Participating students (grades 7-11) are encouraged to overcome barriers, make the right decisions, set goals, build confidence and engage in a self -help and self-discovery process through the intervention of a CYF Program Counsellor. In 2005-2006 CYF Program Counsellors delivered the program in 21 schools in 8 Greater Toronto school boards.

9. Why Developed / Problems / Issues Targeted

 What are the main aims or objectives of the initiative? Is it designed to address any particular problems or issues? If so, please specify what these are.

The overarching goal of CYF is to reduce dropout rates among participants.

In this school year, student participants have been referred and selected to the CYF program based on these criteria:

  • students reflecting the diversity of the participating schools
  • recognized as students who can achieve academic success
  • express a desire to do well in school and develop his/her aspirations
  • in grades 7 to 11 who may have regular attendance and lateness difficulties
  • may have demonstrated poor organizational and study skills
  • have the ability to function within the context of a peer group
  • respond well to encouragement and support
  • would benefit from a positive adult role model
  • need help in accessing resources and support to achieve greater success in school
  • demonstrated need for help in developing their ability to access resources and support in building links with potential employers and the broader community.

10. Key Features / Content

  • Innovative
  • Effective
  • Promising
 Please describe the main features of the program, focusing in particular on those aspects that are particularly innovative, effective or promising.

CYF Counsellors work with a small group of atrisk students in 3 high schools. There are 8 counsellors to serve the current roster of 24 schools – group meetings with students and individual counselling are the main delivery venues.