On May 12th, MP Majid Jowhari (below) was at 360Kids to make an announcement of $1million funding for 360°kids Specialized Training Employment Program (STEP), to be delivered over 3 years, for youth ages 13 to 26. Majid talked about 360Kids being a safe place for youth at risk.
STEP provides employment training and supports to youth with barriers and self-identify specifically with mental health challenges, including many young people on the autism spectrum. The program can accomodate 120 youth.
Through counselling, one-on-one job coaching and paid work placement opportunities, STEP has made a lasting impact towards sustainable employment for youth.
The CEO of 360kids is Clovis Grant (below) talked about altering the journey of youth at risk and preventing homelessness.
Employment Program Manager, Pamela Sertl, (below) spoke of how programs cultivate an empathetic and holistic approach in preparation for youth employment.
Courtney Cot, STEP Facilitator (below), spoke of meeting youth at their level of employment readiness and working alongside them in achieving goals, based on their individual needs and abilities. This includes employment certifications (Smart Serve, WHMIS, Food Handlers, First Aid/CPR) as well as budgeting, stress management, interpersonal communication, and conflict resolution.
As well as the 360 kids team providing this wrap around support, there is still a strong need to have community support.
