John Howard Society of York Region

Youth Services

For more information on any of the programs listed below, please contact Nikki Hanson, Youth Services Program Manager. 

Contact information: 905-868-6205 

ysreferrals@jhsyork.ca

To make a referral to any of the below programs, please complete the following form:

Youth Services Referral Form

Ending the Cycle

Ending the Cycle (ETC) is a 10-week, cost-free early intervention program designed for young individuals aged 15-24 who have witnessed emotional or physical abuse, neglect, aggression, or high-risk behaviors within their familial environment. 

The program aims to foster positive behavioral change, help participants identify personal barriers, establish healthy boundaries, and examine belief systems related to domestic violence. This is achieved through weekly, structured modules that provide education, skill-building, and self-reflection opportunities.

Through interactive discussions, skill-building exercises, and supportive guidance, ETC provides a safe, inclusive space where young people can develop self-awareness, emotional resilience, and strategies for healthy relationships. 

For program inquiries, please contact 905-895-9943 ext. 300 or email ysinquiries@jhsyork.ca

If you are representing a school and are interested in offering this program to your students under the Collaborative Relationship for Extended Services (CRES) agreement, please contact Nikki Hanson nhanson@jhsyork.ca

 This project has been funded by Women and Gender Equality Canada 

 Women and Gender Equality Canada signatureCanada wordmark

Ending the Cycle

Youth Reintegration Program

The Youth Reintegration Program provides wrap-around case management support to youth ages 12-17 involved in the justice system. The goal is to enhance and extend support to youth involved with justice system to connect with supports to improve their outcomes in the community. This program focuses on providing specialized supports to build protective factors in youth through case management, 1:1 specialized counselling supports, intensive support, referrals to community resources, client advocacy and collaboration, and individual goal planning. 

The program addresses the need for

  • Acquiring stable housing and employment 
  • 1:1 clinical counselling supports
  • Accessing physical and mental health support
  • Employment support
  • Community connections
  • Social and emotional learning
  • Access to basic needs including food and rental assistance

Youth will work collaboratively with a reintegration worker and counsellor to support with goal planning, access to basic needs, and referrals to community resources.

The service is offered both virtually and in person. For program inquiries, please contact 905-895-9943 ext. 300 or email ysinquiries@jhsyork.ca

Funding is provided by the Youth Justice Fund- Department of Justice and  is available at no cost to participants.

Youth Reintegration Program

HYPE

The Healthy Youth Preventative Education (HYPE) Program is an evidence-based initiative designed to prevent violence and promote positive, healthy relationships among youth aged 11 to 25. Through small group sessions, the program addresses a wide range of risk behaviors and addiction-related challenges, equipping participants with the skills needed to foster healthier relationships and build social and emotional resilience. 

Program Benefits 

  • Encourages healthy relationship dynamics 
  • Addresses risk behaviors and promotes positive decision-making 
  • Supports social and emotional development 
  • Provides a safe and supportive environment for open discussion 

For more information on times and locations, please contact our office by calling 905-895-9943 ext. 300 or email ysinquiries@jhsyork.ca

If you are representing a school and are interested in offering this program to your students under the Collaborative Relationship for Extended Services (CRES) agreement, please contact Nikki Hanson nhanson@jhsyork.ca

HYPE Brochure

HYPE+

HYPE+ is an evidence-based program that helps build resiliency and promote well-being for 2SLGBTQ+ youth. HYPE+ offers small group sessions that promote positive mental health. In a safe space, youth engage in activities and generate discussion about what contributes to stress, well-being, and healthy relationships at school, home, and their community.

This program is ideal for youth aged 13-18.

For more information on times and locations, please contact our office by calling 905-895-9943 extension 300 or email ysinquiries@jhsyork.ca

If you are representing a school and are interested in offering this program to your students under the Collaborative Relationship for Extended Services (CRES) agreement, please contact Nikki Hanson nhanson@jhsyork.ca

Service Navigator program

The Service Navigator Program supports priority groups, including youth aged 6-26 who are at risk of criminal involvement, victimization, or gang affiliation. Service Navigators provide personalized support to help clients and their families overcome barriers to accessing services. Key responsibilities include: 

  • Assisting clients in navigating social services and community resources 
  • Providing emotional support to individuals and families 
  • Explaining complex terminology and service processes 
  • Referring individuals to specialized support services 
  • Coordinating with service providers to ensure continuity of care 
  • Addressing unique client needs with a client-centered approach 

This program operates in partnership with Routes Connecting Communities, which will recruit and train 12 Ambassadors to enhance community engagement and peer support. 

For program inquiries, please contact 905-895-9943 ext. 300 or email ysinquiries@jhsyork.ca

This program is funded by The Regional Municipality of York and is available at no cost to participants. 

Service Navigator Program Flyer