Welcome to Indigenous Youth Services Youth Center
Winner of the 2024 Global Recognition Award!
Winner of the Assisted Living Facilities category at the Canadian Choice Award 2024!
Founder & President Christian R. Brown
Christian R. Brown, founder and President of Indigenous Youth Services, leads an organization dedicated to providing culturally sensitive support for Indigenous youth. Christian, a First Nations from Skidegate in Haida Gwaii, BC, brings deep cultural insight to his mission.
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Mission
Mission
Mission
Our mission is centered on empowering Indigenous youth to overcome the unique challenges they face and flourish as individuals within their communities. Recognizing the historical and ongoing systemic barriers that disproportionately affect Indigenous youth, our aim is to provide them with a safe, supportive, and culturally inclusive envi
Our mission is centered on empowering Indigenous youth to overcome the unique challenges they face and flourish as individuals within their communities. Recognizing the historical and ongoing systemic barriers that disproportionately affect Indigenous youth, our aim is to provide them with a safe, supportive, and culturally inclusive environment where they can thrive.
Through our comprehensive programs and services, we strive to address the multifaceted needs of Indigenous youth and promote their holistic well-being. Our approach is rooted in a deep respect for their cultural heritage, traditions, and values. We believe that by honoring and incorporating their cultural identity, we can empower Indigenous youth to develop a strong sense of self-worth, resilience, and pride in their heritage.
At the heart of our mission is a commitment to fostering self-determination and self-advocacy among Indigenous youth. We work collaboratively with them, their families, and their communities to co-create personalized plans that reflect their unique aspirations, strengths, and challenges. By involving them actively in the decision-making process, we aim to promote their agency and ensure that our interventions are meaningful and relevant to their lives.
We recognize that the journey towards empowering Indigenous youth is not a solitary one. It requires forging partnerships with Indigenous communities, elders, and leaders to ensure that our programs are culturally responsive and aligned with community needs. By collaborating with local organizations and agencies, we leverage collective wisdom, resources, and expertise to create a comprehensive support network for Indigenous youth.
Our commitment extends beyond immediate outcomes. We are dedicated to nurturing long-term, sustainable change in the lives of Indigenous youth. By equipping them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and opportunities, we aim to break the cycles of intergenerational trauma and create a pathway for future success and leadership within their communities.
Ultimately, our mission is to champion the rights, well-being, and empowerment of Indigenous youth. We strive to create a society where they are valued, respected, and provided with equal opportunities to thrive. Through our unwavering dedication, cultural sensitivity, and collaborative approach, we aim to make a lasting impact on the lives of Indigenous youth, helping them build a brighter and more promising future.
Method
Mission
Mission
Our organization is dedicated to implementing professional, individualized, and culturally inclusive support methods for Indigenous youth with complex behavioral and support needs. We are committed to revolutionizing the youth care system by providing specialized evidence-based care that is tailored to meet the unique requirements of thi
Our organization is dedicated to implementing professional, individualized, and culturally inclusive support methods for Indigenous youth with complex behavioral and support needs. We are committed to revolutionizing the youth care system by providing specialized evidence-based care that is tailored to meet the unique requirements of this population.
Central to our approach is a focus on delivering results-focused interventions that address the underlying emotional and behavioral response pathways of Indigenous youth. We recognize the importance of identifying and targeting these pathways to facilitate genuine and lasting positive change at a foundational level. By understanding and addressing the root causes of their challenges, we aim to promote transformative growth that can endure throughout their lifetime.
Our methods are rooted in a strong evidence base, drawing from the latest research and best practices in the field. We continuously strive to stay updated on advancements in clinical knowledge and integrate them into our approach to ensure the highest quality of care. By employing evidence-based interventions, we can provide Indigenous youth with effective and proven strategies for overcoming their behavioral and support needs.
Cultural inclusivity is a fundamental principle in all aspects of our work. We recognize the importance of honoring and respecting the unique cultural identities, traditions, and values of Indigenous youth. Our programs are designed to be culturally sensitive and responsive, taking into account the specific needs and strengths of each individual. By incorporating culturally appropriate practices and involving Indigenous communities in the planning and implementation of our services, we aim to create a supportive and empowering environment for Indigenous youth.
Collaboration and interdisciplinary teamwork are integral components of our approach. We bring together a diverse team of professionals, including psychologists, social workers, counselors, and other specialists, to provide comprehensive and holistic care. By pooling our expertise and working collaboratively, we can develop comprehensive treatment plans that address the multifaceted needs of Indigenous youth.
Through our commitment to professional, individualized, results-focused, and culturally inclusive support, we aspire to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of Indigenous youth. We recognize the importance of tailoring our interventions to the unique needs and strengths of each individual, and we are dedicated to fostering their growth, well-being, and resilience. Our ultimate goal is to empower Indigenous youth to overcome challenges, thrive in their communities, and build a positive and promising future.
Model
Mission
Model
Our programs are grounded in compassionate, client-centered, culturally supportive, and results-focused approaches that aim to facilitate individual growth, autonomy, and positive change. We prioritize the well-being and unique needs of each client, providing them with a supportive and nurturing environment for their personal development.
Central to our approach is a deep commitment to compassion, recognizing the importance of empathy, understanding, and non-judgmental support in the therapeutic process. We strive to create a safe and trusting space where clients feel heard, valued, and respected. By fostering a compassionate atmosphere, we aim to establish a strong therapeutic alliance that promotes collaboration and empowers clients to actively participate in their own journey towards positive change.
Client-centeredness is a fundamental principle that guides our interventions. We believe that clients are the experts of their own experiences and possess inherent strengths and resources that can contribute to their growth. Our programs are tailored to the unique needs, preferences, and goals of each client, ensuring that their individuality is honored and their voices are heard. By actively involving clients in the decision-making process, we empower them to take ownership of their therapeutic journey and make informed choices that align with their values and aspirations.
Cultural support and sensitivity are integral components of our programs. We recognize the diverse cultural backgrounds and identities of our clients, including the importance of cultural values, traditions, and beliefs in shaping their experiences. We strive to create an inclusive and culturally affirming environment where clients feel validated and understood. By integrating culturally appropriate practices and being attuned to the cultural nuances of our clients, we aim to ensure that their unique cultural perspectives are respected and incorporated into their therapeutic experience.
Our programs are specifically designed to produce tangible results and meaningful outcomes. We employ evidence-based interventions and utilize outcome measures to track progress and evaluate the effectiveness of our approaches. By focusing on measurable goals and objectives, we aim to maximize the impact of our interventions and facilitate positive changes that are meaningful and sustainable for our clients.
Ultimately, our programs seek to empower individuals to achieve personal growth, enhance their autonomy, and foster positive change in their lives. Through our compassionate, client-centered, culturally supportive, and results-focused approaches, we strive to create a therapeutic environment that promotes well-being, resilience, and the realization of each client's full potential.
Being the Difference
Generating Systematic Change
As an organization dedicated to addressing the mental health crisis affecting Indigenous youth in Canada, we have recognized the need for comprehensive solutions that go beyond traditional foster and group home models. We have implemented innovative support programs such as our treatment homes, In-Home behavioural support, and childcare agency consulting services to provide specialized care and support to Indigenous youth and their families.
Our treatment homes offer a unique and supportive environment that is tailored to the specific needs of each individual youth. We understand that traditional foster and group home models often fall short in providing the specialized care and support that Indigenous youth require. That's why our team of experienced professionals provides personalized care and support to help youth build essential life skills, foster independence, and develop a sense of community and belonging. We recognize that a strong sense of community and connection to culture is crucial to the healing and growth of Indigenous youth, and our treatment homes provide a safe and supportive space for youth to reconnect with their culture and traditions.
Our In-Home behavioural support program is designed to provide individualized care and support to indigenous youth in the comfort of their own homes. We understand that youth are often more comfortable and receptive to treatment when they are in familiar surroundings and close to their families and communities. Our team of trained professionals is equipped to support a wide range of behavioural and developmental conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety disorders, and depression. We work closely with families and communities to provide culturally responsive care that is tailored to the unique needs of each youth. Our In-Home behavioural support program focuses on keeping families together. We understand that many Indigenous youth are placed in care due to complex family situations, and we believe that supporting families is an essential part of our work. Our team of professionals works closely with families and communities to provide comprehensive support that addresses the root causes of the youth's behaviour, while also helping families build the skills and knowledge necessary to provide ongoing support within the home.
We also offer childcare agency consulting services to help other organizations better serve indigenous youth in their care. Our team of experts provides guidance and support in implementing evidence-based practices that promote positive outcomes for youth. By partnering with us, agencies can improve the quality of care they provide and ensure that Indigenous youth receive the specialized support they need to succeed. Our consulting services are designed to be flexible and tailored to the specific needs of each organization, ensuring that we can provide the most effective support possible.
Compared to traditional foster and group home models, our support programs are equipped with the resources and expertise necessary to address the unique needs of indigenous youth. We recognize the importance of culturally responsive care and work closely with our communities to provide care that is respectful, compassionate, and effective. We believe that every youth deserves the opportunity to thrive, and our programs are designed to provide the highest quality of care and support possible.
We are dedicated to providing comprehensive support to Indigenous youth and their families. Our treatment homes, In-Home behavioural support, and childcare agency consulting services are designed to be flexible, culturally responsive, and effective. We recognize the importance of keeping families together and work closely with communities to provide the support necessary to ensure that Indigenous youth have the opportunity to thrive. We believe that by working together, we can make a significant impact on the mental health and well-being of Indigenous youth in Canada.
Failing Supports
Mental Health Crisis
Indigenous youth face a significantly higher risk of experiencing severe trauma during childhood than their non-Indigenous peers. In fact, studies have shown that Indigenous youth are 4x more likely to experience trauma, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, neglect, and exposure to violence. These experiences can have lasting impacts on their mental health and well-being, and may contribute to a range of negative outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Suicide rates among Indigenous youth are also alarmingly high. First Nations youth have suicide rates up to 6x higher than the general population, while Inuit suicide rates are even more shocking, at 11x the Canadian average. These elevated rates are seen across all regions, with Nunatsiavut in Labrador experiencing suicide rates 25x higher than the rest of Canada, and some areas seeing rates up to 40x the national average. The territory of Nunavut has seen a staggering 27% of all deaths since 1999 attributed to suicide.
These statistics paint a devastating picture of the current state of Indigenous mental health in Canada. Suicide is currently the leading cause of death for First Nations youth and adults under 45 years old, highlighting the urgent need for action and intervention.
These factors accumulate to an overall lower quality of life and a life expectancy 17.2% lower (14 years less) for Indigenous peoples in Canada.
At Indigenous Youth Services, we are motivated by a deep commitment to the well-being of our communities and our youth. We believe that by taking a revolutionary approach to mental health care, we can address the root causes of mental health conditions and create a brighter future for Indigenous youth in Canada.
Our programs and services are designed with the unique needs of Indigenous youth in mind, providing catered support that is culturally appropriate and trauma-informed. We understand that the intergenerational trauma and systemic discrimination faced by Indigenous peoples can have a profound impact on mental health and well-being. By working to uncover and confront these root causes, we can help Indigenous youth take control of their mental health and connect with their communities and cultural heritage.
Early intervention is critical in preventing negative outcomes and promoting positive mental health. Our focus on prevention and support aims to equip Indigenous youth with the tools they need to thrive. By providing a safe and supportive environment, we can help foster resilience and promote healing.
Failing Supports
Substance Use
Substance abuse and addiction continue to pose significant challenges for Indigenous youth in Canada. Indigenous youth are at a higher risk of experiencing an overdose, with a 5x greater likelihood of experiencing one, and a 3x greater likelihood of dying from one than other residents.
Additionally, 25% of Indigenous peoples in Canada suffer from addiction, with Indigenous youth at up to 6x greater risk for every alcohol-related problem than non-Indigenous youth. The impact of alcohol abuse is particularly stark, with the cause of death due to alcohol use at a rate of 43.7 per 100,000 among Indigenous Canadians, which is more than 2x the national average.
These sobering statistics highlight the urgent need for effective prevention and intervention strategies to address substance abuse and addiction among Indigenous youth. Such strategies should take into account the unique cultural and historical contexts of Indigenous communities, and prioritize access to culturally safe and relevant treatment options.
At Indigenous Youth Services, we recognize the profound impact of substance abuse and addiction on Indigenous youth and their communities. Our programs aim to provide early intervention and support to Indigenous youth who are at risk of developing substance use disorders by providing culturally relevant and trauma-informed care.
We recognize the need for holistic approaches to healing that prioritize traditional Indigenous practices, such as smudging, drumming, and ceremony, in combination with evidence-based therapies. We also emphasize the importance of family involvement and community support in the recovery process.
Our substance abuse and addiction programs provide a range of services, including counseling, case management, harm reduction, and referrals to treatment programs. Our approach emphasizes harm reduction strategies that seek to minimize negative consequences while supporting youth in making positive changes.
We also provide education and prevention programs that raise awareness about the risks and consequences of substance abuse and addiction, as well as the importance of seeking help when needed. Through these programs, we hope to reduce the rates of substance abuse and addiction among Indigenous youth, and empower them to live healthy and fulfilling lives.
Failing Supports
Broken Homes
The overrepresentation of Indigenous youth in the Canadian foster care system is a result of systemic issues and historical trauma. Indigenous children were taken from their families and communities during the residential school era, and today's child welfare system often perpetuates similar injustices. Indigenous youth are more likely to be apprehended from their homes due to poverty, inadequate housing, and a lack of resources in their communities.
The number of Indigenous children in the child welfare system has been increasing rapidly, and the situation has been declared a humanitarian crisis. The number of Indigenous children in care increased by 71% between 1998 and 2018, and the number of Indigenous children in care is now 3x higher today than residential schools at their peak. The system often fails to provide Indigenous children with adequate support, cultural knowledge, and accommodations. This leads to displacement, discrimination, and xenophobia following arrival at their first placement. Indigenous youth are also routinely transferred between placements, which can be traumatizing and can result in further instability and insecurity.
Children in foster care are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing a range of negative outcomes. They are nearly 4x more likely to die of suicide, homicide and infectious diseases. Children who have been in care also have a higher likelihood of developing mental health problems, engaging in substance abuse, and dropping out of school. Involvement in the child welfare system has been shown to independently predict incomplete high school, duration of homelessness, discontinuous work history, less severe types of mental illness, multiple mental disorders, early initiation of drug and/or alcohol use, and daily drug use.
At Indigenous Youth Services, we recognize the urgent need to address the systemic issues facing Indigenous youth in the Canadian foster care system. Our programs were specifically designed to confront these issues by providing culturally appropriate, respectful, and revolutionary support to Indigenous youth and their families.
One of our primary focuses is on in-home early intervention programs. By providing support and resources to families in their own homes, we aim to prevent the unnecessary apprehension of Indigenous youth and reduce the trauma associated with being removed from their families and communities.
Our programs also prioritize the importance of cultural knowledge and accommodations while utilizing our revolutionary support approaches . We work closely with Indigenous communities and organizations to ensure that our programs are culturally appropriate and respectful of Indigenous knowledge and traditions. By providing Indigenous youth with access to cultural programs and teachings, we aim to promote a sense of pride in their identity and cultural heritage, which can help to prevent displacement, discrimination, and xenophobia.
In addition to these interventions, our programs also provide mental health services, housing support, and educational resources to Indigenous youth and their families. By addressing the range of negative outcomes associated with involvement in the child welfare system, we aim to improve outcomes for Indigenous youth and help to break the cycle of intergenerational trauma.
Our programs were designed to confront the systemic issues facing Indigenous youth in the Canadian foster care system by providing culturally appropriate and respectful support and resources. We believe that by working together with Indigenous communities and organizations, we can create positive change for Indigenous youth and their families.
Failing Supports
Pandemic of Incarceration
Indigenous incarceration is a deeply concerning issue that has persisted in Canada for decades. The overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system is a result of systemic and historical factors, including colonization, residential schools, and the forced removal of Indigenous children from their families and communities. Indigenous adults are incarcerated at a rate that is over ten times higher than non-Indigenous adults in Canada. As mentioned earlier, despite representing only 4.5% of the adult population in Canada, Indigenous adults accounted for 31% of incarcerated people from 2018 to 2019. This overrepresentation is even more pronounced among Indigenous women, who make up 42% of the women’s federal prison population.
The impacts of Indigenous incarceration are severe and wide-ranging. Incarceration often leads to the disconnection from family, community, and culture, which can exacerbate the challenges Indigenous people face, including mental health issues and addiction. The cycle of incarceration also perpetuates intergenerational trauma and contributes to the marginalization of Indigenous peoples.
The overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system is closely linked to their experiences in the child welfare system. The disproportionate removal of Indigenous children from their families and communities, as well as the lack of cultural support and understanding within the child welfare system, increases the risk of involvement with the criminal justice system. In fact, approximately 66% of Aboriginal inmates have histories involving placement into foster or group homes.
We at IYS, recognize the need for effective intervention programs to address the root causes of Indigenous incarceration. Our early and high-risk behavioural intervention programs are designed to provide culturally appropriate and holistic support to Indigenous youth who are at risk of involvement with the criminal justice system.
By providing early intervention and support, we aim to prevent the displacement of Indigenous youth from their families and communities, which is a key factor in their overrepresentation in the criminal justice system. Our programs prioritize the restoration and preservation of cultural connections, which can help prevent the disconnection from family, community, and culture that often occurs with incarceration.
Our programs also aim to address the underlying issues that contribute to involvement with the criminal justice system, including mental health issues and addiction. By providing culturally safe and relevant treatment options, we can help address the disproportionate rates of addiction and mental health issues among Indigenous youth and adults.
We believe that by empowering Indigenous youth and providing them with the support they need to succeed, we can break the cycle of systemic marginalization that contributes to Indigenous incarceration. By working towards a brighter future for Indigenous communities, we can create a more just and equitable society for all Canadians.
Failing Supports
Plague of Homelessness
Indigenous homelessness is a significant issue in Canada, and it is closely tied to the challenges faced by Indigenous youth within the child welfare system. According to a report from the Government of Canada, Indigenous people make up a disproportionate number of those experiencing homelessness, with estimates suggesting that Indigenous people represent anywhere from 20% to 30% of the homeless population in urban areas.
Furthermore, a study by the Canadian Observatory on Homelessness found that Indigenous people experience homelessness at a rate of at least 10x that of the general Canadian population. The same study also found that Indigenous people who are homeless tend to experience longer periods of homelessness and are more likely to experience chronic homelessness.
The root causes of Indigenous homelessness are complex, but they are often linked to systemic issues such as poverty, discrimination, and colonialism. Indigenous people are more likely to experience poverty and income inequality than non-Indigenous people, which can contribute to homelessness. Discrimination and racism can also make it more difficult for Indigenous people to access housing and other supports.
In addition, the legacy of colonialism has had a profound impact on Indigenous homelessness. The forced displacement of Indigenous people from their traditional lands and communities, as well as the imposition of residential schools and other assimilationist policies, has led to intergenerational trauma, poverty, and marginalization.
Given the close link between the child welfare system and Indigenous homelessness, it is clear that addressing the issues faced by Indigenous youth in care is an important part of any strategy to address Indigenous homelessness. Providing culturally appropriate and supportive care for Indigenous youth can help to prevent them from becoming homeless in the first place, while also reducing the risk of long-term homelessness and other negative outcomes.
As an organization committed to the well-being of Indigenous youth, Indigenous Youth Services is passionate about addressing the issue of Indigenous homelessness in Canada. Our programs and services are designed to support Indigenous youth who may be at risk of homelessness, providing them with the tools and resources they need to maintain stable housing and build a brighter future.
One of our primary goals is to provide culturally appropriate and trauma-informed support to Indigenous youth who are in or at risk of entering the child welfare system. By addressing the root causes of trauma and discrimination, we can help to prevent homelessness before it occurs. We also work to support Indigenous youth who are currently experiencing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless, providing critical support services that include housing support, mental health services, and access to education and employment opportunities.
At the heart of our approach is a deep commitment to empowering Indigenous youth and supporting their connection to their communities and cultural heritage. We recognize the profound impact that colonialism and intergenerational trauma can have on Indigenous people, and we are committed to working towards healing and reconciliation. By providing Indigenous youth with the support and resources they need to build positive relationships with their communities and cultural traditions, we can help to break the cycle of homelessness and create a brighter future for Indigenous youth, communities, and all of Canada.
Community Crisis
System Outcomes
Indigenous youth in Canada are disproportionately affected by the challenges within the child welfare system, leading to higher rates of trauma, depression, suicide, substance use disorder, and homelessness. These challenges are compounded by a lack of cultural knowledge and support within the traditional support institutions. Indigenous youth are often displaced and face discrimination, making it difficult to maintain connections to their culture and community.
At Indigenous Youth Services, our mission is to provide early intervention and support to Indigenous youth who are at risk of being involved in the child welfare system. We aim to challenge and overcome the systemic issues within the child welfare and mental health systems by providing culturally appropriate support and accommodations that respect Indigenous traditions, values, and practices. By doing so, we hope to help Indigenous youth maintain connections to their culture and community, prevent displacement, and reduce the rates of trauma, depression, suicide, substance use disorder, and homelessness among Indigenous youth. Our goal is to empower Indigenous youth to succeed and thrive, breaking the cycle of systemic marginalization and creating a brighter future for generations to come.
