Ontario Youth Matter!

The Ontario Youth Matter! (OYM) campaign for better youth policies is a network of community organizations calling on the Ontario government to implement a Provincial Youth Policy Framework. Such a Framework can lead to a better alignment of youth services between governments, ministries, and community agencies, and address the broad developmental needs of youth.

What is a Provincial Youth Policy Framework?
A Provincial Youth Policy Framework is a declaration of commitment to young people by the province. It is based upon a provincial dialogue and a successful partnership of relevant stakeholders.

The implementation of a youth policy is best achieved by an outcome based strategy. Literature on youth policy indicates that the successful implementation of a youth policy is fostered by:

-- A shared vision
-- Mechanisms for intergovernmental service co-ordination
-- A strategy for determining outcomes
-- Mechanisms for reviewing and revising services based on the needs and expectations of youth

Why do we need a Youth Framework?
A youth policy is an important investment for the future. Youth policy is progressively being acknowledged as one of the key factors and an important indicator for social and human development. In order to demonstrate that we value our youth, we need to promote public policies that enable effective programs to be designed and sustained for all youths.

For youth to reach their potential, it is important that they have enough resources, opportunities to grow physically and mentally, and an enabling/conducive environment where they can see a sense of purpose. There are a lot of challenges effecting young people today, such as increased academic and employment competition, unemployment, violence, homelessness, poverty, substance abuse, health concerns, isolation and marginalization.

The increased diversity in Ontario’s population has resulted in an increased diversity in youth needs and services required. Significant barriers exist to the availability, accessibility and appropriateness of youth programs and initiatives. A comprehensive youth policy framework would enable cohesion between policy decisions, program responses as well as enable better coordination, collaboration, synergy and accountability within the youth system.

Policy Principles
An overarching policy framework must serve the broad and diverse needs of youth and promote healthy adolescent growth in order to help youth meet their full potential. Ontario’s youth policy statement should recognize the following youth needs:

+ Safety Needs
+ Health & Development Needs
+ Engagement & Leadership
+ Access to Supports & Services
+ Community Responsibility
+ Equity
+ Partnerships