Overview

 Drop-in Programs

The at-risk youth of our community need a place where they can be accepted, supported and challenged to reach their full potential. In a society that is seeing an increase in violence, gangs, and addictions, there is a need for community places like The Dam that focus on prevention and deal with the root issues.

Young Moms Programs

Each year, we have 6-10 teen moms enter our first program. Most pregnant teens are out of their parents’ homes before the birth of their baby, and are receiving little or no family support. The Young Moms Program is a community of young moms, volunteers and staff that seek to be positive and supportive of each other, growing into healthy individuals and families, through weekly support groups and mentoring.

Outreach

Current youth culture is such that most youth have a positive attitude towards negative behaviours. The glamourizing and sensationalizing of drugs, sex, crime is very difficult to combat. Even for youth who understand the destructive potential of these habits, their desire to be liked and belong are a stronger pull than possible negative effects. The Dam speaks to 5,000 students a year, plus teachers, parents principals and vice principals to encourage youth to make positive life choices.