Outreach Program

Navigating the teen years and transitioning into young adulthood can be challenging. With the rise of technology and external influences, young people face more pressures than ever before—often at a younger age. Youth Diversion’s Outreach Program is here to help by equipping youth with the skills and support needed to build resilience, set goals, and make informed decisions.

Service is funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation

Empowering Youth Through Proactive Support

Our Outreach Program provides education, mentorship, and skill-building opportunities designed to help youth navigate challenges and make positive life choices. Key focus areas include:

Decision-making and problem-solving skills
Goal setting and personal development
Effective communication and teamwork
Managing peer pressure and social influences
Online safety, sexting awareness, and digital citizenship
Respect, bullying prevention, and conflict resolution
Anger management and emotional regulation
Substance use awareness and prevention
Understanding theft, legal consequences, and accountability

Who Can Access Our Services?

Serving youth ages 6–26 who seek education and support in making healthier choices before challenges escalate. Through interactive sessions, participants gain the confidence to say no to peer pressure, advocate for themselves, and develop a strong sense of self-worth.

Specialized services are also available for some adults with intellectual disabilities.

Community Referrals Welcome

Youth Diversion accepts referrals from youth, parents, schools, and community partners. Every program and service we offer is available to any young person within Windsor/Essex County.

Beyond Outreach: Advocacy & Connections

Our team is committed to ensuring youth receive the best possible support by connecting them with additional programs and services throughout the region. We act as advocates, helping youth and families navigate available resources tailored to their specific needs.

Questions?
Let’s Talk.

FAQ

What ages does Youth Diversion serve?

Youth Diversion supports children, youth and young adults, ages 6 - 26. Some supports are designed for specific age groups, while others can be adapted based on individual needs. If you are unsure whether someone is eligible, contact us or submit a referral and our team can help determine the appropriate next step.

What happens after I submit a referral?

A member of the Youth Diversion team will review the referral and connect with the client and/or caregiver to learn more about their needs. From there, we determine the most appropriate support, program, or service plan.

Is Youth Diversion only for young people involved with police or the justice system?

No. Youth Diversion provides both youth justice services and prevention/early-intervention supports. Clients may be referred by families, schools, community partners, healthcare professionals, police, or other sources depending on the service.

Who can make a referral to Youth Diversion?

Referrals may come from parents and caregivers, schools, police, community partners, healthcare professionals, or through self-referral, depending on the service.

Do I need to know which program to refer someone to?

No. You are referring to Youth Diversion, not selecting a program yourself. Our team will help identify the most appropriate support based on the individual's needs, strengths, circumstances and goals.

Does Youth Diversion offer presentations and workshops?

Yes. We offer presentations and workshops for schools, children and youth, parents and caregivers, professionals, organizations and community groups. Topics include digital safety, bullying, substance awareness, financial literacy, professionalism and customized topics.

Outreach Program