Youth Empowerment and Family Strengthening
Youth Empowerment and Family Strengthening Program
The Youth Empowerment and Family Strengthening (YEW/FS) program provides individualized, relationship-based support to youth and young adults who are struggling to connect with help. We support young people who may be experiencing housing instability, family conflict, school challenges, mental health concerns, substance use, social isolation, or other barriers to stability and wellbeing.
Sometimes young people and families need someone in their corner
We meet young people where they are and provide practical support, advocacy, and systems navigation. Support may include school engagement, family strengthening, accompaniment to appointments, connection to community resources, and help navigating complex systems.
We are not a counselling service. We act as trusted allies – walking alongside youth and families, reducing barriers, strengthening connections, and helping people access support on their own terms. Our role is to build relationships, provide practical support, and help bridge the gap between youth,
families, communities and formal systems.
Services are voluntary, community-based, and tailored to each young person’s unique circumstances and goals.
We are not a counselling service. We act as trusted allies – walking alongside youth and families, reducing barriers, strengthening connections, and helping people access support on their own terms. Our role is to build relationships, provide practical support, and help bridge the gap between youth, families, communities and formal systems. Services are voluntary, community-based, and tailored to each young person’s unique circumstances and goals.
Please note, while the program is open to all youth between the ages of 12 – 23, due to limited capacity and resources acceptance into the program happens on a first-come, first serve basis. In addition, please note that this is not a generalized “Big Brothers / Big Sisters” style of program; preference will be given to youth who are facing mid-to-high level barriers.
For additional resources, please view our Youth Resources Page.
Youth Matter
Meet Debbie
Debbie Richardson (she/her)
Youth Empowerment & Family Strengthening Worker
Debbie is the Youth Empowerment and Family Strengthening Worker here at Access Youth. With more than 25 years of experience supporting children, youth, and families, she believes trust and relationships are the foundation for meaningful change. Debbie is passionate about walking alongside youth and families, helping to reduce barriers, strengthen connections, and create pathways toward stability and hope. She is committed to meeting people where they are and supporting them with compassion, respect, and without judgment.