It has been an exciting year for CVYS, we settled into our new building just in time to celebrate our 50th year of service in the Cowichan Valley! What an achievement for a small grass roots agency to reach, we are so proud to have reached such a momentous milestone. So many folks are responsible for getting us to 50 years, all the incredible staff over the years, the families we have supported, the individuals in the community that recognized the need for our services. We share this milestone year with all of you, and sincerely Thank You!
In the early seventies, a small group of people saw a need in the community for services for youth and young adults. They pooled together their resources and ran several programs, before securing a government contract to help get youth employed in the community and provide them with a place to stay. There were many challenges along the way, including lack of space available to run our programs out of. Back then, we were known as Community Options Society, helping youth that had left home, help for young expectant mothers, offering parenting programing for young parents, and an employment program.
Over the years our programming has evolved and changed, as well as our name, know known as Cowichan Valley Youth Services. But our mandate has always been to support youth where they are at, however that may look. Whether it is in providing outreach services, group programing, one on one counselling or family counselling, or a leg up in the job market with our Youth Employment Mentorship Program. We are here for youth and their families, and have been 50 years strong!!
Pictures below are from our 50th Community BBQ, held at our office on Coronation Ave.
