Youth Liaison Workers Program

DDSB’s Youth Liaison Worker (YLW) role was launched as a pilot project in 2018, and with the success of the program has since grown to three positions. Youth Liaison Workers provide leadership and mentorship to select youth to help them successfully navigate the transition from elementary to secondary school. They engage with students to help them feel connected to their communities and encourage involvement as participants and volunteers by guiding the way to available Youth Hubs and opportunities based on student needs, abilities and interests.

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By spring 2023, DDSB’s Youth Liaison Workers were supporting over 70 students in 15 elementary and secondary schools across DDSB, helping to foster and build positive relationships between schools and families and facilitating connections between community groups, social service agencies, and other programs that benefit youth, schools, and families. They also initiate and support student success and engagement through involvement with BSLA (Black Student Leadership Alliance), Female Empowerment Group/Girls Club, BeMe (Black Excellence Made Evident), BPS (Black People Speak), BSA (Black Student Alliance) and The Cypher. Student feedback on the Youth Liaison Worker program in DDSB demonstrates the positive impact and ongoing success:

 

Demarco- 9th grade, Ajax High School
J’Mone has been the best role model I’ve ever had since I’ve come to Canada. He has helped me get through my academic school years throughout Grade 6 to 9. He has shown me that school can be easy and that there are other ways to deal with conflict and academic struggles.

 

Tristan-8th Grade, West Lynde Public School

Meeting Ms. Steer brightened up the school a lot. Having to connect and talk to another Black teacher makes me feel more like I fit in with the Black community of West Lynde. She needs a lot of credit for being a mother role model.