Youth Diversions

In partnership with the Ottawa Police Service and the Boys and Girls Club, the Youth Diversion program provides a culturally-aware prevention and intervention program to youth aged 12 to 18. Our goal is to enhance youth resiliency by emphasizing healthy choices learned through a culturally-structured support system. In collaboration with Ottawa-based organizations, our priority is to reduce the over-representation of Aboriginal youth in the criminal justice system by identifying the risk factors that may lead youth to criminal behaviour.

Through on-going education and advocacy efforts, the Youth Diversion program’s mission is to reconnect Aboriginal youth to their traditional cultural practices. When embraced, the values of peace, mutual respect and community are naturally protective against criminal behaviour. By focusing on the risk and protective factors associated with high-risk behaviours, the Youth Diversion program builds upon the individual’s strengths and interests. Our service delivery will range from individual support strategies to group-oriented goals, which will ensure the mature development of our youth.

The Wabano Youth Diversion Program reaches out to Aboriginals who are:

• Male or female aged 12 to 18
• Youth in conflict with the law
• Youth at risk of coming into conflict with the law
• Gang involved youth
• Homeless youth

For further information regarding the Youth Diversion program, please feel free to contact:

Jacob Cree
Youth Diversions Worker
Wabano Centre of Aboriginal Health
(613) 748 – 0657 ext. 225
jcree@wabano.com