Cowichan Valley Youth Services Society

The Cowichan Valley Youth Services Society (CVYS) is a Canadian nonprofit organization focused on providing support and opportunities to young people and their families within the Cowichan Valley region of British Columbia. The organization operates under the business registration number 118870989RR0001 and is dedicated to strengthening the bonds of youth through various programs and services.

Mission and Vision

CVYS aims to create and provide opportunities that foster resilience, personal growth, and connection among youth. It emphasizes confidential, accessible, and inclusive support tailored to the unique needs of teens and their families, advocating for positive change and empowerment within the community.

Programs and Services

CVYS offers a range of free and confidential services primarily for youth aged 13 to 18, as well as support for parents and caregivers. Key offerings include:

• Counselling and Support Services: Professional counselling aimed at addressing emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges faced by youth, delivered in a safe and inclusive environment.
• Youth Employment Mentorship Program (YEMP): A 12-week training initiative for youth aged 15-30, comprising six weeks of paid skills training and life skills development to enhance employability.
• Connect Attachment Parenting Program: A 10-week group program supporting parents and caregivers of pre-teens and teens experiencing behavioral and emotional issues.
• Outreach and Community Engagement: CVYS collaborates with local organizations, including Indigenous communities, reflecting a commitment to decolonizing practices and fostering respectful relationships.

Community Involvement and Recognition

CVYS is a member agency of United Way Central and Northern Vancouver Island and receives funding from the Provincial Government of British Columbia, the Government of Canada, and community donations. The society is recognized for its inclusive services offered on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of various Coast Salish Nations, including the Quw’utsun’, Stz’uminus, Penelakut, Ditidaht, Malahat, Pacheedaht, Halalt, Lyackson First Nations, and the Métis Nation.

The organization has also received local community support, such as a notable $2,500 donation from the Duncan Lions Club to aid youth during the holiday season.

Land Acknowledgment and Commitment

CVYS openly acknowledges the indigenous lands on which it operates and commits to offering spaces and programming that honor and respect the cultures and histories of Indigenous Peoples. This stance is integral to its philosophy of decolonization and inclusion.

Summary

The Cowichan Valley Youth Services Society plays a vital role in the Cowichan Valley by supporting youth through counselling, mentorship, and family programs. Its dedication to creating empowering, safe, and inclusive environments has made it a cornerstone resource for young people and families navigating challenges in the region.

Note: This article is based on publicly available information about Cowichan Valley Youth Services Society as of April 2025.