Youth Outreach

The Programs

Middle Schools—Throughout the year a Dam staff is in every grade 7 and 8 classroom at our two local middle schools. During our time with these students we talk about making positive life choices and explore some of the obstacles facing our youth today including misconceptions of friendship, peer pressure, bullying, etc…

High schools—We maintain a weekly presence either at lunch or after-school in the places where we know students from these local high schools will be hanging out. We are in the process of beginning to run weekly groups with female students in one of our local high schools.

Basketball Outreach - During the summer, we are at the local courts 4 times a week. We build respectful relationships with the youth who regularly play ball and participate in hours upon hours of basketball ourselves. This outreach culminates each summer in a community event including a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, live entertainment, free food and tons of fun! Over 500 people were able to enjoy this outreach event this year.

This two year pilot program is funded by the Ministry of Health Promotion and Active2010.

Speaking Engagements The Dam has regular speaking engagements outside of our immediate community, including 20 different schools last year. We have spoken at the Mayor's Youth Summit twice on the topic of bullying. We regularly attend the summer Co-operative Young Leaders camps to talk about youth issues.  We have also spoken to many educators and parents in a variety of settings.