A program long in the making to help support Cochrane youth throughout their teen and transitional years is up and rolling.

Kevin McConnach, Youth Outreach Worker for Boys and Girls Club, says now that everything is coming together they are looking forward to connecting with youth who are facing a wide variety of challenges without a support system.

McConnach’s background of working with at risk youth in group homes and as a family support worker makes him a natural leader to head up this program.  The program will not only help support youth who are facing serious issues such as at risk homelessness and drug use but will also take referrals for kids dealing with bullying, social connection issues, as well as learning valuable transitional skills into adulthood.

The program was originally going to help youth ages 12 to 18, but McConnach feels the benefits could be extended to young adults up to 24. “The more we thought about it that transition to adulthood piece, we all knew from our experience that just when you’re 18 doesn’t mean you’re ready to go out into the world. So we opened it up 12-24, but with that being said we’re not going to turn any one away. We’re going to do whatever we can to support everyone who comes through our door.”

Working closely with both Cochrane schools systems, Family Community Support Services, Alberta Health Services, and programs like Safe Coach; McConnach is hopeful interagency collaboration will help youth beyond just one-dimensional support.  Therapy could occur individually, as a family or in a group situation and will be tailored to specific need.

Another focus for McConnach is trying to keep youth on the right track before taking questionable risks. “We see this as a prevention piece instead of just reacting to problems as they happen.  I really believe that without a strong mentor or role model in your life that is when youth can go down a path of crime and delinquency.”

McConnach is hopeful this new initiative will take off despite past attempts that have struggled. “I can’t really speak to much of the past but I do know that we’re really excited to get going. We know the need has been identified by the community and we’re really responding to what we’re hearing.”

If you are a youth struggling or know someone who could use support you can email McConnach at youtreach@bgccochrane.ca  or phone 403-618-3149.