Purpose
The purpose of this panel was to highlight the experiences and expertise of operational leaders involved in the implementation of Integrated Youth Services.
Theme
The successes, challenges, and lessons learned from the development and implementation of Integrated Youth Services across contexts.
Moderator
Reshma Shiwcharran - Youth Provincial Advisory Council Member, Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario
Mahalia Dixon - Youth Provincial Advisory Council Member, Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario
Panelists
Cynthia Bell-Clayton - Executive Director, ENAGB (Eshkiniigjik Naandwechigegamig Aabiish Gaa Binjibaaying) Indigenous Youth Agency
Ron Goguen - Senior Project Manager, Province of New Brunswick's Health Department
Jessica Hutton - Executive Director, Camrose Open Door Association
Key Learnings
- Youth and/or their families are able to access Camrose Open Door Association’s services 24/7, 365 days a year. When they enter through the doors, youth and/or family members are supported by a ‘Navigator’ who is responsible for greeting them, collecting their consent and information, and identifying their needs. Individuals only tell their story once to the navigator, who then brings together community collaborators to share that information through appropriately established consent, and information sharing protocols. This group then identifies how they can work together to best support the individual, thus enabling the navigator to triage them accordingly.
- Currently, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) does not include or acknowledge Intergenerational Trauma. Intergenerational Trauma is real, and agencies need to take it into consideration when working with Indigenous youth. ENAGB (Eshkiniigjik Naandwechigegamig Aabiish Gaa Binjibaaying) is fighting for this change in practice as an Indigenous Youth Agency.
- Ensure Scalability: Many great program which produce successful outcomes can quickly reach a point were scalability issues arise. Voltage drop is a common cause, by which the level of passion expressed by individuals involved in pilot projects is difficult to replicate and almost certainly a challenge at larger scales.
Quotes
“Anyone can refer to us, 365 days a year. We will provide services immediately to meet youth needs.” Jessica Hutton
“I actually jumped out of a plane with our youth. You get first hand information from youth by doing these types of experiences with them and building connections and relationships.” Cynthia Bell-Clayton
“While collaboration and integration are so important for this work, the importance of a clear well communicated strategy cannot be understated. Partner engagement will waiver if goals are unclear.” Ron Goguen
