Every Kid in Our Communities of Leeds-Grenville
Youth Service Providers Working Group
Terms of Reference
Introduction:
The Youth Service Providers Work Group of Every Kid in our Communities brings together coalitions and working groups that are currently working toward better outcomes for youth in Leeds-Grenville. Through information sharing, analysis of current data and cooperative planning the Youth Service Providers work group (YSP) strives to promote a coordinated, comprehensive approach to building and supporting healthy, safe, caring, responsible, and educated young people.
Vision:
The working group supports the vision of the Lead Table of Every Kid in our Communities.
Guiding Principles: (from Stepping Up: A Strategic Framework to Help Ontario’s Youth Succeed, Government of Ontario)
· A positive asset-based view of youth
· Targeted support for those who need it
· Collaboration and Partnership
· Meaningful Youth Engagement and Leadership
· Diversity
· Transparency
· Evidence-based Choices
Responsibilities of the Youth Service Providers Workgroup
· Ongoing sharing by coalitions and workgroups building/supporting positive outcomes for youth
· Ongoing assessment of the current assets, successes, gaps and needs in the community in terms of supporting positive outcomes for youth
· Ongoing sharing of current provincial and local data related to youth development
· Facilitate cooperative planning between youth service providers
· Engage organizations and individuals in the work of the Youth Service Providers work group
· Develop and implement tools to evaluate activities
· Identify and share current research and best practices
· Identify and pursue opportunities for obtaining resources to support activities
Scope
As a Work Group of the Lead Table of Every Kid in our Communities the Youth Service Providers work group will ensure that programs/services for youth and families are planned and delivered in an integrated manner.
Accountability
The Youth Service Providers workgroup is recognized as a sub group of the Lead Table of Every Kid in our Communities of Leeds and Grenville and receives advice from the Lead Table and its Coordinator and involved agencies, including review of annual plans and evaluation of outcomes.
In the decision-making process consideration will be given for the impact that any recommendations may have on the service system as a whole and particularly on the organizations and agencies that deliver services to children and youth.
MEETINGS
Meetings will be convened a minimum of 6 times per year or at the call of the Chairs. E-mail and conference calls may be conducted to facilitate the sharing of information and the need for direction. Decisions would be then confirmed at the next scheduled meeting.
Agendas, meeting notes and written reports will be circulated via e-mail prior to meetings. Meeting notes and the development of the agenda are the responsibility of all members of the Work Group under the direction of the Chair.
The full participation of all members of the Work Group is recognized, encouraged and valued; the best decisions are made when all members contribute their perspectives and experiences.
DECISION MAKING
A Consensus building approach will be used whenever possible; a vote in certain situations may move the process forward or provide clarity.
MEMBERSHIP
The Youth Service Providers work group strives to bring together representatives of coalitions/organizations who are currently supporting youth. Others are welcomed as they become aware of the partnership and decide to participate in it. Coalitions/workgroups include:
Agency/Organization membership includes but is not limited to:
RNJ Youth Services
Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario
Employment and Education Centre
LLG Health Unit
Connect Youth
Brockville Police Services
Children’s Mental Health of Leeds and Grenville
Girls Inc.
Assault Response and Care Centre
Victim Services of Leeds-Grenville
United Counties of Leeds-Grenville (Data Analysis Coordinator)