contact The North Shore Youth Eating Disorders Program.

For youth 11 – 18 years of age who live on the North Shore, Bowen Island, Sunshine Coast, Powell River or Sea to Sky area. Their teams includes a counsellor, a specialist paediatrician and a dietitian who can help
support you and develop an individualized treatment plan to meet your needs.
You may refer yourself, or a parent/guardian, counsellor, doctor, or someone you trust may refer you.

Health Connection is an Adult Service (19+): provides primary care services to individuals who do not have a regular family doctor or nurse practitioner, and face complex medical, mental health, addiction, and/or socioeconomic needs (e.g., housing, income, access to food). No scheduled appointment or formal referral is necessary to be seen at the Clinic, but scheduled appointments are available.

The Clinic team includes family physicians, a nurse practitioners, substance use nurse, a chronic disease nurse coordinator and a medical office assistants. In addition, the clinic is collaborating with community agencies to support clients who require assistance with non-medical issues such as housing, income and access to food.

This clinic is a partnership between the North Shore Division of Family Practice and Vancouver Coastal Health.

Hollyburn Family Services provides a number of community-based services to youth and families on the North Shore. Hollyburn has skilled Youth Workers and Family Counsellors who assist youth and families in a variety of programs.

Youth clinics offer free and confidential drop in services for youth. At a clinic, you can talk to a health care provider about the health issues that are important to you.

Services vary depending on which clinic you go to. Some of the free and confidential services that may be offered include:

STI/HIV testing & treatment
Free condoms and water-based lubricant
Birth control (free or low cost)
Emergency contraception
Pap tests
Free or low-cost birth control options
Pregnancy testing and counselling
General counselling and health information
Immunizations
Smoking Cessation
Mental health and addictions referrals

A Care Card is not required.

Services:

• STI testing & treatment, and partner follow up
• Birth control options
• pills, patch, ring, implant, & the shot
• Emergency contraception, including pill
• HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)
• Pregnancy options counselling & referrals
• Harm reduction, including free condoms and naloxone kits
• Immunizations (HPV, Mpox, Hep A & B)

After 20 years, we’ve opened a new chapter in the story of Jessie’s Legacy. Family Services of the North Shore is pleased to announce that Jessie’s Legacy Eating Disorders Prevention and Awareness program is now Embody. Our new program name and visual identity reflect a renewed focus on prevention. We equip BC parents, caregivers, and professionals with evidence-based information to support young people before they develop an eating disorder. Embody remains a provincial program of Family Services of the North Shore, and one of the seven BC Partners for Mental Health and Substance Use Information.

This program provides eating disorders prevention education, resources and support for youth, families, educators and professionals. Embody services and resources are primarily web-based; the program provides media watch, online and telephone support, and offers presentations and workshops all over the Lower Mainland.

Embody is also the leader for Provincial Eating Disorders Awareness (PEDAW), a province-wide effort to raise awareness around prevention, early intervention and treatment of eating disorders as well as media literacy, resiliency, healthy body image and self-esteem. Like the Facebook page to join and participate in Provincial Eating Disorder Awareness Week events.

‘Love Our Bodies, Love Ourselves’, is Embody’s year round social media campaign that believes your worth can’t be measured by the numbers on the scale, the size of your clothes, or the reflection in the mirror.

Join the movement:
Twitter & Instagram: @loveourbodies #loveourbodies
Facebook: loveourbodiesloveourselves
Youtube: loveourbodies

Whatever is a drop-in program for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth and offers a supportive, caring environment in which to hang out and be heard. This drop-in takes place at West Vancouver’s newest youth space – the Youth Hub at Park Royal Mall. The Youth Hub is a great place to hang out, watch movies, play pool, and more.

INCLUSIVITY exists to help you manage diversity within your company or community. We provide a range of services to help you develop best practices, remain up to date, innovate, and engage your employees or community members to create the best outcomes for all stakeholders.

Are you a young adult and actively looking for employment?

Are you an immigrant youth or young adult age 30 or younger and a permanent resident, Canadian Citizen or a Protected Person? Do you have intermediate English language skills? Are you unemployed and non-EI eligible? If so, join the Retail Connections Program now!

This program offers:
– 4 weeks of daily group-training sessions including:
– Vocational assessment
– Job search skills and education coaching
– Employment connections
– Retail specific training
Industry recognized short term training certificates:
– WorldHost Customer Service
– Food Safe Level 1
– First Aid Level 1
– 8 weeks of one-to-one coaching and job-search support.

Location: YWCA WorkBC Employment Services Centre (address below)

Offered 5 times per year – please contact for more information!

This program is government funded and FREE of charge!

The Impact North Shore Youth Department has been serving school aged youth and emerging adults on the north shore since 2001. Through a hands on approach, their diverse and experienced staff are committed to creating safe spaces of engagement and growth.

INS’s programming meets youths’ needs wherever they may be in their journey, either through group work or one-on-one support. They strive to promote inclusion, community, diversity, education, and volunteerism.

Sindy is the Youth Coordinator & Facilitator at Impact North Shore. One-on-one support is available all year round.

The Impact North Shore Youth Department has been serving school aged youth and emerging adults on the north shore since 2001. Through a hands on approach, their diverse and experienced staff are committed to creating safe spaces of engagement and growth.

INS programming meets youths’ needs wherever they may be in their journey, either through group work or one-on-one support. They strive to promote inclusion, community, diversity, education, and volunteerism.

One-on-one support is available all year round.

The Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) Program is a school-based outreach program that helps newcomer students and their families settle into their North and West Vancouver school and community. SWIS Workers meet with students and families one-on-one to provide support and to facilitate meetings between families, students and school staff. Workshops are held to provide information and support for students and families in a group setting.

Workshop topics for parents include:
• Back-to-School Essentials for parents of elementary school students
• Back-to-School Essentials for parents of high school students
• English Language Learning Orientation
• Orientation to Report Cards/grading system, etc.
• Post-Secondary Education Information
• Information session on Graduation Requirements
• Transition to High School Information
• Summer Learning Information
• North Shore Summer Activities

Youth Workshops/Programs:
• Back-to-School Essentials for elementary school/high school students
• Expression! (for youth aged 8-12 years)
• NEONology Leadership Training (for high school youth)
• Girls Group (for females in high school)

SWIS services for parents are available in Farsi, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Tagalog, French and English. There is access to interpretation services for other languages as needed. The youth programs are offered in English.

Impact North Shore (formerly North Shore Multicultural Society) helps youth and their families learn about and understand the systems and services available in Canada. They are a not-for-profit agency providing a full range of individual and group services including: settlement information and orientation, English language, employment and diversity services. Their mission is to help you achieve a working knowledge of Canadian social, economic and cultural systems.

The INS Youth Department has been serving school ages youth and emerging adults on the North Shore since 2001. Through a hands-on approach, diverse and experienced staff are committed to creating safe spaces of engagement and growth.

Programming meets youths’ needs wherever they may be in their journey, either through group work or one-on-one support. They strive to promote inclusion, community, diversity, education and volunteerism.

Offers bilingual (Farsi-English) clinical counselling for all youth and their parents in addition to groups on healthy relationships, mindfulness and mental health issues. Therapists are specialized in trauma treatment.

Various programs are offered including: individual and family based counselling, support groups for everyone on Saturdays, parenting workshops, Family Integration program (which has various topics including emotion management etc.).

Neonology is an award-winning series of workshops that focuses on demonstrating the power we have to stop discrimination and racism in our communities. The Neonology program has been presented to over 12,000 elementary and secondary school students since 2009.

This program offers: workshops to youth in schools (Gr. 6 & 7 and Gr. 9 & 10); youth leadership camp and training; and workshops for teachers, staff, youth workers and parents. This program supports participants to explore their ideas and roles in creating racism-free and inclusive environments.

Neonology Programs include:
– Neonology workshop for youth in grades 6 & 7 and grades 9 & 10
– Neonology for adults
– Summer Youth Leadership Camp

The Immigrant Family Program supports both teens and their newcomer parents to successfully manage their settlement into a new community.

Get Connected provides one-on-one education and employment support, group workshops, targeted conversation practice, settlement support, group outings, and connections to community.

Various different programs and workshop are taking place throughout the year and one-on-one support service is available all year around.

For more information, contact Youth Outreach Worker.

Whatever is a drop-in program for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth and offers a supportive, caring environment in which to hang out and be heard. This drop-in takes place at West Vancouver’s newest youth space – the Youth Hub at Park Royal Mall. The Youth Hub is a great place to hang out, watch movies, play pool, and more.

INCLUSIVITY exists to help you manage diversity within your company or community. We provide a range of services to help you develop best practices, remain up to date, innovate, and engage your employees or community members to create the best outcomes for all stakeholders.

COVID-19 LGBTQAI2S+ Resource Guide by Vancouver PRIDE

We are creating a resource guide targeted at LGBTQAI2S+ communities – though most resources are helpful for everyone – to get through the upcoming weeks and months. From food banks to digital events to employment information, we want to help you ride out the pandemic. We are going to get through this. Together.

This group for parents runs weekly for the entire year, focusing on building specific resiliency skills within parents and on providing resources and support that are specific to parenting gender diverse youth. Parents will be able to speak with other parents that are struggling with the same issues, learn how to support their youth, and gain more information regarding this diverse community.

Drop-in group is facilitated by Family Support Workers trained by Elisabeth Cooke of Inclusivity (www.diversitymanaged.com) and Dr. Melady Preece, Registered Psychologist (drmeladypreece.com).

No cost, no registration required.

Prism is Vancouver Coastal Health’s education, information and referral service for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, Two-Spirit and queer + (LGBT2Q+) communities.

What does Prism do?

Prism does not provide direct client services, but will help put you in contact with someone who does!

Prism provides workshops and training for healthcare and social service providers, students and service users on inclusion, diversity and promoting health and wellness for the LGBT2Q+ communities.

Prism refers individuals to LGBT2Q+ groups, counselling, resource information and services in the community.

Prism also supports staff at Vancouver Coastal Health to increase skills and knowledge in working with members of LGBT2Q+ populations through training , networking and clinical supervision.

Catherine White Holman Wellness Centre provides low-barrier legal and wellness services to Two-Spirit, transgender, and gender non-conforming people. Our services include hormone and surgery readiness assessments, ADHD assessments, support with ID changes including updating name and gender marker, and legal advice. Our services are provided virtually via Zoom to everyone living in British Columbia regardless in status. In-person appointments are available if needed.

Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) is responsible for the provincial coordination of transgender health services in BC. The Transgender Health Information Program (THiP), a BC-wide information hub providing information about gender affirming care and supports, has integrated with the Trans Care BC program at PHSA.

Trans Care BC is now offering services previously provided via THiP through its care coordination team.

Trans Care BC’s care coordination team helps connect people in BC to gender-affirming health and wellness supports. Based out of Vancouver, the small team includes health navigators, nurses, peers, and admin support staff. The team has access to the medical director (GP) for consultation as needed.

A drop-in group for North Shore youth to talk about Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation.

This group runs weekly and focuses on supporting youth regarding their gender identity and sexual orientation and any other concerns or struggles. Drop-in group is facilitated by Master’s Level Child and Youth therapists trained by Elisabeth Cooke of Inclusivity (www.diversitymanaged.com) and Dr. Melady Preece, Registered Psychologist (drmeladypreece.com).

No cost. No registration required.

More info at:
www.facebook.com/genderdiversitysupport

Trans Specialty Care offers knowledgeable and specialized care to transgender and gender diverse persons living in the Vancouver Coastal Health region. We work in teams including nurses, counsellors, physicians, nurse practitioners, and social workers. We are a consultation service and work in collaboration with your family doctor.

If you do not have a family doctor (GP) or nurse practitioner (NP) we can help you find options for primary care.

What services are provided?
•Hormone initiation and stabilization
•Surgical care planning and referrals
•Pre-operative information and education
•Post-operative nursing care
•Limited counselling
•Hormone injection supplies
•Assistance with identity document changes

Further information regarding the above services and therapies including a comprehensive list of support groups can also be found through Transcare BC.

CampOUT! is for queer, trans, Two-Spirit, questioning, and allied youth ages 14-21 from across BC & the Yukon. The camp is held on Gambier Island, unceded Coast Salish territories. In affiliation with the University of British Columbia, the camp provides opportunities to develop leadership skills, build self-esteem, foster hope and resilience, and connect with resources to support health and well-being (physical, mental, social, sexual, educational, and spiritual).

CampOUT! provides a supportive space for youth to celebrate and be celebrated for who they are.

RainCity Housing and Support Society have opened a housing and support program specifically for homeless LGBTQ2S* youth.

If you are a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, Two-Spirit, Plus (LGBTQ2S*) youth and would like support in creating a community where you can achieve your potential and avoid a long-term dependency on social services, RainCity can help! You will be connected with a team member weekly and are offered choices in housing, either a 4-bed communal house, or to live in other neighbourhoods where you feel safe.

The Vancouver Park Board operates a weekly 2STGD swim for Two Spirit, trans, and gender diverse people to use the pool or gym to swim, workout, and socialize in a fun and supportive environment with their friends and family members. Location and time details are not published for safety reasons, please email for event specifics and more information.  Regular drop in rates, Leisure Access subsidies apply.

Trans Care BC’s care coordination team helps connect people in BC to gender-affirming health and wellness supports. Based out of Vancouver, the small team includes health navigators, nurses, peers, and admin support staff. The team has access to the medical director (GP) for consultation as needed.

The team works alongside service providers and community contacts from across the province to help people find care and support as close to home as possible. Located in Vancouver, they work in collaboration with service providers and community contacts around the province.

If you are a youth, young adult or family member of youth seeking gender affirming care, the team can help you:

– Access information related to any trans health or wellness related question
– Learn about options for gender exploration and gender transition
– Access system navigation support if you’re unsure about care options and pathways
– Get connected to relevant services and care providers
– Find resources and tools that are useful for helping make spaces such as schools, sports teams and day cares more gender-affirming and gender inclusive
– Access support if you’re a parent or caregiver looking for resources or supports for you or your child/youth

This group provides recreation and snacks for trans youth ages 13 to 24, and their loved ones. Also provides information about health and support resources. Meets Thursdays from 5 pm to 8 pm. Facilitated group, and peer-driven. No registration required.

The North Shore Stress and Anxiety Clinic offers effective help for adults, parents, teens, children, couples, and families. They will help you better understand your problems, develop a treatment plan that meets your needs, and teach you skills to make lasting positive changes. Their diverse team of psychologists and psychiatrists have the compassion, training, and expertise to provide high-quality assessments and therapy that works. They use state of the art cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based treatment approaches to treat everything from day-to-day stress, anxiety, and low mood to anxiety disorders, clinical depression, and a range of other problems.

The team also conducts psychoeducational assessments and other specialized evaluations (e.g., medical-legal and disability assessments). Their high quality psychoeducational assessments for children, adolescents, and adults are designed to examine potential learning challenges, symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), or giftedness and to assist with school and life planning.

QMUNITY Youth Program is a safe place for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, two-spirit, intersex, queer, questioning youth. The Youth Program provides information, support and referrals to queer youth as well as resources for family, friends, and professionals.

QMUNITY Youth Program also provides weekly drop-ins (Weds 4-6PM and Fri 6-9PM), leadership training, and special events such as youth dances for youth between the ages of 14 and 25 years, as well as one-to-one peer support for youth 25 years of age of under. The Youth Program also provides PrideSpeaks which are anti-homophobia/transphobia workshops for students K – 12, colleges, universities, and youth communities.

Youth lead in program development through committees, PrideSpeak leadership, surveys, and through ongoing input on regular activities.

Youth clinics offer free and confidential drop in services for youth. At a clinic, you can talk to a health care provider about the health issues that are important to you.

Services vary depending on which clinic you go to. Some of the free and confidential services that may be offered include:

STI/HIV testing & treatment
Free condoms and water-based lubricant
Birth control (free or low cost)
Emergency contraception
Pap tests
Free or low-cost birth control options
Pregnancy testing and counselling
General counselling and health information
Immunizations
Smoking Cessation
Mental health and addictions referrals

A Care Card is not required.

Services:

• STI testing & treatment, and partner follow up
• Birth control options
• pills, patch, ring, implant, & the shot
• Emergency contraception, including pill
• HIV Pre Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)
• Pregnancy options counselling & referrals
• Harm reduction, including free condoms and naloxone kits
• Immunizations (HPV, Mpox, Hep A & B)

Counselling
We can help you when life gets hard or you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, bullying, disordered eating, sexual abuse, relationship violence, coming out, gender identity, and more. Our counsellors have the training and experience to ensure you feel safe, comfortable, and supported.
If your parents can’t afford the counselling fees or you don’t want to tell them about your sessions, we can help. Our intake counsellor can tell you more about the ways we can support you.
We also provide:
• Free transportation, as needed, to and from our office
• Free drinks and snacks during your counselling sessions
We know you’re busy with school, work, and life in general, so our office is open:
• Weeknights until 8:00 pm
• Saturdays from 9:00am – 4:00pm

Embody
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, or disordered eating of any kind, Embody has education, resources, and inspiration that can help.
We also encourage you to check out Love Our Bodies, Love Ourselves movement. Join the conversation on Facebook , Twitter or Instagram and connect with other B.C. youth who are talking about what it means to have a healthy body image.

YouthLAB
Every year, a small group of North Shore high school students (grades 10-12), come together as volunteers to form the Youth Leadership Advisory Board (YouthLAB). If you are interested in public speaking, writing, and mental health, we’d love to connect with you.
YouthLAB members:
• Meet two evenings each month (weekday evening to be determined), from 4:30 – 6:30pm (snacks included when meetings take place in-person)
• Earn up to 50 hours of community service from September through May
• Learn about mental health issues from our professional counsellors
• Advocate for the needs of at-risk youth in our community
• Develop leadership, communication, and public speaking skills
YouthLAB members create presentations and campaigns for their high school peers, focused on topics including depression, anxiety, LGBTQ2S+ issues, disordered eating, bullying, and relationship violence. If you’re ready to make a real difference in your community. For additional information click here.
Applications for YouthLAB 2021/2022 cohort (beginning in October 2021) are open now. Please click here for an application form.
The YouthLAB 2019/2020 cohort produced an amazing art book that provides a creative illustration of their youth-lead work in addressing mental health issues facing young people. Eleven youth attending North Shore Schools created this book to share their artistic reflections about wellness and mental health topics such as anxiety, depression, trauma and social justice concerns with their peers. Click here to view and download this book. The 202/2021 YouthLAB created a video, check back here to see it later in May.

PROUD2BE
We created our PROUD2BE programs, because we know that those of us who identify as LGBTQ2S+ need a safe place to talk about how that feels – and how hard it can be sometimes. We also offer help to parents and family members if they’re having a hard time, too.

The Norvan Boys and Girls Club is a place for friendship, informal guidance and activities for children and youth. The Norvan Club encourages the physical, educational, character, and skill development of each member through recreational and social activities.

Norvan Club offers:

PRE-TEEN GIRLS: GRADES 5-7
TUESDAYS 6:30 – 9:00PM

“HYPE NIGHT”
PRE-TEEN: GRADES 5-7
Thursdays 6:30 – 9:00PM

TEEN: GRADES 8-12
FRIDAYS 6:30 – 9:00PM

Come by for a variety of activities, snacks and a great place to just chill out. We are an inclusive environment and are open to ALL. 

The Club’s pre-teen and teen programs are open to all members. Programs include out-trips throughout the city, cooking meals together, enjoying movie nights in a relaxed atmosphere, and providing opportunities to enhance leadership skills through increased ‘response-ability’.

Contact the Norvan Club directly for more information on detailed program information and schedules.

The North Vancouver School District acknowledges and honours the history and culture of the Skwxwú7mesh and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations in whose territory we reside. The Skwxwú7mesh Nation, Tsleil-Waututh First Nation and Métis Nation of British Columbia are key partners in ensuring success for students of Indigenous ancestry.
The North Vancouver School District’s Indigenous Education Program delivers culturally-appropriate educational programs and services to support the academic and personal success of students who self-identify as being of Indigenous ancestry. The term “Indigenous ancestry” embraces all First Nations, status and non-status; Inuit; and Métis peoples.

INCLUSIVITY exists to help you manage diversity within your company or community. We provide a range of services to help you develop best practices, remain up to date, innovate, and engage your employees or community members to create the best outcomes for all stakeholders.

The ​First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) is the first province-wide health authority of its kind in Canada. In 2013, the FNHA assumed the programs, services, and responsibilities formerly handled by Health Canada’s First Nations Inuit Health Branch – Pacific Region. Their vision is to transform the health and well-being of BC’s First Nations and Aboriginal people by dramatically changing healthcare for the better.

The First Nations Health Authority plans, designs, manages, and funds the delivery of First Nations health programs and services in BC. These community-based services are largely focused on health promotion and disease prevention – such as:

• Primary Care Services

• Children, Youth and Maternal Health

• Mental Health and Addictions Programming

• Health and Wellness Planning

• Health Infrastructure and Human Resources

• Environmental Health and Research​

• First Nations Health Benefits

• eHealth Technology

The Eslha7an Youth program is open to First Nations students aged 14 to 19. Up to 20 students are enrolled in individualized programs that include the core academic subjects of English, Math, Social Studies and Science at grades 9–12, as well as an elective of Cultural Art, a program developed in partnership with the Squamish Nation. Students learn the Squamish language, history and cultural traditions, and participate in traditional handcrafts in the classroom, in a longhouse program and through outdoor activities. Guest speakers and local field trips focus on healthy lifestyles and community involvement.

Many students also work on the ArrowMight learning system, a remedial English and Math program based on Canadian and First Nations history and geography.

Students work towards the 80 credit Dogwood graduation program or the Adult Dogwood Certificate. Additional course credits can be earned through Distributed Learning, with the Youth Teacher providing help as needed.

The Learning Centre provides First Nations students (15-19 yrs) with adult basic education and Dogwood Diploma. There is a learning disability program for various ages and an over 19 program. The Family Health Centre provides drug and alcohol counselling, a health clinic and legal aid. The Youth Development Coordinator also assists youth (10-18 yrs) with court and probation.

Youth Development Coordinator Natalie Baker

SPECTRUM SKATEBOARD SOCIETY IS ALL ABOUT HAVING A  FUN, SAFE, AND INCLUSIVE SKATEBOARDING EXPERIENCE.

All of our instructors are Level 1 certified skateboard instructors with the International Skateboard Certification Program (ISCP).  During our lessons, we not only teach skateboarding skills, but we also teach how to positively communicate with the other skateboard park users, as well as how to skateboard socially with your fellow skate camp friends.  Click the button below for available lessons and camps.  At this time all lessons and camps are located in North Vancouver.

Spectrum has volunteer opportunities available for skateboard instructor helpers and general volunteers to help with set-up and clean up.  Skateboard skills are a bonus but not required.

INCLUSIVITY exists to help you manage diversity within your company or community. We provide a range of services to help you develop best practices, remain up to date, innovate, and engage your employees or community members to create the best outcomes for all stakeholders.

A number of programs and services are available for persons with disabilities to help them and their caregivers cope with the added expenses and to facilitate their full participation in society. The Canada or Québec Pension Plan administers monthly income programs.

Children who have ADD, ADHD, FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, bi-polar disorder, manic depression, anxiety disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, Type 1/2 diabetes, epilepsy and learning disabilities can be eligible for the Disability amount.

High School Graduation is a traditional time of transition, however, for Youth living with Cerebral Palsy and other disabilities, this transition is much more complicated as the graduate is no longer eligible for many programs and supports provided through Children’s’ Services. Youth with Disabilities and their families must find their way through an often-bewildering array of adult services to arrange the supports that they need.

The CPABC Navigator for Youth in Transition to Adult Services is here to help you connect with the services they need through their specialized information and referral resource. The Navigator service is available for youth aged 14 to 25, their parents and members of their Transition Support Teams. To access this service, call the CPABC office at 604 408 9484, or email Jeanne@bccerebralpalsy.com.

The Youth Without Limits Support Group is a new program at CPABC. The group is for (but not limited to) youth and young adults between the ages of 13-29.

The Youth Without Limits Support Group is unique in the sense that it is a support group facilitated by disabled youth specifically for their peers with disabilities. We understand that acceptance and understanding are key aspects to providing adequate knowledge and support from one disabled person to another.

This is a free inclusive program. Drop-ins welcome! Snacks and refreshments provided.

Come join the Cerebral Palsy Association of British Columbia as they launch an exciting, new expressive arts program. For an hour each week, children and youth with disabilities can express themselves through artistic mediums.

Led by Heather Korlak, a qualified teacher and expressive arts therapist with a background in visual art, participants will have a great outlet to explore their creativity while socializing.

Currently offered in Burnaby and West Vancouver.

Go to the CPABC website or email for details!

The Cerebral Palsy Association of BC

Dance Without Limits offers a safe, active environment for individuals with various disabilities to have fun while exploring dance, creative movement and games. Please note that participants who may require substantial physical or behavioral support may be asked to attend alongside a guardian or support worker.

This is a free, inclusive program. Drop-ins, parents and caregivers are welcome!

Classes currently available in both Surrey and Richmond.

Go to the CPABC website or email for details!

The Cerebral Palsy Association of British Columbia offers Adapted Yoga classes for youth and others living with Cerebral Palsy.

This class offers a safe, calm environment for people with physical disabilities to practice meditative breathing and movement. Please note that participants who may require substantial physical or behavioral support may be asked to attend alongside a guardian or support worker.

Currently held at Christchurch Cathedral in Vancouver.

Go to the CPABC website for more info!

In BC, an estimated 25,000 people are on the autism spectrum, aged 19-65. Most of them are unemployed or underemployed. With employment, individuals on the spectrum can acquire greater economic independence, contribute inclusively in a meaningful way, and enjoy a higher quality of life.

Focus Professional Services provide software and data qualify services in the Greater Vancouver area. They specialize in hiring individuals on the Autism Spectrum who are interested in a career in software testing or data quality. No previous training, education, or experience is required.

Their recruitment process starts with asking yourself the following questions:

Do you want to work full-time?
Do you have a passion for computers and/or software?
Are you open to learning new skills?

If you answered yes to all three questions, they want to hear from you!

Serving the Lower Mainland, posAbilities assists persons with developmental disabilities to lead meaningful and healthy lives by partnering with the community to provide a comprehensive range of person-centred services for individuals and the families who care for them.

Behaviour Consultation – Laurel Behaviour Support Services [LBSS] provides Early Intensive Behaviour Intervention (EIBI), behaviour consultation to school-aged children and youth, and adult services to individuals who have an autism spectrum disorder and/or intellectual disability. Consultants use the science of applied behaviour analysis to address challenging behaviours and to teach adaptive skills that will produce enduring changes in their quality of life. Together with families, they strive to increase a person’s independence across a variety of settings – home, school and community.

posAbilities also offers Employment Services for those on the Autism spectrum and with development disabilities.

Check their website for more information!

posAbilities Employment Service assists job seekers to prepare for, secure and maintain competitive, community based employment in both the Tri-Cites and Vancouver areas. New to Employment Service is a fee for service being offered throughout Metro Vancouver to assist persons on the Autism spectrum or with developmental disabilities to find competitive employment in their community.

Don’t Sweat It Services was created to remove barriers to employment and offers a more flexible approach to paid work. The enterprise provides maintenance, gardening and recycling services to home and business customers.

Contact for more information!

Accessibility Services faculty and staff welcome your inquiries! They are the point of entry for students with disabilities who are enrolling in regular Capilano University courses and programs. Once you are a registered student at the University, the department can arrange accommodations and services for you to maximize your post-secondary educational experience.

Contact the Accessibility Services Office as early as possible, at least four months in advance of the term.

The Transition & Employment program assists young people with disabilities, aged 15+ and their families to navigate the transition from child to adult services, and supports toward employment.
How we can help…
•Assist youth with disabilities to transition into the government services system
•Develop a transition plan for your future
•Provide information regarding transition and employment
•Facilitate workshops and information sessions
•Link you to services and resources in the community
•Attend school transition IEP meetings by request
•Job Club and employment workshops for job seekers
•Job development supports
•Individual appointments are available

Education and Employment Access (EEA) is a full time, 8 month program operating within the School of Access and Academic Preparation at Cap U. Students with learning difficulties or other barriers to reaching their goals will be offered specific support in their transition to post-secondary education and employment.

The focus will be on developing the skills and strategies necessary to be an independent learner in a university setting. Students will finish with a professional portfolio, certifications, strategies for success in first year courses and current experience in the sector of their choice.

The Discover Employability program is a transitional program for students moving from high school to a post-secondary and/or workplace environment. Students explore a range of possible work areas and identify those that match their abilities and interest. Depending on their readiness, after completing this 8-month program they may go on to further skills training or be referred to a supported employment agency.

The program is designed for young adults with special learning needs. They are coached on the expectations of entry-level employment. Students are given an opportunity to build self awareness and self advocacy skills and work towards being more independent.

The DE program combines in-class instruction with practical work experience, emphasizing the skills required to be successful in employment situations. Students meet with faculty to discuss an individual work experience plan that best fits their needs. Personal goals will be set and monitored throughout the year.

The DE program is in session for eight months (two terms). The fall term includes one three week work experience block and twelve weeks of classroom instruction. During the spring term, there are two work experience blocks totalling nine weeks, and five weeks of classroom instruction.

Upon completion of the program, each student will meet individually with faculty to discuss their progress and to identify future plans and resources related to the students goals.

This program, through North Shore Disability Resource Centre, is designed for individuals with disabilities who want to improve academic, work and life skills and will transition out of the service within 1-4 years to access other educational or employment related services and opportunities. This service is best suited to those who wish to further their independence through community-based activities and do not require one to one assistance.

STAGE offers a varied schedule based on the goals of the participants:

Functional academics (Smart Readers, Math 2 Go, Money Skills )
Skill development (bus skills, office skills, basic computer skills)
Work skill training through community volunteering
Employment exploration through Informational interviews and tours with local businesses and services

To apply to the STAGE Program you must first call Community Living British Columbia (CLBC) at 604.981.0321 and speak to a Facilitator. The Facilitator will assist you with developing a plan and if appropriate will make a referral to the program on your behalf

This service is for adults aged 19 and over who have disabilities and are interested in continuing to learn life skills. Participants choose a variety of life skills to learn at home or in community settings, assisted by a worker selected by the participant and their family or support network.

Referrals are required from Community Living BC (CLBC) www.communitylivingbc.ca. CLBC is responsible for the order of acceptance and can be reached at 604.981.0321. On average, CLBC allocates program participants with 4 hours of service per week and reviews their progress bi-annually.

This weekend program is for individuals between the ages of 9 and 18. Participants enjoy recreational activities and community outings with their peers while building social and life skills.They are actively involved in planning activities and meet as a group at the beginning of every month to create a recreation plan.This program runs on Saturday afternoons and is only closed on statutory holiday weekends.

Referrals are required from the Ministry of Children and Families (MCFD). MCFD is responsible for the order of acceptance and can be reached at 604.904.4300.

The NSDRC Summer Bursary Program provides financial support to North Shore families/guardians of children and youth who have a special need, disability or are in the process of receiving a diagnosis and may require additional support to attend summer recreation programs, camps or community-based activities. Bursaries can be used towards program or camp fees or to assist with payment of a support worker.

The North Shore Disability Resource Centre (NSDRC) was established in 1975 by a group of parents, professionals and advocates. This group wanted to create services to ensure that people with disabilities could live comfortably in their communities. Since that time, the NSDRC has continued to expand both its mandate and services. We continue to work to ensure that people with disabilities have the opportunity to participate actively as contributing members of society. We are committed to working toward a community that is free of physical, financial, and attitudinal barriers.

The North Shore Disability Resource Centre directly serves over 450 individuals through our residential and community based programs. Our Information and Advocacy Program recorded over 1,400 contacts from people with disabilities, their families, friends and networks on the North Shore. We make every effort to ensure that their voices are heard, and that they are supported to participate in their community as fully and independently as possible.

The ABLE Developmental Clinic Inc. is a private multidisciplinary clinic providing assessment, treatment and consultation for children and youth experiencing difficulties with Attention, Behaviour, Learning, and Emotion. Although ABLE services children and families with all kinds of difficulties, ABLE is known for its work with learning disabilities, ADHD, intellectual disabilities, disruptive behavior, and autism spectrum disorders.

Friendship Circles are lunchtime play groups for school children, facilitated in order to support the formation and continuation of natural friendships between students with developmental disabilities and their “typical” peers.

Family Support provides on-going support to families facing the challenge of raising a child with special needs. We offer one-to-one personal support on an outreach basis through education and problem solving and assist families to explain their existing network.

As a community service, Intellectual Disabilities Society delivers information sessions to high school students to promote inclusion and increase awareness and acceptance about people living with a development disability. The presentation can also be customized for other community groups and is always upbeat, informative and interactive.

This program delivers unique & innovative Puppet and Simulation Game sessions for children aged 3 to 18 in schools and other community settings. Age-appropriate tools are used to foster understanding, acceptance and empathy & to enhance social interactions between individuals with autism and their typically developing peers. There are 12 weekly play sessions for one child with autism and 2-4 peers.

Friend 2 Friend Social Learning Society (Friend 2 Friend) is a not-for-profit, federally registered charity, based in Vancouver, BC, Canada. Their mission is to enhance reciprocal social interaction, communication, imaginative play, and friendships between individuals on the autism spectrum and their typically developing peers.

Friend 2 Friend provides a variety of unique and innovative programs such as the Autism Demystification Programs and the Friend 2 Friend – Integrated Play Groups® Programs to individuals aged 3 through 18 on the autism spectrum and related social, communication and play needs.

Wired 4 Success is a North Shore employment program funded through Service Canada designed specifically for youth ages 16 to 30 with barriers to employment.  Youth attend for 13 weeks and are paid a training allowance at minimum wage based on a 30-hour week.

The first 4 weeks consist of on-site training, followed by 9 weeks of work experience. The goal of the program is to get participants employed, return to school or a combination of the two. The objectives of the program are to help youth overcome barriers to employment and develop a broad range of skills and knowledge to access employment opportunities with private sector employers.

While attending the program youth learn many skills that assist them in gaining employment along with life skills related to employment and independence. Youth receive their Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), Food Safe and Basic First Aid certification along with some capacity to offer individual skills enhancement such as forklift operation, or other related certification needed as a condition of employment.

This program is well-suited for youth who lack work experience or employment skills and who face barriers to employment including but not limited to; mental health, disadvantaged background, or lack of education/training.

For more information and/or, to set up an appointment please contact us at 604-988-1292.

Intellectual Disabilities Society offers a variety of services such as respite services, educational and entrepreneurial programs, Friendship Circles and recreation programs for youth with developmental disabilities. Through the Education and Community Awareness program, Intellectual Disabilities Society delivers presentations to high school students to promote inclusion and increase awareness and acceptance about people living with intellectual disabilities.

Teen Club is a licensed Out of School care Program for special needs teenagers aged 13 to 18 that focuses on social and life skill development through exposure to a wide variety of leisure activities.

The teens attending the program are referred by Community Living British Columbia. They have a wide variety of challenges: Autism, Down Syndrome, William’s Syndrome, general developmental delays, hearing and visual impairments, psychiatric disorders and learning disabilities. Staff work with social workers, school staff, psychologists/psychiatrists, neurologists, behaviour therapists and families to provide a safe, supportive and nurturing environment.

Teen Club provides high quality programming that includes a balance of in-house and community based activities; these include sports, drama and music programs, game days and outings to locations in the community. During school breaks, teens participate in a wide variety of activities locally and across the Lower Mainland. Special events such as dances, parties, and graduation days are organized on a regular basis.

For more information contact, Dana Robinson, Teen Club Supervisor.

Whatever is a drop-in program for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth and offers a supportive, caring environment in which to hang out and be heard. This drop-in takes place at West Vancouver’s newest youth space – the Youth Hub at Park Royal Mall. The Youth Hub is a great place to hang out, watch movies, play pool, and more.

PLEA’s vision is a world where everyone has the opportunity for a good life, and where everyone counts. To fulfil this vision PLEA delivers unique services, tailored to individual strengths and needs, to children, youth, adults and families facing significant challenges so that they may live fulfilling lives within their communities.

This youth centre offers different activities and program every night except for Sundays and Mondays.

Activities vary greatly from arts & crafts, healthy dinners, movies, open gym, to pre-teen and teen drop ins.

Foosball arts & crafts: Mon 6:00 – 9:30pm
Pre-Teen Drop-In: Tues 3:00 – 5:00pm, Wed 6:00 – 9:30 pm & Thurs 6:00 – 9:30 pm
Movies, music and games night: Fri 6:00 – 11:00 pm
Free Basketball drop-in: Fri 7:00 – 10:00pm
Tourneys in pool, foosball & board games: Sat 6:00 – 11:00 pm
Open Gym: Sat 7:00 – 10:00 pm

Delbrook Youth Centre has fooseball, air hockey, video and board games, music, food and much more!

Fall (September 7 – December 22) 2017 Hours:

Tuesday – 3:30 – 6:30 pm (10 – 12 years)
Thursday – 3:30 – 6:30 pm (10 – 18 years)
Friday – 4:00 – 10:00 pm (13 – 18 years)
Saturday – 6:00 – 10:00 pm (13 – 18 years)

Teen Volunteer opportunities at the North Vancouver City Library include Teen Advisory Council, Teen Initiated Programs, Teen Art and Promotion Group, Homework Buddies, Lego Robotics Mentors, Reading Buddies, and Library Events.

Volunteer registration is on a first-come, first-served, basis.

Want to get help with your homework? Teen mentors will help you reach your goals with homework and you’ll also get a chance to play games, socialize and have fun.

This group is for tweens and teens in grades 4 and up.

No registration required – drop in to the Teen Room on the 2nd floor each Thursday from 3:30pm – 5:30pm (except school holidays) starting January 26, 2017.

North Shore Community Resources’ Something Cool for After School program teams up with the North Vancouver City Library to offer hands on learning with Lego Robotics.

Part 1- Participants will work in small groups over two weeks with teen mentors and learn how to make a LEGO EV3 robot! Each workshop runs for two weeks on Tuesday in the 1st floor Program Room.

Part 2 – You’ve built your first Lego EV3 robot and now it’s time to take it to the next level. You will work in small groups with the guidance of teen mentors over two weeks to make a LEGO EV3 robot of your choice (4 choices available)! Each workshop runs for three weeks on Tuesday in the 1st floor Program Room.

Register online at www.nvcl.ca.

The North Vancouver District Public Library has 3 locations where you can find great reading, watching and listening suggestions; study space & research help; volunteer opportunities, and more.

The Youth Centre Coordinator at Parkgate Community Centre organizes/supervises both preteen and teen drop-ins. The coordinator is a great resource if you need support on a Friday and/or Saturday evening with a crisis, safe place to chill, or just want someone to chat with.

In addition, the coordinator is always looking for new ideas to make Parkgate’s spaces more youth friendly, so if you have a great idea for a drop-in they would love to work with you to make it happen!

Regular Tuesday Pre-Teen Drop in is 3:00- 5:30 in the John Braithwaite Community Centre (JBCC) Youth Lounge (excluding Holidays). Open to grades 5-7 (ages 10-13).

There is also irregular programming including Wednesday Board Games and Friday Open Gym at NSNH.

Please contact Geoff for more details.

North Vancouver District Public Library has 3 locations where you can find great reading, watching and listening suggestions; study space & research help; volunteer opportunities, and more.

The Capilano branch is located in Edgemont Village.

Are you in grades 8-12? Interested in getting involved with your Library? Come to the Teen Advisory Group at the Lynn Valley Public Library.

TAG is made up of teens who want to have a say in their library. What do you want teen services and spaces to look like? Have any suggestions for how we can improve and promote our collections? This is the place for you; we also do fun and creative stuff, buy books and more. And no meeting is complete without food! TAG meets once a month during the school year.

See the library’s website for days and times.

North Vancouver District Public Library has 3 locations where you can find great reading, watching and listening suggestions; study space & research help; volunteer opportunities, and more. They also have a Teen Advisory Group.

Are you a tween in grade 5, 6 or 7? Want to volunteer to make the Library awesome? Have fun sharing your ideas and plan cool events in the Library. They meet on the last Thursday of every month.

You can register online at www.nvcl.ca or in person at the Children’s department desk.

Contact Kate Longley to register to receive reminders and more information about Tween programs in the Library.

Develop your leadership skills while having fun helping to plan and promote technology workshops and other events for teens. You will also get a chance to provide input on teen services and materials at the Library.

Beginning on December 18th you may register for the Winter 2016 session of this volunteer opportunity on the North Van City Library’s website .

The teen room is reserved just for youth in grades 7 to 12 every day after school from 3-6pm. On Mondays and Tuesdays the room is for quiet study. Drop-in and hang out with friends, work on homework, read, use the iPad minis, computers and free wifi.

Get help with finding resources for your homework from Library staff in the room.

Interested in making a movie in the summer? The Indie Filmmakers Lab is a two-week filmmaking program for aspiring independent filmmakers, ages 14-19 held at the SFU School for the Contemporary Arts in Vancouver.

They invite passionate, bold, risk-taking artists who are eager to be inspired, develop their craft, and create a short film to be proud of.

Both the City of North Vancouver and the District of North Vancouver offer full bursaries to youth or families experiencing financial need.

Apply online at www.indielab.ca

The goal of this project is to equip youth on Bowen Island with basic cooking and kitchen skills, as well as raise their awareness of the importance of good nutrition. Teamwork and leadership will also be encouraged. The program takes place at the Bowen Island Youth Centre (BIYC).

The BIYC has a full kitchen and Felicity Buskard, who is on staff as a youth worker is also a trained chef. She, along with Kat Bernards (also a great chef and youth worker) run the course. They are both Foodsafe certified.

Room 14 in West Vancouver Memorial Library is an 838 square foot space dedicated to youth in Grades 8–12. This is your place to relax, meet with friends, study or make something amazing.

This space was created after hearing from almost 400 young people in West Vancouver. You imagined it, they built it and now the space is yours.

Right next to Gleneagles Community Centre, the Adventure Park is for adrenaline seekers, with dirt jumps and stunt zones for mountain bikers and BMX riders, a concrete skate park for skateboarders and an area to hang out with friends.

Features include: concrete skateboard bowl, wooden ladder features, dirt jumps, variety of stunt features and a social area.

The Parkgate SK8 Park is unique with a combination of bowl and street elements. The skate park was officially opened in the fall of 2000, and attracts hundreds of youth year round! Participants need to provide their own skateboard, helmet, knee and elbow pads. Helmets are mandatory and it is highly recommended that skaters wear other safety equipment.

■ Approximately 5,500 square feet
■ Concrete finish
■ Coping, street-style elements around the perimeter
■ Lighting and benches
■ Adjacent to outdoor sports court and indoor Youth Centre
■ Freestyle area with mini 1/4
■ Big 45 degree wedge bank
■ Pyramid with flat bar
■ Seven-foot deep keyhole joined at one side with a spines to four and a half mini half with capsule end
■ Joined on one side with hip to six-foot mini half with capsule end
■ Continuous metal coping throughout

During the school year, Parkgate Community Centre’s Youth Services team facilitates preteen dances. The dances are for youth in grades six and seven, and provide opportunities for preteens to explore social interactions in a safe, supervised environment while having fun. The dances also create a shared community experience prior to moving on to high school. All dances are from 7-10pm.

For a complete listing of all dances please visit: http://www.myparkgate.com/youth/eventscalendar/

Youth Unlimited North Shore (YU North Shore) is the only organization on the North Shore that cares for the physical, mental, social, emotional, and spiritual needs of vulnerable youth in the community and the local church.

YU North Shore provides a multitude of opportunities for fun and transformational connection for local youth (Ages 10 to 24) through relevant programs (TACO Tuesday boardgames night, Mental Health Discussion Group), community partnerships (City Fest, Mobile Youth Drop-In RV), school partnerships (After-School Jams, Cooking Club) and long-term one-on-one mentorships.

Youth Unlimited is a faith-based organization and is interested in genuine connections with young people to support them on their turf with the help they need. YU North Shore staff seek to provide relational care that is consistent, understanding, authentic, non-judgmental, and empathetic.

The West Vancouver Youth Services team offers various activities, programs, and services for youth from grades 6 to 12. Visit their website at westvancouver.ca/youth to learn more about opportunities for youth, special events, 1:1 and group support, youth committees, and their dedicated youth spaces. Youth Outreach Workers can offer 1:1 support and group support, referrals, and community engagement.

Youth aged 12-18 are welcome to stay for an hour, the whole night or just use the place as somewhere to meet up with friends before going out. Everyone is free to come and go as they please. During drop-ins, there are always things going on such as street hockey, skate sessions, BBQs, movies, gaming, and lots of goofing around! Ultimately, you’re sure to find someone and something that fits with where you’re at.

A fully functional mobile skateboard park in the car park of the youth centre is open the same hours as the centre.

If you turn up and want to make something new happen, there are always friendly, fun-loving Youth Workers on hand to help spontaneously facilitate activities and offer quality advice.

CityFEST started in 2002 when the City of North Vancouver threw a party with some youth serving agencies to celebrate the opening of the Centennial Skate Park. That party included a BBQ and a small skate competition. Since that time, CityFEST has grown to include performing artists, visual arts displays, interactive projects, food and the largest skate competition in Metro Vancouver. The festival, which is held annually during Youth Week, is run by youth, for youth – volunteers meet throughout the year to plan, coordinate and execute the event.

This program is offered in partnership with Westview Elementary and Carson Graham Secondary. It is a friendship-based program which matches male & female high school buddies (grades 9-12) with elementary school-aged children. The buddies spend time on school grounds 1 hour each week during the school year doing a variety of non-academic, fun activities together. The program offers unique cooking classes at Carson Graham where matches learn to make nutritious meals together.

This group meets the first Monday of every month at John Braithwaite Community Centre and is only for young adults between the ages of 18 to 24 years old. This group provides a mix of social and skill development. Young adults are able to socialize with other peers their age playing or enjoying snacks. In addition, youth workers will be present to provide mentorship and support around areas such as employment, housing, relationships, referrals, social isolation, etc.

Hollyburn Hockey Heroes is a program designed to provide youth a safe outlet and give them an opportunity to engage in a healthy and active lifestyle as an alternative to the negative influences on the streets. This initiative is also designed to assist youth to interact and connect with other community service providers.

The program is offered to youth aged 14 to 18, who are otherwise unable to play hockey because of financial or social barriers. Youth have the opportunity to participate in a recreational hockey program that provides them the opportunity to connect with skilled youth workers to facilitate opportunities for their own personal growth.

The North Vancouver City Library offers services and programming for pre-teens and teens, 7 days a week. Regular programs typically include Drop-in Gaming events, Robotics, Book Clubs, Movie Screenings, Homework Help, Parties, the Annual Kilby Memorial Teen Art Contest, Gaming Tournaments, Teen Summer Reading Club, and a variety of fun and unique events and contests throughout the year.

The library offers an extensive physical and digital collection of books, movies & TV, games, graphic novels, magazines, Manga, and more. Library staff are here to help you find and use resources for all of your needs, from learning to entertainment.

A fun and chill spot for pre-teens in grades 6 and 7 to hang out and visit with your friends two afternoons a week. Centre-based youth workers supervise the Bay Scene so you can play sports and games, watch movies, do arts and crafts, and more in a welcoming environment.

Bay Scene Late Night:
The Bay Scene also offers a “Late Night” program for pre-teens interested in additional supervised adventures each Friday evening, ranging from sports and dances, to pizza nights and field trips to local attractions. With a variety of cool activities to choose from such as these and more, there are many reasons to check this program out!

Spend time with friends, meet new people, play pool or ping-pong, get help with your school work, or even set up a time for your band to jam! A truly versatile space, there is never a shortage of things to do at the Youth Lounge!

Cool, friendly centre-based youth workers supervise the Youth Lounge and can connect you to volunteer opportunities, youth-led community groups, and important resources and information.

Pre-teen Drop-in (Grades 6 & 7)
Monday & Wednesday 3 – 5:30pm
Friday 3 – 7pm

Youth Drop-in (Grades 8 – 12)
Wednesday 3 – 5:30pm
Friday 3 – 10pm
Saturday 5 – 10pm

The West Vancouver Memorial Library offers an inclusive, welcoming environment for youth of all ages.

Wireless access is free throughout the building and there is space for silent study and group work. Teen space offers books, DVDs, magazines, audiobooks and playaways. Students in Grades 8-12 can earn volunteer hours by participating in the Teen Advisory Group or Teen Volunteer Program.

Drop-in and shoot some hoops! We meet every Saturday from 8:00pm – 10:30 pm at the Parkgate Youth Centre. This drop-in is free for 13 – 19 year olds.

Drop-ins include a free snack and are facilitated by trained adult professionals.

Bored? Come and hang out! There’s free food (BBQ most nights), games, challenges, movies and great Youth Workers.

Parkgate Youth Centre is open every Friday and Saturday night from 7pm – 10:30 pm.

Drop-ins include a free snack and are facilitated by trained adult professionals.

Are you in Grade 6 or 7? Looking for something to do on a Friday afternoon? Drop in to the Parkgate Youth Centre – we’re here every Friday between 3:30 – 6:00 pm.

Come and see what’s happening. There’s free food, games, stuff to do and random surprises.

Drop-ins include a free snack and are facilitated by trained adult professionals.

A group for pre-teens only that meets at Parkgate Youth Centre every Thursday from 3:30pm – 5:30 pm.

Come and chill with a smoothie and catch a movie! Drop-ins include a free snack and are facilitated by trained adult professionals.

Parkgate Community Services Society (PCSS) employs two full-time Seymour Youth Outreach Workers and a full-time Youth Services Supervisor (funded by DNV). PCSS operates and provides services through the Youth Centre at Parkgate Community Centre.

Big Sisters are women (age 19 or older) who spend 2-4 hours a week for a minimum of one year with their Little Sister (age 7-17) in a one to one mentoring friendship. Each Big & Little Sister match gets together once a week to participate in fun activities they both enjoy such as crafts, sports, going to the beach, watching movies or simply hanging out and spending time together! Big Sisters group activities are also offered each month.

Little Sisters can be referred by parents/guardians, counsellors, social workers, teachers, etc. Little Sisters may come from a variety of family backgrounds including single parent or two parent families, temporary or permanent care.

Lynn Valley RecCentre is one of the Youth Centre sites for North Shore Neighbourhood House.

A drop in for ages 10-13 years runs through the school year. The Lynn Valley RecCentre is located at the corner of Mountain Hwy & Frederick.

The John Braithwaite Community Centre is one of the Youth Centre sites for North Shore Neighbourhood House.

Mon 6-9:30pm (Youth)

Tues 3-5pm (Pre-teen), 6-9:30pm (Youth)

Wed-Thurs 3-9:30pm (Youth)

Fri 3-11pm (Youth), Drop-In Gym 7-10pm

Sat 6-11pm (Youth), Drop-In Gym 7-10pm

If you are in crisis, or just need someone to listen, please call on North Shore Neighbourhood House (NSNH). Their youth outreach workers are trained to provide support, guidance and referrals in a non-judgmental way. Their goal is to make you feel safe, supported and respected.

NSNH outreach workers can help you with:
•One-to-one support, temporary or ongoing
•Drug and alcohol education
•School problems
•Family issues
•Job and resume skills
•Providing advocacy and information
•Referrals to other services
•And lots more!

They are also available for group presentations. Please contact one of the Youth Outreach Workers for more information.

The Norvan Boys and Girls Club is a place for friendship, informal guidance and activities for children and youth. The Norvan Club encourages the physical, educational, character, and skill development of each member through recreational and social activities.

Norvan Club offers:

PRE-TEEN GIRLS: GRADES 5-7
TUESDAYS 6:30 – 9:00PM

“HYPE NIGHT”
PRE-TEEN: GRADES 5-7
Thursdays 6:30 – 9:00PM

TEEN: GRADES 8-12
FRIDAYS 6:30 – 9:00PM

Come by for a variety of activities, snacks and a great place to just chill out. We are an inclusive environment and are open to ALL. 

The Club’s pre-teen and teen programs are open to all members. Programs include out-trips throughout the city, cooking meals together, enjoying movie nights in a relaxed atmosphere, and providing opportunities to enhance leadership skills through increased ‘response-ability’.

Contact the Norvan Club directly for more information on detailed program information and schedules.

Capilano Youth Services provides services to youth age 10 to 24, with particular focus on the potentially at risk youth population. Our Youth Outreach Workers meet with youth in schools and in the community to provide drug and alcohol prevention awareness, advocacy, support and to facilitate referrals to other agencies and access to services. One of our primary goals is to create opportunities to identify youth potentially at-risk and provide support to the youth and their families. Capilano Youth Services offers the following programs:

•One to One Support
•Outreach in Schools
•Outreach in the Community

Capilano Youth Services are available to all youth in the Upper and Lower Capilano area. However, please contact us if you require services in another geographic area, as we may be able to provide a referral to other community organizations.

Harvest Project is a community-based urban relief organization and registered Canadian charity. We connect with more than 1000 people each month – as we provide one-to-one client-coaching and active-listening, a rent bank, a grocery-support program, clothing supports, assistance for workforce re-entry, food-recovery and redistribution, and our retail Clothes For Change Thrift Boutique. All supported by volunteers and donors from every corner of the North Shore.

Harvest Project serves Metro-Vancouver’s North Shore, ‘extending a hand up’ to those in need. We provide assistance to residents from Deep Cove in the east to Horseshoe Bay in the west. Our vision is to enlarge our work as a compassionate presence for North Shore residents, by North Shore residents. We’re working to help the North Shore become the most inclusive, healthy and diverse community in Canada. We aim to collaborate with the other excellent services and not-for-profit agencies operating in our community.

In one of the wealthiest regions in Canada, critical family needs are often hidden and services are scarce for those who find themselves in desperate times. About 1 in 5 North Shore families are headed by a lone-parent – representing thousands of people. These families, and many others, are at-risk of losing access to physical, social and economic resources and opportunities.

Since 1993, Harvest Project has been reaching out to those who are experiencing extreme challenges with family break-downs, illness, job loss, and poverty. Our founder, David Foster, was a young West Vancouver business-person who fell on hard-times, found himself ‘on the street’, and was offered assistance by several local churches and other organizations. He came to embrace a Christian faith and felt inspired to begin Harvest Project as an expression of the Biblical principles of solidarity with those in poverty, caring for marginalized people, and seeking justice for neighbours in-need.

In BC, an estimated 25,000 people are on the autism spectrum, aged 19-65. Most of them are unemployed or underemployed. With employment, individuals on the spectrum can acquire greater economic independence, contribute inclusively in a meaningful way, and enjoy a higher quality of life.

Focus Professional Services provide software and data qualify services in the Greater Vancouver area. They specialize in hiring individuals on the Autism Spectrum who are interested in a career in software testing or data quality. No previous training, education, or experience is required.

Their recruitment process starts with asking yourself the following questions:

Do you want to work full-time?
Do you have a passion for computers and/or software?
Are you open to learning new skills?

If you answered yes to all three questions, they want to hear from you!

posAbilities Employment Service assists job seekers to prepare for, secure and maintain competitive, community based employment in both the Tri-Cites and Vancouver areas. New to Employment Service is a fee for service being offered throughout Metro Vancouver to assist persons on the Autism spectrum or with developmental disabilities to find competitive employment in their community.

Don’t Sweat It Services was created to remove barriers to employment and offers a more flexible approach to paid work. The enterprise provides maintenance, gardening and recycling services to home and business customers.

Contact for more information!

Are you a young adult and actively looking for employment?

Are you an immigrant youth or young adult age 30 or younger and a permanent resident, Canadian Citizen or a Protected Person? Do you have intermediate English language skills? Are you unemployed and non-EI eligible? If so, join the Retail Connections Program now!

This program offers:
– 4 weeks of daily group-training sessions including:
– Vocational assessment
– Job search skills and education coaching
– Employment connections
– Retail specific training
Industry recognized short term training certificates:
– WorldHost Customer Service
– Food Safe Level 1
– First Aid Level 1
– 8 weeks of one-to-one coaching and job-search support.

Location: YWCA WorkBC Employment Services Centre (address below)

Offered 5 times per year – please contact for more information!

This program is government funded and FREE of charge!

Strive is a lifeskills program for youth transitioning out of care to adulthood. This 12 week program consists of lifeskills workshops which are aimed at improving physical, mental, spiritual and emotional wellbeing. Strive supports youth to develop customized goals related to employment, housing, education and health.

Participants must be:
– 17-24 years of age
– Transitioning /transitioned out of care (foster care, group home, youth agreement)
– In need of support to move ahead
– Working less than 20 hours per week

Program highlights include lifeskills workshops, activities, customized action plans, goal setting, one-to-one support, paid job placements and ongoing support.

Interested in making a movie in the summer? The Indie Filmmakers Lab is a two-week filmmaking program for aspiring independent filmmakers, ages 14-19 held at the SFU School for the Contemporary Arts in Vancouver.

They invite passionate, bold, risk-taking artists who are eager to be inspired, develop their craft, and create a short film to be proud of.

Both the City of North Vancouver and the District of North Vancouver offer full bursaries to youth or families experiencing financial need.

Apply online at www.indielab.ca

Education and Employment Access (EEA) is a full time, 8 month program operating within the School of Access and Academic Preparation at Cap U. Students with learning difficulties or other barriers to reaching their goals will be offered specific support in their transition to post-secondary education and employment.

The focus will be on developing the skills and strategies necessary to be an independent learner in a university setting. Students will finish with a professional portfolio, certifications, strategies for success in first year courses and current experience in the sector of their choice.

The Discover Employability program is a transitional program for students moving from high school to a post-secondary and/or workplace environment. Students explore a range of possible work areas and identify those that match their abilities and interest. Depending on their readiness, after completing this 8-month program they may go on to further skills training or be referred to a supported employment agency.

The program is designed for young adults with special learning needs. They are coached on the expectations of entry-level employment. Students are given an opportunity to build self awareness and self advocacy skills and work towards being more independent.

The DE program combines in-class instruction with practical work experience, emphasizing the skills required to be successful in employment situations. Students meet with faculty to discuss an individual work experience plan that best fits their needs. Personal goals will be set and monitored throughout the year.

The DE program is in session for eight months (two terms). The fall term includes one three week work experience block and twelve weeks of classroom instruction. During the spring term, there are two work experience blocks totalling nine weeks, and five weeks of classroom instruction.

Upon completion of the program, each student will meet individually with faculty to discuss their progress and to identify future plans and resources related to the students goals.

Studio in the City is an annual program that provides youth with opportunities to apprentice in the arts on various canvases and landscapes throughout the City of North Vancouver.

Studio in the City is a City of North Vancouver youth employment program that partners with supporters of the arts; including Lonsdale Quay Market, Artists for Kids, the Vancouver Biennale, and the Digital Media Academy.

Runs every summer from June – August.

WorkBC’s North Shore Youth Centre is a drop-in resource centre providing FREE services for male and female jobseekers aged 16 to 30.

Conveniently located behind Capilano Mall on Vancouver’s North Shore, it provides an extensive range of services and friendly employment counsellors.

Wired 4 Success is a North Shore employment program funded through Service Canada designed specifically for youth ages 16 to 30 with barriers to employment.  Youth attend for 13 weeks and are paid a training allowance at minimum wage based on a 30-hour week.

The first 4 weeks consist of on-site training, followed by 9 weeks of work experience. The goal of the program is to get participants employed, return to school or a combination of the two. The objectives of the program are to help youth overcome barriers to employment and develop a broad range of skills and knowledge to access employment opportunities with private sector employers.

While attending the program youth learn many skills that assist them in gaining employment along with life skills related to employment and independence. Youth receive their Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), Food Safe and Basic First Aid certification along with some capacity to offer individual skills enhancement such as forklift operation, or other related certification needed as a condition of employment.

This program is well-suited for youth who lack work experience or employment skills and who face barriers to employment including but not limited to; mental health, disadvantaged background, or lack of education/training.

For more information and/or, to set up an appointment please contact us at 604-988-1292.

Get Connected provides one-on-one education and employment support, group workshops, targeted conversation practice, settlement support, group outings, and connections to community.

Various different programs and workshop are taking place throughout the year and one-on-one support service is available all year around.

For more information, contact Youth Outreach Worker.

Are you in grades 8-12? Interested in getting involved with your Library? Come to the Teen Advisory Group at the Lynn Valley Public Library.

TAG is made up of teens who want to have a say in their library. What do you want teen services and spaces to look like? Have any suggestions for how we can improve and promote our collections? This is the place for you; we also do fun and creative stuff, buy books and more. And no meeting is complete without food! TAG meets once a month during the school year.

See the library’s website for days and times.

Develop your leadership skills while having fun helping to plan and promote technology workshops and other events for teens. You will also get a chance to provide input on teen services and materials at the Library.

Beginning on December 18th you may register for the Winter 2016 session of this volunteer opportunity on the North Van City Library’s website .

Joining TAG gives you a voice in what happens at the library. They are a fun, open, awesome group of teens that are always welcoming new members!

As part of the group, you will:

Suggest materials for the library to purchase;
Help promote and run teen programs;
Get creative about what you’d like teen services at the library to look like;
Meet other teens in the community;
Earn volunteer hours;
Give your resumes a boost of community engagement.

They also do fun things like tie-dye t-shirt parties, movie nights, karaoke and more!

Meetings are once a month (usually Wednesday evenings) in the Storyhouse on the second floor; there is no need to register – you can just show up! Check out the Teen Events page for the next meeting date.

Supported by the West Vancouver Police Department and co-facilitated by Youth Services, youth involved in SWAT are exposed to leadership skills, communication strategies, civic responsibility, cultural awareness and modern policing leadership and methods.

Supported by West Vancouver Youth Services and the Health and Fitness team, Youth POWR focuses on assisting with program development as it relates to the overall health and wellness of youth in West Vancouver Community Centres.

Supported by West Vancouver Youth Services, YAC focuses on youths’ interest in politics and local government as future voters and community leaders. Attend a monthly Council meeting and engage with their Council liaison.

CityFEST started in 2002 when the City of North Vancouver threw a party with some youth serving agencies to celebrate the opening of the Centennial Skate Park. That party included a BBQ and a small skate competition. Since that time, CityFEST has grown to include performing artists, visual arts displays, interactive projects, food and the largest skate competition in Metro Vancouver. The festival, which is held annually during Youth Week, is run by youth, for youth – volunteers meet throughout the year to plan, coordinate and execute the event.

Studio in the City is an annual program that provides youth with opportunities to apprentice in the arts on various canvases and landscapes throughout the City of North Vancouver.

Studio in the City is a City of North Vancouver youth employment program that partners with supporters of the arts; including Lonsdale Quay Market, Artists for Kids, the Vancouver Biennale, and the Digital Media Academy.

Runs every summer from June – August.

This is a training program & community service for youth between the ages of 6 – 18. On a weekly basis, youth members attend 2 hour meetings in which they are trained in Standard & Medical First Responder First Aid skills, leadership and interpersonal skills and various educational proficiencies to widen their range of individual knowledge & skills. It also offers youth the opportunity to volunteer at local community events which require first aid coverage.

Neonology is an award-winning series of workshops that focuses on demonstrating the power we have to stop discrimination and racism in our communities. The Neonology program has been presented to over 12,000 elementary and secondary school students since 2009.

This program offers: workshops to youth in schools (Gr. 6 & 7 and Gr. 9 & 10); youth leadership camp and training; and workshops for teachers, staff, youth workers and parents. This program supports participants to explore their ideas and roles in creating racism-free and inclusive environments.

Neonology Programs include:
– Neonology workshop for youth in grades 6 & 7 and grades 9 & 10
– Neonology for adults
– Summer Youth Leadership Camp

Family Services of the North Shore offers an annual youth volunteer program. Youth Leadership Advisory Board (Youth-LAB) helps reach at-risk youth. Youth volunteers advise staff on new youth outreach strategies for the agency to decrease barriers for youth accessing help and/or counselling services. A new group of youth volunteers is selected every spring for a September start. The Youth-LAB program is open to 15 – 18 year old North Shore high school students interested in mental health and it runs September to June.

The North Vancouver School District acknowledges and honours the history and culture of the Skwxwú7mesh and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations in whose territory we reside. The Skwxwú7mesh Nation, Tsleil-Waututh First Nation and Métis Nation of British Columbia are key partners in ensuring success for students of Indigenous ancestry.
The North Vancouver School District’s Indigenous Education Program delivers culturally-appropriate educational programs and services to support the academic and personal success of students who self-identify as being of Indigenous ancestry. The term “Indigenous ancestry” embraces all First Nations, status and non-status; Inuit; and Métis peoples.

ACCESS is an alternate school program designed to provide an opportunity for students who are experiencing significant difficulties within the regular school system to complete the requirements for high school graduation. This program is only an option once supports in the students’ regular secondary schools have been implemented with limited success and, therefore, requires a referral.

Admission is through an interview process with the ACCESS team, including Maureen Lee, District Administrator – Student Support Services, and Steve Rauh, Principal of West Vancouver Secondary School.

For more information please contact Student Support Services at (604) 981-1095.

Mountainside Secondary School (MSS) is the North Vancouver School District’s smallest and newest secondary school, meeting the Ministry of Education requirements for funding as an Alternative School (BCEDAlternate Program Policy).

MSS functions as part of the continuum of social/emotional/behavioural supports that are available to all students at all secondary schools in the NVSD, and targets students in Grades 9-12 (ages 14-19). MSS aims to allow for varied and alternate pathways to graduation (80 credit or Adult) or School Completion, and beyond.

Features include:
– Student to teacher ratio of approximately 15:1,
– Creative, non-punitive, restorative approach to solving problems
– Strong community partnerships with: Vancouver Coastal Health, Ministry of Children and Family Development, Parkgate, Capilano, and North Shore Neighbourhood House Youth Services
– Access to both on-site doctor and nurse
– Broad range of elective offerings

Check out their Facebook page, too! www.facebook.com/mountainside2013

The Eslha7an Youth program is open to First Nations students aged 14 to 19. Up to 20 students are enrolled in individualized programs that include the core academic subjects of English, Math, Social Studies and Science at grades 9–12, as well as an elective of Cultural Art, a program developed in partnership with the Squamish Nation. Students learn the Squamish language, history and cultural traditions, and participate in traditional handcrafts in the classroom, in a longhouse program and through outdoor activities. Guest speakers and local field trips focus on healthy lifestyles and community involvement.

Many students also work on the ArrowMight learning system, a remedial English and Math program based on Canadian and First Nations history and geography.

Students work towards the 80 credit Dogwood graduation program or the Adult Dogwood Certificate. Additional course credits can be earned through Distributed Learning, with the Youth Teacher providing help as needed.

The Therapeutic Day Program (TDP) is a partnership between the North Vancouver School District and Vancouver Coastal Health. Our program combines academics with clinical support for students whose mental health concerns have interfered with their learning. Our goal is to help students learn to manage their mental health symptoms and engage in a supportive educational program. TDP is a short-term program designed to provide students with the skills they need to be successful in a full-time school program.

Referrals to TDP are initiated by the either the School Based Resource Team (SBRT) at one of the mainstream high-schools in North and West Vancouver, or by a clinician or psychiatrist at Vancouver Coastal Health. Students coming from outside of the North or West Vancouver School Districts will need to first register with the school district at the NVSD Education Services Centre at 2121 Lonsdale Ave. All referrals for TDP will be screened by the District Resource Team and Vancouver Coastal Health for appropriate fit, with priority given to students from the North Vancouver School District.

The Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) Program is a school-based outreach program that helps newcomer students and their families settle into their North and West Vancouver school and community. SWIS Workers meet with students and families one-on-one to provide support and to facilitate meetings between families, students and school staff. Workshops are held to provide information and support for students and families in a group setting.

Workshop topics for parents include:
• Back-to-School Essentials for parents of elementary school students
• Back-to-School Essentials for parents of high school students
• English Language Learning Orientation
• Orientation to Report Cards/grading system, etc.
• Post-Secondary Education Information
• Information session on Graduation Requirements
• Transition to High School Information
• Summer Learning Information
• North Shore Summer Activities

Youth Workshops/Programs:
• Back-to-School Essentials for elementary school/high school students
• Expression! (for youth aged 8-12 years)
• NEONology Leadership Training (for high school youth)
• Girls Group (for females in high school)

SWIS services for parents are available in Farsi, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Tagalog, French and English. There is access to interpretation services for other languages as needed. The youth programs are offered in English.

The KEY Program supports youth in grades 8 – 10. Students pursue their junior high school education in an environment designed to help them engage in social, emotional and academic learning. The program is intended for youth who struggle with the requirements of the mainstream school system, and have difficulty connecting with the traditional classroom environment, structure, and behavioural expectations.

Three agencies (NVSD, Hollyburn, and PLEA) collaborate to provide each student with direct external support services on an individualized needs basis. Staff offer a holistic approach—taking into account the student’s performance at school, as well as the contributing factors of home and community life that affect each student’s outlook.

Referrals to KEY are initiated by the School Based Resource Team (SBRT) at one of the 6 mainstream high-schools in North Vancouver. Students coming from out of district will need to first register with the school district at the NVSD Education Services Centre at 2121 Lonsdale Ave. All out of district requests for Mountainside Secondary School will be screened by the District Resource Team for appropriate fit, with priority given to students from the North Vancouver School District.

Any further inquiries can be directed to Jeremy Church, Principal of Mountainside Secondary School, at 604-903-3333 or by e-mailing jchurch@nvsd44.bc.ca, or Brad Baker, District Principal, at 604-903-3444, or by e-mailing bbaker@nvsd44.bc.ca.

The West Vancouver School District is comprised of 14 elementary and 3 secondary institutions, one alternate school (A.C.C.E.S.S. – Alternate Career and Continuing Education for Secondary Students).

The three secondary schools are: Rockridge (IB MYP), Ecole Sentinel and West Vancouver (IB Diploma).

There are seven secondary schools in the North Vancouver School District: Argyle, Carson Graham, Handsworth, Seycove, Sutherland, Windsor and Mountainside (Alternate Secondary School).

The school district also has 25 elementary schools, Continuing Education and Distributed Learning (online courses for Grades 10, 11 and 12).

SPECTRUM SKATEBOARD SOCIETY IS ALL ABOUT HAVING A  FUN, SAFE, AND INCLUSIVE SKATEBOARDING EXPERIENCE.

All of our instructors are Level 1 certified skateboard instructors with the International Skateboard Certification Program (ISCP).  During our lessons, we not only teach skateboarding skills, but we also teach how to positively communicate with the other skateboard park users, as well as how to skateboard socially with your fellow skate camp friends.  Click the button below for available lessons and camps.  At this time all lessons and camps are located in North Vancouver.

Spectrum has volunteer opportunities available for skateboard instructor helpers and general volunteers to help with set-up and clean up.  Skateboard skills are a bonus but not required.

Harvest Project is a community-based urban relief organization and registered Canadian charity. We connect with more than 1000 people each month – as we provide one-to-one client-coaching and active-listening, a rent bank, a grocery-support program, clothing supports, assistance for workforce re-entry, food-recovery and redistribution, and our retail Clothes For Change Thrift Boutique. All supported by volunteers and donors from every corner of the North Shore.

Harvest Project serves Metro-Vancouver’s North Shore, ‘extending a hand up’ to those in need. We provide assistance to residents from Deep Cove in the east to Horseshoe Bay in the west. Our vision is to enlarge our work as a compassionate presence for North Shore residents, by North Shore residents. We’re working to help the North Shore become the most inclusive, healthy and diverse community in Canada. We aim to collaborate with the other excellent services and not-for-profit agencies operating in our community.

In one of the wealthiest regions in Canada, critical family needs are often hidden and services are scarce for those who find themselves in desperate times. About 1 in 5 North Shore families are headed by a lone-parent – representing thousands of people. These families, and many others, are at-risk of losing access to physical, social and economic resources and opportunities.

Since 1993, Harvest Project has been reaching out to those who are experiencing extreme challenges with family break-downs, illness, job loss, and poverty. Our founder, David Foster, was a young West Vancouver business-person who fell on hard-times, found himself ‘on the street’, and was offered assistance by several local churches and other organizations. He came to embrace a Christian faith and felt inspired to begin Harvest Project as an expression of the Biblical principles of solidarity with those in poverty, caring for marginalized people, and seeking justice for neighbours in-need.

Teen Volunteer opportunities at the North Vancouver City Library include Teen Advisory Council, Teen Initiated Programs, Teen Art and Promotion Group, Homework Buddies, Lego Robotics Mentors, Reading Buddies, and Library Events.

Volunteer registration is on a first-come, first-served, basis.

The North Vancouver District Public Library has 3 locations where you can find great reading, watching and listening suggestions; study space & research help; volunteer opportunities, and more.

The youth initiative of the Community Dialogue Series at North Shore Restorative Justice is the Speak Out Series. These are dialogue events for youth and youth supporters. These events use circle process and experiential activities and games to explore and unpack the topics at hand. NSRJS aims to hold three speak out events each year.

The topics of each event are ideas presented to us by the community, and youth themselves. Therefore, if you have an idea for a Speak out Series, please email us at info@nsrj.ca.

In NSRJ’s Circles in Schools program, trained facilitators lead children through a series of games and activities that are developmentally appropriate and result in a greater understanding of themselves and others. This leads to deeper relationships, and a stronger community. Sharing stories in a safe, non-judgmental environment gives children a voice. When they feel as though they belong, that their voice matters, they are empowered to make a difference. And a core component of the circle process is the uninterrupted opportunity for each member of the circle to share his or her story. Children learn to be active, involved listeners. The use of a talking piece allows for unhurried, respectful sharing. The circle encourages openness, honesty, and the opportunity to slow down and reconnect with the core self.

Circles in Schools is a strengths-based program that gives our children and youth the skills to transform conflict, heal relationships, and create stronger communities themselves.

Are you in grades 8-12? Interested in getting involved with your Library? Come to the Teen Advisory Group at the Lynn Valley Public Library.

TAG is made up of teens who want to have a say in their library. What do you want teen services and spaces to look like? Have any suggestions for how we can improve and promote our collections? This is the place for you; we also do fun and creative stuff, buy books and more. And no meeting is complete without food! TAG meets once a month during the school year.

See the library’s website for days and times.

Are you a tween in grade 5, 6 or 7? Want to volunteer to make the Library awesome? Have fun sharing your ideas and plan cool events in the Library. They meet on the last Thursday of every month.

You can register online at www.nvcl.ca or in person at the Children’s department desk.

Contact Kate Longley to register to receive reminders and more information about Tween programs in the Library.

Develop your leadership skills while having fun helping to plan and promote technology workshops and other events for teens. You will also get a chance to provide input on teen services and materials at the Library.

Beginning on December 18th you may register for the Winter 2016 session of this volunteer opportunity on the North Van City Library’s website .

Many of the programs and workshops at Impact North Shore require the help of established resident volunteers. Opportunities include mock employment interviews, mentoring, English language practice, and participation in informational and social activities with newcomers. INS values the diverse skills that its volunteers bring to the organization.

Newcomers who want to volunteer their time can learn about volunteering in Canada and how to connect to volunteer opportunities in the community. They gain relevant Canadian experience, but also act as role models to other newcomers, showing them that they too can make a positive contribution to their new community.

The North Shore Youth Volunteer Directory is a valuable resource for young people interested in volunteering within the community, particularly on the North Shore. The directory provides useful information regarding volunteer opportunities for youths between the ages of 12 – 19 in the City of North Vancouver and the Districts of North and West Vancouver. North Shore Community Resources publishes the directory annually, creating an up-to-date and easy-to-use resource. A variety of volunteer positions are listed ranging from environmental activism to office work and everything in between. There are positions to meet everyone’s interests and availability, within both long and short term time frames.

Go to the North Shore Community Resources website to download a PDF version of the directory.

Joining TAG gives you a voice in what happens at the library. They are a fun, open, awesome group of teens that are always welcoming new members!

As part of the group, you will:

Suggest materials for the library to purchase;
Help promote and run teen programs;
Get creative about what you’d like teen services at the library to look like;
Meet other teens in the community;
Earn volunteer hours;
Give your resumes a boost of community engagement.

They also do fun things like tie-dye t-shirt parties, movie nights, karaoke and more!

Meetings are once a month (usually Wednesday evenings) in the Storyhouse on the second floor; there is no need to register – you can just show up! Check out the Teen Events page for the next meeting date.

Impact North Shore (formerly North Shore Multicultural Society) helps youth and their families learn about and understand the systems and services available in Canada. They are a not-for-profit agency providing a full range of individual and group services including: settlement information and orientation, English language, employment and diversity services. Their mission is to help you achieve a working knowledge of Canadian social, economic and cultural systems.

The INS Youth Department has been serving school ages youth and emerging adults on the North Shore since 2001. Through a hands-on approach, diverse and experienced staff are committed to creating safe spaces of engagement and growth.

Programming meets youths’ needs wherever they may be in their journey, either through group work or one-on-one support. They strive to promote inclusion, community, diversity, education and volunteerism.

Youth Unlimited North Shore (YU North Shore) is the only organization on the North Shore that cares for the physical, mental, social, emotional, and spiritual needs of vulnerable youth in the community and the local church.

YU North Shore provides a multitude of opportunities for fun and transformational connection for local youth (Ages 10 to 24) through relevant programs (TACO Tuesday boardgames night, Mental Health Discussion Group), community partnerships (City Fest, Mobile Youth Drop-In RV), school partnerships (After-School Jams, Cooking Club) and long-term one-on-one mentorships.

Youth Unlimited is a faith-based organization and is interested in genuine connections with young people to support them on their turf with the help they need. YU North Shore staff seek to provide relational care that is consistent, understanding, authentic, non-judgmental, and empathetic.

CityFEST started in 2002 when the City of North Vancouver threw a party with some youth serving agencies to celebrate the opening of the Centennial Skate Park. That party included a BBQ and a small skate competition. Since that time, CityFEST has grown to include performing artists, visual arts displays, interactive projects, food and the largest skate competition in Metro Vancouver. The festival, which is held annually during Youth Week, is run by youth, for youth – volunteers meet throughout the year to plan, coordinate and execute the event.

This is a training program & community service for youth between the ages of 6 – 18. On a weekly basis, youth members attend 2 hour meetings in which they are trained in Standard & Medical First Responder First Aid skills, leadership and interpersonal skills and various educational proficiencies to widen their range of individual knowledge & skills. It also offers youth the opportunity to volunteer at local community events which require first aid coverage.

The North Vancouver City Library offers services and programming for pre-teens and teens, 7 days a week. Regular programs typically include Drop-in Gaming events, Robotics, Book Clubs, Movie Screenings, Homework Help, Parties, the Annual Kilby Memorial Teen Art Contest, Gaming Tournaments, Teen Summer Reading Club, and a variety of fun and unique events and contests throughout the year.

The library offers an extensive physical and digital collection of books, movies & TV, games, graphic novels, magazines, Manga, and more. Library staff are here to help you find and use resources for all of your needs, from learning to entertainment.

Family Services of the North Shore offers an annual youth volunteer program. Youth Leadership Advisory Board (Youth-LAB) helps reach at-risk youth. Youth volunteers advise staff on new youth outreach strategies for the agency to decrease barriers for youth accessing help and/or counselling services. A new group of youth volunteers is selected every spring for a September start. The Youth-LAB program is open to 15 – 18 year old North Shore high school students interested in mental health and it runs September to June.

The West Vancouver Memorial Library offers an inclusive, welcoming environment for youth of all ages.

Wireless access is free throughout the building and there is space for silent study and group work. Teen space offers books, DVDs, magazines, audiobooks and playaways. Students in Grades 8-12 can earn volunteer hours by participating in the Teen Advisory Group or Teen Volunteer Program.

Restorative Justice is a philosophy that looks at crime and conflict as a breakdown between people and relationships. Restorative Justice acknowledges that when a crime occurs it impacts the victim, community, and offender, and therefore in order to resolve or to start to heal the harm, all people affected need to be part of the conversation.

North Shore Restorative Justice understands that each individual file is different and thus works to build a restorative process around the needs of the victim, community, and offender. In order for a file to be referred to North Shore Restorative Justice, the person who has been harmed (i.e. the victim) must want to participate in restorative justice, as well as the person responsible for the harm needs to take responsibility and want to participate in restorative justice. It is imperative to the process that participation in restorative justice is voluntary on all accounts as well as confidential.

PLEA’s vision is a world where everyone has the opportunity for a good life, and where everyone counts. To fulfil this vision PLEA delivers unique services, tailored to individual strengths and needs, to children, youth, adults and families facing significant challenges so that they may live fulfilling lives within their communities.

Services are available in English and Farsi

If you or your loved one is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. If the situation involves imminent safety risks or a possible threat of violence, police may be required to respond.

PACT is a mobile civilian-led team that will respond to crisis calls related to mental health and/or substance use on the North Shore. The program pairs a mental health professional and a peer worker to provide trauma-informed, culturally safe support to youth aged 13+ or adults in the North Shore.  Call 1-888-261-7228 or text 778-839-1831.

PACT is your local support team that you can reach out to when you or someone around you is in distress due to:

• thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• family members experiencing challenges
• substance use
• loss of reality
• feelings of hopelessness or despair
• social isolation and loneliness
• fear, anxiety, and depression
• other mental health-related emergencies

How we can help:

• Offer support to you or your loved one over the phone, text, or in-person wherever you feel comfortable
• Listen without judgement and provide a safe space for you to share your story and tell us what is going on
• Provide crisis counselling and de-escalation
• Advocate for you and accompany you to emergency departments, police stations, or community organizations
• Connect you to the appropriate resources, services and supports in the community to meet your underlying needs
• Provide short-term follow-up care to you and your family after a crisis event

What we cannot do:

• Transport you or your loved one from one place to another in the staff vehicle (if needed, transportation will be provided through taxi services)
• Perform psychological assessments to diagnose mental illnesses or write prescriptions for medication
• Make referrals to psychiatrists or other medical specialists for specific treatments for mental or physical health conditions (but we can help you to access primary care)
• Fast-track applications for housing, income or disability assistance, or mental health services.

INCLUSIVITY exists to help you manage diversity within your company or community. We provide a range of services to help you develop best practices, remain up to date, innovate, and engage your employees or community members to create the best outcomes for all stakeholders.

The youth initiative of the Community Dialogue Series at North Shore Restorative Justice is the Speak Out Series. These are dialogue events for youth and youth supporters. These events use circle process and experiential activities and games to explore and unpack the topics at hand. NSRJS aims to hold three speak out events each year.

The topics of each event are ideas presented to us by the community, and youth themselves. Therefore, if you have an idea for a Speak out Series, please email us at info@nsrj.ca.

In NSRJ’s Circles in Schools program, trained facilitators lead children through a series of games and activities that are developmentally appropriate and result in a greater understanding of themselves and others. This leads to deeper relationships, and a stronger community. Sharing stories in a safe, non-judgmental environment gives children a voice. When they feel as though they belong, that their voice matters, they are empowered to make a difference. And a core component of the circle process is the uninterrupted opportunity for each member of the circle to share his or her story. Children learn to be active, involved listeners. The use of a talking piece allows for unhurried, respectful sharing. The circle encourages openness, honesty, and the opportunity to slow down and reconnect with the core self.

Circles in Schools is a strengths-based program that gives our children and youth the skills to transform conflict, heal relationships, and create stronger communities themselves.

Provides services to youth in conflict with the law, including Extra Judicial Sanctions (diversion from the Court System) and Bail and Probation Supervision. Youth Probation Officers assist youth in following conditions of their court orders, including arranging Community Service Work and making referrals where appropriate.

Youth Probation is under the Ministry of Children & Family Development. Services such as Intensive Supervision and Support, Curfew Monitoring, Bail and Residential Homes are provided by PLEA.

Dare Attendance provides a community-based full-time attendance program (four to six months in duration) for young people on a sentencing order as an alternative to custody. The individual case plans address the educational, vocational and personal development needs of each participant. Family caregivers provide structure, supervision and support in a family setting. PLEA provides safe placements and assists the young person, and wherever possible their family, to develop and implement long-term plans. Residents are actively involved in day to day activities in the family care home as well as in the community. Residents and their families may receive post placement support for up to two months to facilitate their transition home or to independent living.

PLEA’s Youth Justice Services are alternatives to custody for young people who are involved with the Youth Justice system. Their programs adhere to the requirements of the Youth Criminal Justice Act and support the safe rehabilitation of the young people while minimizing the use of custody.

Their programs include:
– Dare Attendance
– Short Term Bail/Respite
– Intensive Support and Supervision

West Vancouver Police Youth Liaison officers work year round with youth, parents, and community partners including West Vancouver Public and Private Schools, West Vancouver Youth Services, the Squamish First Nation and Vancouver Coastal Health.

Along with support of preventive education in schools, and working toward a better understanding between youth and police, WVPD Youth Liaison officers also work to identify youth at risk and work with our partners to support coordinated community responses to those youth.

The WVPD Youth Liaison team for 2015-2016 includes Sergeant Braithwaite, Corporal Nick Bell, Constable Jeff Wood and Constable Matt Plant.

Please do not hesitate to contact the WVPD Youth Liaison Section at 604-925-7300. West Vancouver Police encourage parents to participate in ePolicing For Parents.

West Vancouver Police Victim Services Program provides information, support and referrals to victims/witnesses and their families of crime and/or tragedy.

Support – provide short term support to victims/witnesses and their families of crime and/or tragedy.

Information – Provide information on the status of the police investigation and the court process.

Referrals – Provide information on referrals to Community agencies and services.

Court Support – Provide ongoing support and accompany upon request, victims/witnesses and their families through the Court process.

Assistance – Provide assistance with the Voluntary applications and forms; Victim Impact Statements, Crime Victim Assistance Program and Restitution forms.

A peaceful approach to crime and conflict that seeks to address the needs of victims, offenders and communities by offering processes that encourage dialogue, reparation and healing.

Restorative Justice offers:

An opportunity to tell your story
A chance to explain how you have been impacted
A safe, caring and respectful place to share your story
Involvement and support through a problem-solving approach
Conflict resolution and a chance to repair relationships
A better understanding of the incident and its impacts
An opportunity to take responsibility for one’s actions
Meaningful outcomes and an opportunity for closure

The North Vancouver Youth Support Team (YST) is made up of dedicated officers assigned to a total of 48 schools reaching over 20,000 students in the City and District of North Vancouver. The officers act as a resource for teachers, parents, and youth. These officers work closely with the schools as well as the local community youth services and centres.

Examples of some presentations delivered by YST officers are: Criminal Law/Court System, Criminal Offences, Drug and Alcohol Awareness, Driving Safety, and Internet Safety.

The goal of every YST officer is to have early and positive relationships and establish themselves as great role models for our North Vancouver youth.