Macdonald Youth Services 2012 /2013 Annual Report Celebrating

Transcription

Macdonald Youth Services 2012 /2013 Annual Report Celebrating
Overcoming
Challenges
Celebrating
Our Successes
Macdonald
Youth Services
2012 /2013
Annual Report
Macdonald Youth Services
fosters hope and opportunities
to empower children, youth and
families throughout Manitoba
to grow and heal through
safe, caring, respectful and
collaborative relationships.
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
Contents
A youth finds
her way…
06
A staff’s journey
to youth care…
22
A family’s journey
to fostering…
34
02
Board of Directors
04
Message from the President
05
Message from our CEO
09
Agency Overview
10
Alternative Parent Home Service / APH
12
Adolescent Resources in Community
Homes Service / ARCH
WorkForce Venture / WFV
14
Kisewatisiwin Service
16
Specialized Individual Placement Service / SIP
18
Services to Older Adolescents / STOA
18 Positive Alternatives for Youth / PAY
19 Life Train Program
20
Youth Resource Centre / Shelter Program / YRC
21
Capital Campaign
24
Youth Crisis Stabilization System / YCSS
25
Coach Program
26
Aboriginal Cultural Service
28
Clinical Service
29
Human Resources
30
MYS Appreciation
31
MYS Graduates
32
MYS Inspirations
36
A Year to Remember
38
Grants & Sponsorships
39
MYS Spring Fling
40
MYS Financial Report
MYS Board of Directors
Contact
Board Executives
President:
Vice President:
Vice President:
Past President:
Treasurer:
Secretary:
Darlene Searcy
Ron Zaporzan*
Ian Gillies
Jim Venn
C. Anthony (Tony) Magian
Carla Dewar
Board Members
Dave Schellenberg
Grace Schedler
Roxanne Greene
Virginia Toni
Donna Glover
Joyce Laidler
Tom Liontas
Amanda Haney
Members
Al Burrows
Charles Polcyn
Gilbert Manitopyes
Michael Walker
Suzanne Pelletier
Committee Chairs
Executive:
Finance and Financial Audit:
Planning and Priorities:
Property:
Board Development & By-Laws:
Honourary Lifetime Member:
Phyllis Dixon
MYS Crisis Resources
Brad Wolfe
Dave McCulloch
Larry Karpiak
Norma McCormick
Darlene Searcy
Ron Zaporzan*
Carla Dewar (Co-Chair)
Donna Glover (Co-Chair)
Tom Liontas (Co-Chair)
Joyce Laidler (Co-Chair)
Dave Schellenberg
Youth Crisis Stabilization System
T: 204.949.4777
Toll free (outside Winnipeg): 1.888.383.2776
Youth Resource Centre/Shelter Program
161 Mayfair Avenue
Winnipeg, MB, R3L 0A1
T: 204.477.1804
Toll free (outside Winnipeg): 1.888.477.1804
MYS Head Office
175 Mayfair Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Canada R3L 0A1
T: 204.477.1722
F: 204.284.4431
E: info@mys.mb.ca
MYS Kisewatisiwin Office
(Northern Office)
102-83 Churchill Drive
Thompson, Manitoba
Canada R8N 0L6
T: 204.677.7870
F: 204.778.7778
E: mysnorth@mys.mb.ca
MYS Northern Alternative
Parent Home Program
Box 958
The Pas, Manitoba
Canada R9A 1K9
T: 204.627.1460
F: 204.623.5762
E: naph@mys.mb.ca
*Board Members who left during the year.
www.mys.ca
02
“Caring is an important part of the
YS Mission Statement and a key part
M
of human relationships. ‘If you don’t care about me, why should I care
about you?’ People are often puzzled
by our willingness to work with youth
who have made poor choices. Caring
does not mean accepting or condoning
bad behaviour. It does mean committing
to be there, to also see the good
behaviour and the potential, to listen
and try to understand, to respect and
value the other person, and to help
pick up the pieces and try again.
Paul Johnston, Former MYS Director of Client Services
Message from the President
Macdonald Youth Services (MYS) has seen many positive changes
over the last year. We have completed a significant amount of work in a
number of key areas, primarily our Capital Campaign which is designed
to provide funding for the construction work around the Youth Resource
Centre/Shelter Program. This facility provides overnight care and
assistance to many of the youth in our community who find themselves
alone, troubled, uncertain of where to go for immediate help or in need
of a safe bed for the night. We are also working to develop and support
Youth Care Practitioners; supporting their work and providing a safe
environment, as well as career growth and fair wages is essential to
developing a skilled and strong team.
We have worked hard with our fabulous CEO, Dr. Erma Chapman and her dedicated, inspiring staff as
we continue looking ahead to the future. We have met with Jennifer Howard, Minister of Manitoba
Family Services and Labour, Jeff Parr, Deputy Minister of Family Services and Labour, Aurel Tess,
Acting Deputy Minister of Family Services and Labour and Brian Ridd, Acting Executive Director
of the Child Protection Branch, on issues of stability and predictability in funding, better employee
wages, safer workplaces and improved communication and collaboration. We agree with the Manitoba
government that options for emergency care and temporary care are a priority for youth, and that is
what Macdonald Youth Services does best, and has done successfully for the past 80 years.
MYS has an increasing presence in the north, we welcome the Haldisse Community Services Inc.,
a home for disabled adults in The Pas. Over the last year, the Coach Program has seen an increase
in need for assistance with elementary aged students. This program also supports the transition of
those students back into regular school programming, and working with families to build bridges.
In February, Dr. Erma Chapman was awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in recognition
of her many years of quiet exceptional service, leadership and vision in our community; recognition
she truly deserves. Our Spring Fling was a lot of fun this year as always. We presented Edward Kennedy
with the Sir Hugh John Macdonald Memorial Award, a well-deserved recognition for his dedication
to young people across Manitoba. We also managed to make the social page in the Winnipeg Free Press!
Those of us on the Board of Directors have been fortunate in many ways. We give our time and
expertise as a way to provide service to others; that these young people deserve our protection and
our faith in their ability and worth as members of our society. I know the Board joins me in saying
that it is an honour to be a part of the MYS Board of Directors.
As we near the end of our five year Strategic Initiative Plan (2000-2015), it is time to begin reflecting
on our accomplishments, challenges and next steps towards the future of continuing to provide
proven, exceptional service to the youth of Manitoba. The Agency continues to face complex and
difficult situations. Working on the front lines with youth in a large and encompassing non-profit
organization demands dedication and inspiration, energy that the staff at MYS have in abundance.
We share their confidence that the future is bright and the way ahead possible.
Thank you,
Darlene Searcy,
President of the Board
04
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
Message from our CEO
Each child, youth or family member who seeks the services of Macdonald Youth
Services (MYS) has already overcome many challenges – our role is to provide
hope and opportunities for each individual to grow, heal and celebrate success.
The theme of this year’s MYS Annual Report is Overcoming Challenges,
Celebrating Our Successes. Each employee, volunteer, and foster parent is
thrilled to celebrate the successes experienced by the children, youth, and
families we serve. This year MYS celebrated a remarkable number of youth
in our group and foster care services as they experienced the success of high
school graduation – a key in future growth for each of these young people.
On February 17, 2013, Dr. Erma Chapman was awarded
the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal.
MYS was also able to continue to develop more resources. The Coach Program serving the needs of school aged children
and their families saw an expansion of services. MYS participated in a system-wide symposium to identify strategies
to prevent homelessness among youth leaving care; we expanded our services to youth leaving care throughout the
Agency, but particularly in Thompson. We were also able to provide our youth with the opportunity to participate in
cultural activities like National Aboriginal Day at The Forks that would further their understanding and knowledge
of Aboriginal cultural heritage.
Sundee Blackadder, a long-time Youth Care Practitioner, was recognized by her peers when she received the National
Child and Youth Care Award. The challenge of finding, developing and maintaining Youth Care Practitioners such as
Sundee has been a priority for MYS. We provided a two-day conference for front-line service providers to deepen their
understanding of the needs of children and youth who face complex and difficult issues. A Clinical Supervisor was
added to support the many talents of therapists – a vital tool as therapists and youth care practitioners assist youth in
overcoming challenges.
We cannot overlook the successes of connecting with community. We had a successful Spring Fling event that
honoured Edward Kennedy for his commitment to improving the lives of youth in Manitoba. Global and City
television stations provided MYS with opportunities to share and celebrate our successes on their morning shows.
Our participation in the national Raising the Roof campaign in support of services for homeless Canadians was
celebrated with Intact Insurance. Our MYS Paddles for Hope Dragon Boat team tied for first place, and was second
place in contributing donations to the Canadian Cancer Society. We also celebrated the retirement of long-time
employee Paul Johnston. Paul’s role as a mentor, leader and advocate for youth was honoured by his family and many
past and present colleagues at the Fort Garry Hotel.
None of our successes or celebrations would be possible without the incredible employees, foster parents, and volunteers
at MYS. Thank you for your hope, compassion, and belief in children and youth. Thank you to the incredibly skilled,
creative, and patient management team at MYS.
Thanks are also extended to the dedicated members of the Board of Directors for their leadership, and to Darlene Searcy,
President of the Board, for her wisdom and guidance.
Respectfully submitted,
Erma Chapman, Ph.D.
Chief Executive Officer
05
Jennette’s Story
A youth finds her way…
The challenges you have faced
and the successes you have had!
I am a 21 year old Aboriginal woman who was
born in Winnipeg and I am from the Hollow
Water Reserve. I have been in foster care since
I was a baby and I was a permanent ward of
Southeast Child and Family Services. I came
into care because my biological family was
having difficulties taking care of me. My parents
experienced poverty and had issues with abuse,
drugs and alcohol.
During my time in care, I had been placed in two
different foster homes. My first foster home was
where I met my two foster sisters and I was placed
in that home from birth until I was five years old.
We were apprehended from that foster home but
I am not sure why. My foster sisters and I moved
to a hotel for a couple days until they could find
us another foster home. This is when I met my
foster parents who eventually became foster
parents in the Alternative Parent Home (APH)
Program at MYS. I lived with them for 13 years
until I transitioned out of care and into the MYS
Independent Living with Supports (ILS) Program.
I have had many challenges throughout my life.
I have struggled with trying to figure out how I fit
with my biological family and my foster family,
separating the positive supports from the negative
supports and staying focused on the positives;
facing peer pressure with drugs and alcohol and
trying to make sure that I do not get caught in
that lifestyle; the passing of my biological family
members; and the need to learn life skills as I
transition out of care. All those past experiences
have taught me that I am a strong person and that
I want better for myself which means I need to
break my family cycle.
06
I have also had a lot of successes in my life;
my foster parents have become my family, I
have a good relationship with my partner, I am
currently renting a house in the country and
in 2009, I graduated from high school. After
graduating, I decided I wanted to pursue a career
as a Child and Youth Care Worker because I
enjoy working with youth that are struggling
and when I was young I would advocate for my
friends. I want to help youth realize that the
willingness to change is within them and that
they have choices. I am proud to say that this past
year I graduated from Red River College with
my diploma in Child and Youth Care. As well, I
received the Susan McDonald Bursary Award that
honours achievements of a graduating student
who recognizes the importance of family and
community and demonstrated strong advocacy
skills in child and youth care.
I have had the opportunity to work with at risk
youth at MYS, Marymound, and in school settings.
I am looking forward to my career in child and
youth care and I am confident that I have the skills
and knowledge to be successful. I understand
that my story is different from other youth in care
and that I can’t compare their experiences with
mine. But one thing I have learned is that you can
choose your own path! With help and supports
and a willingness to change - You can do anything.
I am a prime example of this.
— Jennette, Former Youth of MYS
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
“overcome many obstacles. Her greatest strength is her perseverance and positive outlook on life. We are so proud of her!
”
Jennette is an amazing young woman who has
— Darlene Papaioannou, ILS Program Manager
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
Agency Overview
Macdonald Youth Services is structured into
six service areas that provide both placement
programming and community support services.
Placement Services:
Agency Overview
2012/13
Adolescent Resources in Community
Homes Service / ARCH
Alternative Parent Home Service / APH
Kisewatisiwin Service
Specialized Individual Placement Service / SIP
Total number of clients served
Casual staff
411
Community Services:
Permanent staff
330
Total number of staff
741
Services to Older Adolescents / STOA
Youth Resource Centre – Shelter Program / YRC
Positive Alternatives for Youth / PAY
Life Train Program
Youth Crisis Stabilization System / YCSS
Coach Program
(Placement and Support Services)
Total Number of Staff
Placement Services Totals
Total number of clients served
*3,407
Excluding YCSS
2012/13
2012/13
417
Total number of days of care
86,773
Total number of foster homes
77
Support Services Totals
Total number of clients served, Services
to Older Adolescents
2012/13
2,990
*Due to technological issues, MYS is unable to provide statistical
information for the Youth Crisis Stabilization System.
09
Alternative Parent
Home Service / APH
The Alternative Parent Home (APH) Service
continues to provide two distinct foster care
programs for children and youth, both within the
city of Winnipeg and in rural placements outside
of the city. APH currently provides specialized
foster care to children and youth between 0 – 21
years of age who have experienced behavioural
difficulties and require additional supports to meet
their individual needs.
Alternative Parent Home Service
Total number of clients served
Total number of service days
Aboriginal clients
2012/13
Total number of clients served
“
Alternative Parent Home Service
(Winnipeg)
Total number of clients served
2012/13
89
148
Total number of service days
26,289
37,693
Total number of foster homes
31
47%
Within the APH Service is the Purple Martin
Program, a partnership with Winnipeg Child and
Family Services. The program focuses on recruiting
new foster parents willing to foster youth who
would otherwise remain in an emergency shelter.
Purple Martin Program
An encouraging trend that the service area has noted
over the last year is the high number of sibling groups
who are being placed in both programs. The APH
Service strongly supports this as it allows siblings
to grow together in a family environment, creates
positive ties in the community and allows them to
remain connected with their biological family.
2012/13
59
Total number of service days
11,404
Total number of foster homes
17
Providing quality care and service in times of
financial restraint creates challenges that are far
reaching. Our success comes from the dedicated
foster parents and the team of respite support
workers who continue to give of themselves for
the sake of the children and youth. We need to
continually find ways to recognize and praise
their commitment and dedication to enhancing
the lives of children and youth.
The APH Service is celebrating the success of
four high school graduates this year. For the
past five years, APH has had between three
to six youth graduate from high school each
year. It is recognized that this trend comes
from having a stable place to live with support
systems that include the foster parents, respite
workers, community resources, and dedicated high
school teams who all assist youth to achieve this
significant goal.
The
philosophy that it takes a village to raise a child
is alive and well at APH and is demonstrated by staff,
foster parents, respite workers, and collaterals. ”
— Jacqueline Wall, Director of Client Services
10
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
Adolescent Resources
in Community Homes Service / ARCH
The Adolescent Resources in Community Homes
(ARCH) Service is comprised of a work training
program, an education program, and six community
based homes. This includes a planning and
assessment home and a program specifically
designed to work with youth who have displayed
sexually aggressive behaviour. ARCH works with
youth between the ages of 12-17 who are aggressive,
have emotional and behavioural needs, and are
dealing with multiple treatment issues that have
precluded them from being successful in their
home communities or other treatment settings.
ARCH strongly believes in the importance of
educational stability and advocates for youth to
have the opportunity to participate in appropriate
educational programming. Our greatest success
this past year has been the accomplishments of
our youth. After hard work and determination, six
youth from the ARCH program graduated from
high school. This is a significant achievement and
a testament to the resiliency of our youth!
Throughout the last year, ARCH has been faced
with young people who experienced high levels
of distress and required additional support and
resources. ARCH’s greatest strength is in the
resiliency of the youth and the treatment teams’
ability to help youth overcome seemingly
insurmountable obstacles and challenges to reach
their full potential. Many of the youth come to the
home not having hope for their future. To help
youth overcome this obstacle, the program offers
a caring and nurturing environment that focuses
on the strengths of the youth, works towards
Adolescent Resource
in Community Homes
Total number of clients served
Total number of service days
Aboriginal clients
12
2012/13
56
10,953
50%
improved relationships with their family and the
community, provides individual therapy, offers
culturally driven programming, education and
employment training and provides youth with
recreational opportunities.
The Chancellor home would like to express their
gratitude for the generous grant provided by
The Winnipeg Foundation that allowed them to
purchase a high efficiency furnace. As a result of
this grant, more funding was able to be spent on
client programming and capital funds were able
to be utilized for other necessary projects.
WorkForceVenture / WFV
WFV complements ARCH’s community based
education program by offering a community
integration and work training program for youth
that are struggling with maintaining a full academic
workload. In partnerships with the public school
system, WFV provides academic and practical
supports that encourage youth to stay in school,
and reach their full educational potential.
Youth are offered a paid supervised work experience
in a supportive environment. This is designed
to provide structure, develop their sense of
community, meet their individual needs, and
provide an opportunity to develop employment
and life skills. On a fee for service basis, youth
perform yard maintenance, snow clearing and
garbage removal for homeowners, many of whom
are retired, elderly, and are only able to remain in
their homes with this assistance.
WorkForce Venture
2012/13
Total number of participants
36
Total number of customers served
110
Total number of hours worked
3,305
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
“
During
my time here, I have learned how to control my
aggressive behaviour, how to be accountable, assertive,
responsible and respectful. ”
— Youth from ARCH Service
“
You
can’t rush your development in learning
to love yourself. The most valuable things that
are to be received in life are the ones we wait for.
Just like getting to know who you are and who
you have yet to become. ”
— Toni, Youth from ARCH Service
13
Kisewatisiwin Service
The Kisewatisiwin programs provide individualized
therapeutic services to children and youth between
the ages of 0–21 who are wards of a child welfare
agency. Kisewatisiwin offers services to the three
northern communities of Thompson, The Pas and
Opaskwayak Cree Nation (OCN), Manitoba. These
services include Community Based Healing Homes
(Thompson), Alternative Parent Homes (Thompson,
The Pas and OCN), Learning Independence
Fosters Empowerment (LIFE) Program – Supported
Independent Living (Thompson) and the Wilderness
Program (Thompson).
Kisewatisiwin Service
Total number of clients served
Total number of service days
Aboriginal clients
2012/13
133
28,966
78%
The Kisewatisiwin Service has had a year full of
new and exciting initiatives that has involved
program enhancement and program development
priorities with a focus on enhancing our
community services for the children, youth and
families. In 2012-2013, Kisewatisiwin added two
brand new programs:
Manitoba Youth Transitional Employment
Assistance & Mentorship (MYTEAM) Program:
The MYTEAM Program is designed to support
youth who are leaving, or have recently left the
care of a Manitoba Child and Family Services
agency. The program focuses on identifying the
strengths of the youth and addressing the needs
for support and skill development in the areas of
housing, child care, finance, and life skills so that a
youths’ primary educational and training goals
may be achieved.
Outreach Program: The focus is on developing
and enhancing early intervention treatment
services to meet the needs of youth that are at
high risk of abusing substances. This program was
a pilot project through the Drug Treatment
Funding Program and sponsored by Manitoba
Healthy Living, Youth and Consumer Affairs,
Addictions Policy and Support Branch.
14
Recruitment and retention of caring and skilled
staff are amongst the biggest challenges in the
child and youth care field—this is especially true
in northern Manitoba. The work can be highly
enjoyable and rewarding, but not everyone can
weather the storms of working with vulnerable
children and youth in a child welfare system that
is incredibly large and very complex. Kisewatisiwin has been very fortunate in retaining
a dedicated core group of people (staff and foster
parents) that work tirelessly at meeting the MYS
mission on a daily basis.
Independent Treatment Services
Total number of clients served
Total number of service days
Community-Based Healing Homes
Total number of clients served
Total number of service days
2012/13
10
1,669
2012/13
26
2,616
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
“families we have met along
The children, youth, and
Northern Alternative Parent Home
(The Pas and Thompson)
Total number of clients served
the way demonstrate
incredible strength and
resilience – we truly walk
amongst heroes.
2012/13
97
Total number of service days
24,681
Total number of foster homes
29
”
— Dave Kuhl, Coordinator Kisewatisiwin Service
MYS provides opportunities
for Nolan and Bobby
Nolan is a 3 year old boy who was non-verbal and
would only communicate with his foster parent
by using his own made up language. There were
no obvious medical reasons to explain why he
wasn’t speaking. After many sessions with speech
therapy, the foster parent was encouraged to
make him talk when he was requesting or wanting
various things. The foster parent struggled with
accommodating this as it was causing significant
daily frustration for Nolan. An opportunity to learn
sign language came to the community and after
some debate it was decided that it was important
to provide this foster parent and Nolan with
additional tools for communicating. The foster
parent actively participated in sign language
classes. After a few weeks, Nolan was picking
up on the signs and his frustration level when
communicating was quickly decreasing. Nolan is
now only using sign language to fill in the gaps
and those gaps are becoming less and less. This
little boy and his very dedicated foster parent have
overcome a significant obstacle. The sound of his
voice up and down the Kisewatisiwin office halls
are the evidence of a much happier little boy.
Kathy is a single foster parent. She is fostering
Bobby, a 7 year old boy who recently has been
diagnosed with multiple conditions. Kathy was
very committed and determined to help him
overcome his challenges. She tried to gain new
understanding by researching new approaches;
attended training and she made connections with
therapists, occupational therapists, and doctors.
Through these resources she gained knowledge
and was empowered to help Bobby. The first thing
she did was make a lycra swing for him. This swing
is a sensory tool and is used to help calm him down.
It represents the womb; the closeness and tightness
of the swing is designed to help replace the lack of
swaddling and attachment he had missed during
the most critical time of his young life. This has
been life changing for both of them! Bobby goes in
his swing on his own before and after school and it
has now become part of the bedtime routine. Bobby
also recognizes when he is getting worked up and
he will ask to use his swing. There has been a huge
improvement in his behaviour and many would
describe him as a happier boy now. Kathy has had
to overcome many obstacles to help clear the way
so Bobby could have the support he needed to
overcome his own challenges.
*Youth names changed to protect privacy
15
Specialized Individual
Placement Service / SIP
The Specialized Individual Placement (SIP) Service
operates six community based homes, offers
one-to-one educational support, a structured
community integration/work experience program,
and a supportive independent living program.
The youth referred are 12-17 years of age with
high behavioural and/or emotional needs.
Often, the youth have experienced a great deal
of trauma and are the highest risk youth in the
Province. These young people require one-to-one
supervision and a placement with a low number
of residents. The primary goal of the program
is stabilization, focusing on the strengths of the
youth, developing life skills, and providing a safe
environment for the youth to heal.
Over the last year, a challenge that SIP has
experienced is staffing. These vacancies have
been due to resignations, leaves of absence, and
agency growth which has led to the movement
of skilled individuals to other areas within MYS.
Many of the vacancies have been at the front
line and it has been difficult recruiting skilled
Youth Care Practitioners (YCPs). SIP and Human
Resources partnered in a pilot training project to
assist in resolving staffing issues and to improve
the overall effectiveness of service delivery. The
pilot project was a success with 15 participants
graduating from the training program and being
offered full time employment. The goal is to
continue to deliver and adapt this training so
that SIP middle managers can train YCPs in their
respective programs. This will help resolve the
front line staffing concerns and will ensure that
we have skilled YCPs.
This past year SIP started the process of renaming
their community homes. With staff input, SIP
named each community home after specific
trees that are native to Manitoba and symbolic of
qualities that MYS strives to foster in the youth,
families, and communities it serves. The new
names for the community homes are:
SIP Tamarack:
Protection and it is said to ward off evil spirits
SIP Willow:
Healing, inner vision, and dreams
SIP Aspen:
Determination, overcoming fears, and doubts
SIP Birch:
New beginnings and cleansing of the past
SIP Poplar:
Victory, transformation, and vision
SIP Maple:
Balance, promise, and practicality
Supported Individual
Placement Service
Total number of clients served
Total number of service days
Aboriginal clients
Special Placements
Total number of clients served
Independent Living with Supports
Total number of clients served
16
2012/13
44
9,161
78%
2012/13
31
2012/13
13
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
17
Services to Older Adolescents / STOA
Positive Alternatives for Youth / PAY
Positive Alternatives for Youth (PAY) is committed
to supporting youth at risk who are in need of a
supportive environment that allows them to be
positively involved in the community. Working
as part of a community service team, youth, staff,
and volunteer mentors will complete community
service and volunteer projects that positively
impacts the community. PAY creates opportunities
for youth to overcome barriers, assess and develop
their life skills, sharpen their education and
employment skills, and build their self-confidence.
The PAY Program was fortunate to receive over
$5000 in grants. Program staff graciously thank
the Province of Manitoba, the TD Bank, and The
Winnipeg Foundation. Their contributions allowed
PAY to: provide honourariums to community
individuals that provided cultural teachings
and guidance which improved the cultural
programming of the drop-in program; provide
learning opportunities to youth that exposed them
to activities that they may not have otherwise
had the opportunity to experience; purchase a
variety of craft supplies that were used in the
drop-in program; and provide transportation that
allowed youth, staff and volunteer mentors to be
transported to programming within the community.
Positive Alternatives for Youth
Total number of participants
Community Service Support Program
Total number of participants served
Fine Option/Community
Service Orders
Total number of participants served
2012/13
497
2012/13
76
2012/13
386
Youth
108
Adult
278
Mentor Training and Support Project
Volunteer mentor/student hours
Number of mentors/students
Youth Positively Involved
in the Community
2012/13
1,119
28
2012/13
Total number of participants served
35
Number of youth drop-in visits
306
“volunteering inspire me and give
The youth I encounter while
me reasons to believe that with
a little effort and encouragement
nothing can break the will or
crush the spirit of a determined
young person
”
— Emi, Volunteer Mentor with PAY
18
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
Services to Older Adolescents / STOA
Life Train
The Life Train Program provides an individualized
approach that supports adult participants 18–29
years of age to develop their skills for life, preemployment, job searching, career planning,
and self-advocacy. Life Train provides on the job
support and connects participants with resources
in the community.
Life Train partners with SEED Winnipeg Inc. to offer
the Asset Building Program, a money management
program that encourages participants to save money
by matching three dollars for every dollar saved up
to a specified amount. This was a huge success. As
a result of this program, a single mom was able
to purchase items for her child and a young couple
were able to buy a couch for their living room.
“the right time can go a
long way for many of our
participants
”
A little financial help at
— Lynn Purvis, Life Train, Program Manager
Over the last year, Life Train has experienced
challenges with meeting the participants’ needs in
relation to income assistance, housing, and mental
health services. Life Train worked collaboratively
with advocates and was successfully able to build
partnerships with the various systems to address
the individual needs of the participants.
A special thank you to Assiniboine Credit Union
and The Winnipeg Foundation - Youth in
Philanthropy for providing funding that helped
our participants gain meaningful employment by
helping to eliminate the financial barriers when
finding employment.
As you walk in the door at Life Train, Ricki will greet you with a warm,
friendly welcome.
Life Train
2012/13
Total number of participants served
119
Total follow-up contacts
644
Asset Building Program
2012/13
Total number of participants
15
19
Services to Older Adolescents / STOA
Youth Resource Centre / YRC
Shelter Progam
The Youth Resource Centre (YRC) offers a 24-hr
short-term emergency shelter and basic needs
walk-in resource service to youth who are between
12–17 years of age. Beds in the shelter are assigned
on a first come first serve basis every night. Crisis
intervention, counselling, food, hygiene needs,
shower, clothes, and case management are all
services offered to youth accessing the emergency
shelter. On a walk-in basis, the YRC also offers
referral, advocacy, resources, information, and short
term basic needs services to youth between 12–21
years of age.
The YRC has seen a significant increase in the
number of youth needing service over the past year.
The staff team has worked hard to accommodate
the increased number of youth coming into the
shelter and to ensure that all youth have their needs
met, receive support, advocacy, and a safe place
to stay. Staff have adapted well to the changing
demands and workload, never wavering in their
support of the youth with whom they work.
20
Youth Resource Centre
2012/13
Total number of walk-in contacts
3,622
Total number of client calls
2,311
Total number of youth contacts
7,927
Parent contacts
968
Professional contacts
6,327
Total number of youth served
1,645
Shelter Program
Total number of overnights
Number of youth using shelter beds
2012/13
1,994
714
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
Capital
Campaign
A New Home for Homeless Youth
159 Mayfair Avenue
Renovation and Renewal Project
A long-time dream for Macdonald Youth Services
began its path to reality this past year. For over a
decade, MYS has provided food, clothing, shelter,
and counselling to youth who did not have a
safe place to stay. The priority was always to find
sustainable operating funds to ensure that the
service would remain available, and for many
years those dollars were elusive. Now, with more
predictable and sustainable funding to cover the
costs of operation, MYS was able to turn its energy
towards a more suitable facility in which to deliver
the services to youth experiencing homelessness.
MYS owns the house and property at 159 Mayfair
Avenue, next door to the current home of the Youth
Resource Centre/Shelter Program. It is a heritage
home built in 1903 by John Duncan McArthur. The
house is large enough to separate youth who need
shelter from those whom need resources; as well, it
is able to accommodate individual bedrooms for up
to eight youth at a time. Barrier-free access was also
important and the existence of an elevator shaft
attached to the house would facilitate plans for
youth and family members with mobility challenges.
Construction plans were developed and funds
solicited from the federal Homelessness Partnering
Strategy in 2012; a Capital Campaign to fund our
dream was initiated in February 2013. With funds
raised through MYS events, government grants
and the private sector, the $2.2 million renovation
project should be completed without the need for a
mortgage – allowing MYS to provide more supports
to youth who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
With Edward Kennedy, President and Chief
Executive Officer of The North West Company
as Honourary Chair of the Capital Campaign
Committee, the Committee is comprised
of the following dedicated volunteers: Brad
The future home of the Youth Resource Centre / Shelter Program
Wolfe (Chair), Lynn Bishop, Ian Gillies, Tony
Magian, George Sigurdson, and Keith Sinclair.
Capital Campaign Executive Consultant, Susan
Thompson inspired the committee by providing
her leadership, guidance, and expertise. As
Susan moves on, Dale Oughton, Manager of
Development, will continue to help make our
dream come true.
The Campaign to raise $1 million from the corporate
community has progressed at warp-speed since
Susan’s arrival on February 5th, 2013. The case for
support was confirmed, packages produced and
solicitations began in earnest for lead and advance
gifts. As of March 31st, 2013, $368,985 in cash and
pledges had been received, including lead gifts from
Edward Kennedy and The North West Company.
Several legacies have already been realized
through the Capital Campaign. MYS now has built
relationships with the private sector to be fostered
into long-term partnerships. People throughout
our community are now more aware of the range
of services MYS provides to Manitobans from
many walks of life. We are also more prepared
to undertake fund raising activities to support
services to children, youth, and families.
For progress updates on construction or to view
the video describing our project, please visit our
website at www.mys.ca.
21
Brenda’s Story
A staff’s journey to youth care…
Why We Do What We Do;
Planting Seeds
I didn’t choose child and youth care as a career so
much as it chose me. A good friend of mine was
working for MYS and told me they were hiring
casual staff; “I think you’d be good at it”, he said.
I had no education aside from my time in the
school of hard knocks but I had compassion and a
big heart. I was apprehensive but decided to give
it a try. That seems like a long time ago, but I can
remember my first shift in the group home as if it
were yesterday. It was a nightmare!
I arrived at the home and a staff quickly introduced
me to the boys, handed me the keys to an enormous
cargo van and told me to take the boys shopping
for clothes. I arrived at Polo Park shopping centre
with seven boys and three hours later returned
to the group home with two boys. I thought I’d
be fired on the spot, but wasn’t. I had a silent cry
in the staff bathroom and finished out my shift.
As I was leaving to go home, one of the missingin-action shoppers returned to the home. He
shrugged and grinned at me mischievously and
asked if I was working the next day. “Yup,” I said.
“See ya then,” he said.
I could flippantly say that the rest is history
and it is, but it is a rich and rewarding history
with moments of great joy, sadness, frustration,
accomplishment, mistakes and learning. Working
in this field has made me a better person. I have
found that along the way either accidently or on
purpose, I know that I have done some good.
We all come to work with youth and families
because we want to make a difference. We want to
help people make positive changes in their lives.
Unfortunately, change takes time and it doesn’t
happen according to our expectations or agenda.
The reward for our work is seeing change, but we
don’t always get to see it during our time with the
youth. Sometimes, the best we can do is give kids
the tools and information they can draw on at some
point in the future. We hope that one day we can
be the voice in their head that says “Aha!” The
work we do is an exercise in faith because the kids
that come back and thank us for what we did or
said are few and far between. Like a gardener, we
plant the seeds and have faith that one day they
will grow and flower. The only thing we have
control over is the youth experiencing us as
genuine, compassionate, caring, human beings.
— Brenda Neiles
Brenda Neiles has worked for Macdonald Youth Services for over 18 years. She currently works as
the In-home Facilitator in the Alternative Parent Home (APH) Service.
22
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
“on purpose, I know that I have done some good.”
I have found that along the way either accidently or
Youth Crisis Stabilization System / YCSS
The Youth Crisis Stabilization System (YCSS)
is a partnership service between MYS and
collaborative agencies. MYS provides intake,
mobile crisis services, clinical follow-up and brief
therapy. The partnering agencies provide the
Crisis Stabilization Units, Home-based Crisis
Intervention Services, and Youth Educational
Services. YCSS ensures that crisis services are
available to children and their families and provides
leadership in the development of a communitybased system of mental health services.
Within the YCSS system, the Brief Therapy
Team offers short-term therapy to individuals and
families that are in crisis. One day a week, YCSS
has a psychiatrist who is available for consultation
and assessment with brief therapy therapists and
their clients. This resource allows YCSS to provide
a comprehensive mental health consultation to
youth in a timely manner. Some of the youth who
utilize YCSS have barriers that prevent them from
leaving home and attending an appointment.
On these rare occasions, the psychiatrist and
therapist are able to see the youth in their home
with their caregivers.
MYS makes a difference…
During this past year, an Intake Clinician received a call from
a parent who was concerned about her child’s well-being. The
parent requested that the clinician call the youth at home to
ensure that the youth was safe.
The clinician did call the home and spoke with the youth.
The youth was initially defensive and was not interested in
speaking with her. After convincing the youth to stay on the
phone, the clinician discovered that the parent’s instincts had
been correct – the youth had taken a number of prescription
pills and was presently standing on a chair with a rope around
their neck.
24
The clinician continued to speak with the youth while she was
also able to get the attention of other staff in the office to call
911 and send police to the home. She stayed on the phone with
the youth until police were in the room. The clinician was
able to speak to the police to confirm they would be taking the
youth to the hospital.
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
Coach Program
The Coach Program, in partnership with Winnipeg
School Division, is designed primarily to address
the needs of children between 6–11 years of age
who are not able to be successful in the existing
educational system. The Coach Program provides
a comprehensive school program that includes
after school/evening and summer components.
The Coaches, as MYS employees, support the
students at the off-campus classroom and provide
the after school/evening and summer supports
to the youth and families.
In the past two years, Coach has had some
significant challenges that led to tremendous
successes. An increase in funding has resulted
in the increase of the number of students who can
be accommodated in the classroom and Coach is
able to support more youth and families after they
leave the school program. In the last year and
a half, the Coach team has more than doubled.
While there have been some growing pains, there
is also an increased sense of team and pride in the
work being done and a confidence that we have
the resources to support youth and families.
Coach Program
2012/13
Total number of clients served
20
Jason entered the Coach Program at the age of 9.
He was a fun loving, energetic kid and was eager to learn. He had faced many
challenges in his life and just needed a little extra support. Jason formed
a real connection with staff after he realized that the Coach Program was
a safe place and that staff would not give up on him when he pushed them
away. After 3 years in the program, Jason left the Coach Program to return to
regular programming within the public school system. Once in a while staff
would hear from Jason when he would stop by to tell the staff how he was
doing. Jason stopped by this last year as he wanted to take staff out to dinner
to say thank you for all they had done for him. Jason is now 21 years old,
is working, and the staff at Coach are helping him apply for college. The
staff are so proud of Jason for his strength, determination and perseverance.
*Youth name changed to protect privacy
25
Aboriginal Cultural
Service / ACS
MYS Serving Aboriginal
People Statement
MYS serves many youth of Aboriginal
(First Nations, Métis, and Inuit) heritage,
who are of diverse cultural backgrounds.
Families of these youth have experienced
the indignities of colonization and racial
discrimination for several generations.
MYS acknowledges that the systems in
which we currently work are seen by
many of these youth and families as yet
another form of colonization.
MYS provides services in a respectful
manner. Employees, foster families, and
volunteers strive to serve Aboriginal
youth and families in a culturally
proficient way. Training, discussion,
experience and supervision foster
awareness and knowledge of Aboriginal
cultures, colonization and discrimination.
Aboriginal Cultural Service (ACS) understands
and recognizes the importance of community
and working together to help youth heal. ACS has
developed many relationships with Aboriginal
Elders, resource people, communities, and
organizations to offer youth the best inclusive
cultural care possible. Cultural knowledge is
shared through traditional teachings, holistic
healing workshops, and cultural skill builders:
like medicine picking, Powwows, Pipe ceremonies,
sharing circles, sweat-lodge ceremonies, and
traditional feasts. Annually, ACS hosts two large
community gatherings; the Annual Winter
Gathering and the Aboriginal Day Powwow at
The Forks.
ACS offers in-house Aboriginal Awareness Training
to the MYS community. Offered in four modules it
provides the opportunity to explore all the teachings
within the Medicine Wheel. The training offers
the opportunity to learn about the history of
the Aboriginal people, through exploration of
the nation, community, family, and self, shared
from an Indigenous perspective.
ACS builds community and this is our greatest
success. Whether it is individuals from different
walks of life coming together to celebrate Aboriginal
Day; youth having the opportunity to connect with
their aboriginal roots; the power of the Elders
sharing the cultural teachings to help youth heal;
or the more than two hundred individuals who
have gathered at training to understand the impact
of colonization and explore ways to grow as a
community. It is through these experiences that
relationships are formed, communities are built,
and healing takes place.
26
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
27
Clinical Service
Macdonald Youth Service (MYS) has made
significant strides with the integration of its
clinical services over the past year. The Agency
has added a Coordinator of Clinical Service and
more recently a Clinical Supervisor to support the
programs and provide direct supervision to the
therapists in placement programs.
This past year, MYS’ Clinical Service has
developed a supervision model that is efficient
and sets the standard for clinical supervision
at MYS. The introduction of a Clinical Supervisor
enhances the support to programs through
the direction and oversight of the therapists’
function, mitigation of risks to client care and
service delivery, and enhancing the overall
clinical integrity of the services being provided.
As well, a clinical advisory group has been created
to set the clinical vision and direction for MYS.
This working group of clinical representatives
from all service areas has been influential in the
development of a new comprehensive care plan
document that will guide teams in the creation
of clinically and culturally sound plans for a
child or youth’s individual care. In the coming
year, the clinical team will work closely with the
Coordinator of Aboriginal Cultural Services
to ensure that Aboriginal methods of healing
continue to be explored and fully integrated into
the care we provide. Increased access to landbased healing opportunities is just one example
28
of the many that will be drawn upon to help youth
discover skills, reclaim their identity, connect with
community and heal.
This year, MYS undertook a client services
quality assurance review as a demonstration of its
commitment to delivering quality services. The
final report corroborates the Agency’s current
reality, while highlighting strengths and targeting
meaningful opportunities for improvement.
The momentum from this initiative is expected
to be sustained as the MYS community has
continuously demonstrated its readiness to adapt
and change in order to provide the best care
possible to the children and youth it serves.
In January 2013, all children and youth in
placement programs as well as youth served by
the Youth Resource Centre/Shelter Program
were given the opportunity to provide feedback
regarding several aspects of their care through
the use of questionnaires. The survey results
suggested a high level of satisfaction with
most MYS youth reporting that they felt safe,
comfortable, and cared for in their current
placements. Moving forward, the survey will
be repeated on a semi-annual basis. Additional
feedback mechanisms will be explored to ensure
that the voices of the children and youth in our
care continue to be heard.
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
Human Resources
How MYS is Overcoming
Human Resource Challenges!
Human Resource (HR) Management initiatives
at MYS concentrate on recruiting and training
employees, particularly Youth Care Practitioners
(YCPs) who provide direct care to our youth.
Recruiting YCPs is a challenge. YCPs face daily
work that can be daunting, given the difficult
circumstances of the youth. At the same time, the
work can be very rewarding. For many employees
at MYS, working with youth and families is their
calling and they are passionate about the work
that the Agency does. Unfortunately, limited
funding impacts YCP salaries, therefore it is
difficult for MYS to attract and retain the special
people who make great YCPs. In 2012-2013, MYS
undertook a special effort to invest in an intensive
“boot camp” approach to recruit and orient new
YCPs into the Specialized Individual Placement
service area. The program’s success will be
measured by the retention rate of its graduates.
Early results are promising.
MYS employees are professionals, therefore
lifelong learning and keeping on top of the state
of clinical practice is a given. MYS sponsored
an internal conference for representatives from
all employee groups across the Agency. Among
other sessions, it featured training on Child and
Adolescent Development and Trauma Informed
Therapy.
Training and development is a focus for MYS
supervisors and managers. This past year, HR
ensured all managers and supervisors attended
workshops in governance, financial management,
budget management, and employee performance
management.
For many employees at MYS,
working with youth and
families is their calling and
they are passionate about the
work the Agency does.
With over 700 employees and constant turnover,
HR management at MYS will continue to be a
challenge. In 2012-2013, HR met the challenge
and made some significant improvements in
their practice. Looking ahead, HR is committed to
implementing HR best practices, looking for ways
to build capacity and work in partnership with
programs to overcome challenges.
29
MYS Appreciation 2012
Years of service award recipients:
Volunteers
5 Years
Enemi Chukwu
Takesha Henry
Samantha Hudson
Fahmo Isse
Shelly Kehler
Carl Konarski
Maureen Johnson
Scott MacDonald
Brian Stewart
Jennifer Swan
“staff, volunteers
Thank you to the
and foster
parents for your
dedication and
service to the
children, youth
and families
we serve. MYS
appreciates your
contributions and
commitment!
”
— Dr. Erma Chapman , CEO
30
Francis Amara
Brent Bell
Kempton Bellamy
Cindy Billiaert
Dale Boulanger
Linda Constant
Mickey Dandonneau
Crystal Tina Disbrowe
Mandy Drachenberg
Melinda & Jack Ducharme
Sandra Dumas
Darrel Fedoruk
Russell James Franks
Elaine Garrett
Lisa Glendinning
Julie Nicole Glawson
John Koop Harder
Carrie Hatland
Susan Hickey
Della & Norm Johnson
Diane Lavallee
Michelle Leost
Shiloh Lupichuk
Michelle McCormick
Dominic McLeod
Carlee & Tony Monias
Dan Richards & Judy Morach
Vincent Mose
Angela Patchett
Mark Cameron Penner
Daravane Phrakonekham
David Opaleke
Allan Sigurdson
Rui Silva
Lucien St. Hilarie
Kelsey VanOsch
Jim Venn
Diane Ward
Ron Zaporzan
10 Years
Kimberley Bee
Bonnie Bell
Don Bell
Melissa Dvorak
Lane Hatland
Patti Kowal
Jennifer Scott
Sandra Urciuoli-Rioux
James Zulyniak
Maureen Thomas
15 Years
Mona Champagne
Tim Jessie
Darlene Papaioannou
Corinne Peloquin
Ray Sie
20 Years
Debbie Jones
Ron Kane
Katherine Richard
Rick Richard
25 Years
Al Hammond
Jeff Richard
30 Years
Brian Morrison
40 Years
Janet Ingersoll
Thank You!
MYS Graduates
MYS youth that
graduated from
high school
Alternative Parent
Home Service
Tammy
Brandy
Adolescent Resources
in Community Homes
Brett
Randy
Cody
Clayton
Jacob
Tylo
Northern Alternative
Parent Home Service
Jessica
Specialized Individual
Placement Service
Evan
MYS youth that
graduated from
post-secondary
education
“
Specialized Individual
Placement Service
Whitney
Kelly
MYS staff/students
who graduated
with their Masters in
Marriage and Family
Therapy
Deb Bomek:
Therapist in the Alternative
Parent Home and Purple
Martin Program
Carmel Watson:
Therapist with the
Brief Therapy Team
in the Youth Crisis
Stabilization System
Audrey Wiebe:
Student from the Aurora Family
Therapy Centre who completed
her practicum placement
with Kisewatisiwin Service.
Proud would be the
word to describe the
feeling the staff have
toward our six boys who
had graduated from
high school. The boys
have overcome many
challenges through their
time with us to achieve
this goal. As they were
handed their diplomas
there were smiles on
everyone’s faces and
tears in the eyes of those
of us who had watched
them grow. This moment
is a testament to the
resilience of our youth
and that when given
opportunities dreams
hold no bounds!
”
—Tricia Caruk,
Senior Youth Care Practitioner,
ARCH Service
Congratulations
31
MYS Inspirations
Paul Johnston
Sundee Blackadder
In March 2013, after more than 32 years with MYS,
Paul Johnston retired from his position of Director
of Client Services. Paul was the epitome of the
MYS Mission Statement. Paul put his values into
action every day. He had a generous approach
and often extended himself to help those around
him. He taught us more about how to lead, how to
demonstrate respect in the most disrespectful of
circumstances, and how to advocate for the rights
and basic needs of others.
In 2012, Sundee Blackadder, a Senior Youth Care
Practitioner with the ARCH Program (Chancellor
Home), received the National Child and Youth
Care Award from the Council of Canadian
Child and Youth Care Associations. This award
was presented to Sundee in recognition of her
outstanding skills and knowledge, her ability to
inspire others, her dedication to the profession,
and her ability to advocate on behalf of clients.
In all of his advocacy and passion for justice, Paul
was patient and calm; he was an individual that
would always find the time to listen, no matter
how small the issue. He had years of wisdom and
was a compassionate leader who was committed
to providing hope and opportunities to those we
served. Paul was an invaluable part of the MYS
family and will be greatly missed.
32
Sundee is someone who leads by example and she
is a great role model for those around her. She is
compassionate, caring, and respectful to the youth
with whom she works with, yet she holds them
accountable to a higher standard. Sundee helps
them to see that they are worthy and that they can
reach their full potential. It is her approach, her
strong work ethic, and her commitment to youth
and the profession of youth care practice that that
has earned her the respect and trust of the youth,
her co-workers, and other professionals.
Janet Ingersoll
In Memory of Jason Krestanowich
This past year, Janet Ingersoll reached a milestone
of 40 years of dedicated service to children, youth,
and families at MYS. Janet is energized by the new
challenges and ideas she encounters each day as
Director of Agency Development. Janet is known
for her tenacity and perseverance; she goes above
and beyond to help others.
In September 2012, Jason Krestanowich, also
known as Krusty, passed away unexpectedly.
For the last 2 years, Jason was a foster parent in
the Alternative Parent Home (APH) Service where
he provided a specialized foster home for three young
boys. Jason was a caring individual who had a big
heart and was passionate about helping youth.
During Janet’s time at MYS, she has advocated
for the proper respect, recognition, and leadership
positions for women. She has held leadership
positions in every service area at the Agency. In
each instance, Janet has led development and
programmatic change for improved delivery of
services to youth.
Following his passing, the staff at the Palomino
Club sponsored an event in Jason’s honour, in
cooperation with the Krestanowich family. The
money raised was donated to MYS to set up
“Krusty’s Fund.” This fund will be used to send
Krusty’s two youngest foster boys and their foster
siblings to summer camp until they age out of
care. Krusty’s Fund has been designated an MYS
fund and will be available for ongoing donations.
Reliable and supportive, Janet always finds
the time for her colleagues and former clients.
Congratulations, Janet, on 40 years of valued
service at MYS!
Great people making a difference.
33
The Derlago Family’s Story
A family’s journey to fostering…
This is our story of how a miracle was placed in our lives, at a time that
was least expected. A journey that has brought us joy and fulfillment.
This is how we met a beautiful, amazing, and precious child, Catherine…
I have to be honest, we were never interested in
becoming foster parents. The thought of doing
so never even came close to entering our minds.
We were more than thriving in our own life with
our family. We were fine with staying in our
comfort zone, and dealing with our own problems
as they came about. This all changed on an
afternoon in March.
My husband Ryan, a firefighter/paramedic, called
me from his fire station, sounding quite distraught.
He told me that he had just returned from a horrific,
tragic call at work. He said they just cut down a 16
year old girl who was found hanging from a rope
in her family’s garage. She had committed suicide.
It was awful. He said the girl was a foster child. We
talked about the sadness of this and were trying to
understand what happened to this girl that would
make her want to end her life?
Later that day, I was baking in the kitchen and
the tragedy was still heavy on my heart. The
phone rang and it was Brenda, a Clinical Case
Manager from MYS. I was confused as to why she
was calling, as we were only part-time respite
providers for one particular child at MYS.
She asked if we would be willing to provide an
emergency placement for a 15 year old girl for 5
days or until they found a permanent placement.
It seemed crazy that I just got off the phone with my
husband talking about the tragedy that just occurred
with a foster child and now MYS was calling to see
if we could help one of their foster children!
*Youth name changed to protect her privacy
34
I asked her to give me some information about the
child. Normally, my answer would be a straight up
no. Like I said, we were happy with our life, and
had no intentions of providing foster care. Brenda
said that this foster girl was a wonderful 15 year old
girl. Were we being given the chance to help a girl
that had the similar issues to the girl earlier that
day? I told Brenda that we would be happy to have
the girl live with us until they found a new foster
home for her.
She came over that night, and we loved her from
the moment we met her. It was crazy! We had
NO intentions of doing this fostering business!
But we couldn’t help it! We wanted her and
she belonged here. I just felt it. I knew that the
circumstances that led up to this moment were
all for a reason, and this was where she needed to
be. We thought it might not be possible because
there may have been another foster home lined
up for her. Thankfully, MYS made it all happen
for us. Brenda saw and believed that this is where
Catherine belonged. We are now proud parents to a beautiful,
intelligent, funny, helpful, secure, and confident
15 year old. We are excited for what the future
holds for her, and for us. If it weren’t for the
right doors that opened, and for MYS being so
instrumental in making this all fall into place so
beautifully, this never would’ve happened.
— Kirsten and Ryan Derlago
he came over that night, and we loved her
“Sfrom
the moment we met her.”
Overcoming
Challenges,
Celebrating
Our Successes
A Year to
Remember
Dragon Boat
On June 22 & 23, 2012 MYS staff took part in the
Canadian Cancer Society Dragon Boat Festival at
the Winnipeg Rowing Club. The MYS Paddles for
Hope team consisted of 29 paddlers who took on
the challenge of racing for a cure. MYS tied for the
gold medal in the mixed recreational team category
and was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for
being the 3rd highest in team fundraising.
MYS Raises the Roof
MYS was the partnering agency for the 2012-2013
Raising the Roof Campaign and participated in
the Toques Community Program to help bring
awareness to youth homelessness.
During the campaign, over 530 toques were sold
with 80% of the proceeds going to MYS. A big
thank you to the staff of Intact Insurance, who
volunteered their time, sold toques and raised
$1,127. All the proceeds raised from the campaign
will be used to help renovate the Youth Resource
Centre/Shelter Program.
CIBC Run for the Cure
MYS staff participated in the annual CIBC Run for
the Cure on Sunday, September 30, 2012. The MYS
team wanted to show support to a staff member
who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. To
support her, the team joined her and many others
in the 5 km run/walk and raised $2,516 for the
Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.
36
“A commun
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
Service Purchase Agreement
One of the more important tasks of the Senior
Management Team is to ensure proper contracts
and agreements are in place to support the work
of the Agency.
In 2012, MYS had to renew its Service Purchase
Agreement (SPA) with the Province of Manitoba.
It came at a time when the Province of Manitoba
was examining how it provided funding to service
providing agencies with the goal of streamlining
the process. MYS was chosen as one of the
agencies to participate in this pilot project.
The new SPA would cover all programs that
received funding from any department of the
Province. As well, the focus of the SPA was
shifting to be more specific about outcomes. This
fit well with MYS’ recent shift to focus more on
quality assurance and the results coming from the
services MYS was providing to youth and families.
During the process, there were compromises made
by both sides with a commitment to ongoing
discussions to resolve the outstanding issues. In
December 2012, MYS signed off on the SPA. MYS
is reporting annually to the Province with the
results of the work the Agency is doing. This will
result in better services to families and youth and
a more effective partnership between the Province
and MYS.
Day of Pink
This year MYS staff wore pink to work in support
of the International Day of Pink. Day of Pink
celebrates diversity and raises awareness to stop
homophobic, transphobic and bullying. It was
started in Nova Scotia when two straight high
school students saw a gay student wearing a pink
shirt being bullied. The two students intervened,
but wanted to do more to prevent homophobic and
transphobic bullying. They decided to purchase
pink shirts, and a few days later got everyone at
school to arrive wearing pink. They stood together
in solidarity and the result was that an entire school
stopped homophobic & transphobic bullying.
Kisewatisiwin
In February 2013, the Boys and Girls Club of
Thompson had their first Pucks for Kids hockey
tournament to help raise funds to support their
programs. Kisewatisiwin Services supported
this great local cause by participating in the
hockey tournament. With a lot of hard work,
determination and support from the fans, the
Kisewatisiwin Services team won the hockey
tournament!
nity of caring”
37
MYS Grants and Sponsorships 2012/13
To all our funders, sponsors, donors and friends who make contributions of their
resources, time, expertise, and creativity. They provide our youth with gifts-in-kind,
who generously contribute to our agency, and who fill our shelter and homes with
their support… thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Granting Organization
Program/Project
Amount
Assiniboine Credit Union
STOA (Life Train)
$3,500.00
Investors Group
Agency
$4,200
Jewish Foundation of Manitoba
Agency
$1,143.12
Kisewatisiwin (Wilderness Program)
$2500.00
Province of Manitoba Children and Youth Opportunities
MB4 Youth Division – School and Community Arts Program
STOA (PAY)
$2,000
TD Canada Trust
STOA (PAY)
$2,500
The Winnipeg Foundation
Camp and Summer Programming Grant
STOA (PAY)
$1,000
The Winnipeg Foundation
Youth in Philanthropy Mennonite Brethren Collegiate Institute
STOA (PAY, YRC, Life Train)
$500.00
MYS Education Trust Fund
$360
ARCH (Chancellor)
$4636.80
Manitoba Hydro
The Winnipeg Foundation
Young Philanthropists Network
The Winnipeg Foundation
EnviroGrant
Sponsorships
Assiniboine Credit Union
Payworks
Audio Works Production Services Ltd.
Andrew Peller Limited – Peller Estates Wines
Ceridian Canada Ltd.
Red River College
Coughlin & Associates Sigurdson Financial Group Inc.
Delta Winnipeg Hotel
Sirius Benefits Plans, Inc.
Ken’s Carpets and Urban Home Style Centre
The Exchange Group
Marrbeck Construction Ltd.
WestJet
Mawer Investment Management Ltd.
Winnipeg Building and Decorating
Paula Havixbeck – Winnipeg City Councillor
38
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
MYS Spring Fling
Spring Fling Event Honours Edward
Kennedy with the 2013 Sir Hugh John
Macdonald Memorial Award.
On April 17, 2013 MYS held their annual Spring
Fling Event at the Blaze Bistro in the Delta
Hotel. Over 150 guests enjoyed cocktails and
tapas throughout the evening and were entertained
by The Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra Quintet and
two young Canadian performers from Winnipeg
Studio Theatre.
Each year at this event, the Sir Hugh John
Macdonald Memorial Award is presented to an
individual/s in the community who demonstrate
the values and virtues of Sir Hugh John Macdonald,
in particular, respect and fairness and practical
assistance towards youth to help them develop life
skills for a better tomorrow.
This year Edward Kennedy, President and Chief
Executive Officer of The North West Company,
was presented with the Sir Hugh John Macdonald
Memorial Award for his voluntarism and his
dedication to his community. Mr. Kennedy
unselfishly dedicates his time and efforts to
benefit the community and countless charitable
organizations, boards, councils, and advisory
groups in Winnipeg. He has a long-standing
interest in social policy issues and has worked
in volunteer leadership roles with the United
Way of Winnipeg, the Conference Board of
Canada, and the Business Council of Manitoba.
Congratulations, Edward, and thank you!
This event was presented by Coughlin &
Associates in support of the MYS Youth Resource
Centre/Shelter Program Capital Campaign.
39
MYS Financial Report
For the fiscal year April 1, 2012 to March 31, 2013
Revenue
Government of Manitoba*
Child and Family Service Agencies
9,361,78833.97%
17,265,99762.66%
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada 45,8060.17%
United Way of Winnipeg
176,5760.64%
Wpg Housing and Homelessness
427,0391.55%
Private Donations
11,6440.04%
Miscellaneous Grants
27,4140.10%
Other
Total Operating Fund
238,6800.87%
27,554,944100.00%
Capital Fund181,362
Total Agency$27,736,307
Expenditures
Salaries and Benefits
18,042,83065.08%
Living and Care Costs
6,150,47822.19%
Operating Costs
1,795,6396.48%
Travel and Transportation Costs
536,6481.94%
Programming Costs
775,5612.80%
Capital and Facilities Costs
Total Operating Expenses
421,6901.52%
27,722,846100.00%
Excess of Revenue over Expenditures13,462
Total Agency$27,736,307
* Government of Manitoba includes
MB Family Services and Labour8,161,987
Healthy Child Manitoba703,600
MB Justice174,500
MB Urban Green Team9,995
MB Children and Youth Opportunities 311,706
Total Government of Manitoba$9,361,788
40
2012 / 2013 MYS Annual Report
Thank you for your
continued support of
Macdonald Youth Services.
Every contribution goes
a long way. For more
information, please contact
us at www.mys.ca.
Macdonald Youth Services would like to thank the youth, foster
parents, volunteers, and staff who graciously shared their stories.