Youth Services
Supporting Black and racialized youth who are facing barriers at school, at home, or in the community.
CAFCAN Youth Services
CAFCAN’s Youth Services are designed to support Black youth and their families through culturally responsive, strengths-based, and community-rooted programming. We work alongside young people ages 12–29 to help them navigate life’s challenges, build confidence, strengthen their sense of identity, and access the supports they need to thrive.
Grounded in Afri-centric values and lived experience, our youth programs provide safe spaces for honest conversation, mentorship, skill-building, and healing. Through one-on-one support, wrap-around services, workshops, and community engagement, CAFCAN is committed to nurturing purpose, resilience, and leadership in the next generation.
Our approach recognizes that youth do best when they feel seen, heard, and supported not just as individuals, but as members of families and communities.
AMANI – Mental Health and Substance Use Program
AMANI is CAFCAN’s culturally responsive Mental Health and Substance Use Program serving Black youth ages 12–29 and their caregivers. Formerly known as SAPACCY, AMANI provides affirming counselling, therapy, and support services that center the lived experiences of Black youth and families.
Our counsellors and therapists work collaboratively with youth to develop individualized plans that align with their identified goals, strengths, and needs. Services are primarily delivered virtually, based on client preference, ensuring accessibility and comfort.
AMANI also engages in community education and systems-level work.Referrals to AMANI come from schools, child welfare agencies, and self-referring caregivers, reflecting the program’s trusted role within the community. For more information visit: AMANI – Mental Health and Wellness for Us, by Us.
Lift As We Rise Program (LAWR)
Lift As We Rise is a values-driven youth development program grounded in the Nguzo Saba principles of Nia (Purpose) and Ma’at (Integrity, Justice, and Respect), delivered through CAFCAN’s P.I.E.R Framework: Purpose, Integrity, Elevation, and Respect.
Throughout the program, youth are supported to reflect on their personal purpose, future aspirations, and the roles they envision for themselves within their communities and society. Guided discussions and activities encourage participants to explore ethical decision-making, accountability, respectful communication, and social responsibility.
By the end of the program, participants are able to clearly articulate their goals and sense of purpose, while gaining tools that support personal growth, leadership development, and collective well-being. Lift As We Rise reinforces the importance of uplifting oneself while contributing positively to the community.
Youth Outreach Program (YOW)
CAFCAN’s Youth Outreach (YOW) Program provides direct, relationship-based support to Black youth ages 12–29 and their families who may be experiencing additional barriers or challenges. The program focuses on meeting youth where they are and helping them navigate systems, access resources, and build pathways toward stability and well-being.
Youth involved in YOW receive one-on-one support from trusted staff who listen, advocate, and help connect them to appropriate services. Through wrap-around supports, skill-building opportunities, and community workshops, the program promotes positive engagement, confidence, and connection. YOW creates space for real conversations, real support, and real change.