Alternatives For Youth

The Alternatives for Youth in Muskoka (AYM) Program is operated and managed by FYCSM.  AYM has been designated as a Ministry of the Attorney General, Youth Justice Committee site coordinating Youth Justice Services in the District of Muskoka since 1999.  These programs prevent further offending, provide meaningful consequences and engage community-based support systems for youth at risk.  Programs offered include:

Youth Justice Committee Program: Mandated by the Youth Criminal Justice Act for certain offences, this program is an alternative to the traditional court process.  Referrals are received from the Crown Attorney and the OPP for young person’s alleged to have committed a low risk offence.  Youth (12–17yrs old), their parents, and persons harmed participate in a Justice Circle where youth are given an opportunity to understand the impact their behaviour has had on themselves, others and the broader community.  This process often addresses the underlying reasons for the offending behaviour while providing an increased role for victims and communities. Once the youth fulfills the agreement, all charges are withdrawn.

Community Court Liaison:  Available to youth (12-17yrs) appearing in youth court in the Muskoka District, this program promotes and facilitates the use of community based options and services for young persons involved in the Criminal Justice System.  Services include:  Release Planning, Sentence Planning and Extra Judicial Measures.  The role of the Community Court Liaison is to operate as the court’s expert in making recommendations about where the youth might best be served in the greater community and which extra-judicial measures are suitable to make amends and hold a young person accountable for their actions.

Get A Plan Program (GAP): Providing community-based resources and support, this program assists youth up to age 18  who are in various situations such as, homeless, hungry, at risk of or who have committed an unlawful act and who require support both emotionally and financially in order to stay safe and plan for a healthy future.

For more information on AYM, contact us