Youth Programming

The transition from childhood to adulthood is a time of tremendous change, with new challenges and responsibilities. It is particularly tumultuous for young people who have been affected by trauma, poverty, violence, resettlement and discrimination. They need extra support and guidance to develop their core abilities and lead successful lives.

WoodGreen offers a spectrum of social, recreational, leadership, mental health and employment programs for marginalized youth 13 to 29, to remove barriers, engage young people in their community and help them fulfil their potential.

WoodGreen’s Free 2 Be is a housing support and intensive case management program that provides counselling, mentorship, education, life-skills training, social support, and employment help for young people who — at age 18 — often “age out” of the child welfare system with bleak futures.

Your support will allow:

• Expansion of WoodGreen’s Free 2 Be program to transition youth exiting foster care with supportive housing, wrap around services and intensive case management support.
• Enhanced outreach and services in a new Youth Wellness Centre to increase access to mental health, social and recreational programs for low-income, newcomer and other vulnerable youth. These inclusive programs decrease isolation and build confidence, good mental health and leadership skills —and create brighter futures.
• Enhanced skills training and employment support. By providing a range of employment support and building critical soft and hard skills, WoodGreen helps to position youth to be competitive in a changing and increasingly challenging labour market, matching them with entry level opportunities and supporting their career development.

Learn more about Youth Programming here