StepStones for Youth

Our principle aim at StepStones for Youth is to prevent youth who are ageing out of the child welfare system from dropping out of school, and becoming homeless and impoverished. We believe that if preventative measures are taken to support these youth then we can foster stability and independence for them that will drastically reduce their dependence on corrective social services in adulthood, and consequently disrupt the cycle of poverty. StepStones’ programs demonstrate that these outcomes are possible when youth feel connected, empowered, and supported.

StepStones’ programs are designed to encourage skill development, promote educational attainment, increase youths’ employability, and reduce the likelihood of homelessness. To achieve these outcomes we offer a range of programs including the Youth in Transition Housing Program, the Youth in Transition Education and Mentoring Program, and the Summer Camp and Leadership Program. Collectively, our programs help youth to foster their inherent strengths and build their capacity to take charge of their own lives. Using this approach we have witnessed firsthand positive changes in youths’ physical, social, and emotional development that in turn promotes their self-esteem, self-advocacy, and overall self-sufficiency.