IT’S IMPORTANT TO HAVE CHOICES!

Choices is one of our most popular programs at The West Toronto Youth Hub. The CHOICES program runs multiple times per year, so we wanted to take a moment to introduce our program coordinator and one of the stars of the West Toronto Youth Hub, Sara Francavilla!

Sara began her journey at Yorktown over three years ago as a placement student while completing her Child and Youth Worker advanced diploma. Before coming to Yorktown, she used her Behavioural Sciences Diploma, specializing in autism, to work within the York Catholic District School Board. Shortly after completing her placement, Sara joined the team at the West Toronto Youth Hub working in the Youth Mentorship Program and co-facilitating programs like Connect 4, Rainbow West and Choices. Sara has been a great addition to the team, bringing her fun energy and insightful input into the work she does with youth!

Sara explains what the CHOICES program is all about, and what it means to her to be a part of it: “Hey there! Thank-you for your interest in the CHOICES Program. My name is Sara and I’m the Program Coordinator!

You may be wondering what the CHOICES Program is?

CHOICES is a prevention, early intervention program that targets social and psychological factors that lead youth to engage in substance use and other risk-taking behaviours.

The CHOICES program typically consists of a series of 10 weekly sessions over a period of 10 weeks. However, in light of COVID-19 we are also offering 1-to-1 Choices programming as well as 5-day condensed cycles. Our next 5-day session starts on September 28^th.

The program provides youth, ranging from 12 to 25 years of age, with accurate and up-to-date information about the effects of various substances and the environmental influences supporting substance use. As well as providing information, we assist youth to develop the skills and confidence they need to resist risk-taking behaviours that include, among other things, substance use.

The best way to describe CHOICES, is to say it’s a fun, engaging, and interactive program that helps youth develop skills and knowledge necessary for a successful future.

I’ve always had a passion for helping others and having fun. I feel genuine human connection and strong interpersonal relationships holds the best results for our clients. I am always open to phone conversations or emails for any questions you may have.

Call if you have any questions and join the program! I look forward to meeting you, virtually and hopefully, in-person.”

To find out when the next session of Choices is, please visit the CHOICES program page or send Sara an email a saraf@yorktownfamilyservices.com. She will be happy to connect with you.

CHOICES is a program designed by Sarnia-Lambton Rebound, a caring partner in the successful development of youth. Funding for the CHOICES program is provided by the Ontario Trillium Foundation. Awareness and communications for CHOICES, as well as partial funds for program space, is funded thanks to proceeds from Ontario Charitable Gaming Association and Dolphin Bingo Fundraising.