Questions?
Let’s Talk.
Oftentimes parents avoid talking about addiction and substance abuse with their kids under the presumption that it won’t happen to their kid. Listen to Joanna Conrad, Executive Director of Youth Diversion and Mike Brown, Founder of Spiritual Soldiers, attempt to open the dialogue about mental health and addiction on a more personal level, discussing stigmas associated with substance abuse and discussing possible strategies for parents to use to have open dialogue about potential challenges their children may encounter and how to handle those situations should they arise to prevent them from making poor choices that may lead them down the path of addiction.
The Spiritual Soldiers have a coffee shop on 1015 Erie St East in addition to selling merchandise they’ve always sold as a social enterprise. The shop serves as a safe haven for those looking to get out and enjoy themselves in a clean, sober and supportive environment. It’s an opportunity to provide constant encouragement for those who need mental and/or emotional support.
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.
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.
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.
Referrals may come from parents and caregivers, schools, police, community partners, healthcare professionals, or through self-referral, depending on the service.
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.
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.