Through partnership with the Waterloo Regional District School Board, Ray of Hope offers a non-traditional approach to education for youth struggling through personal challenges, truancy or criminal activity. The school’s inviting and calming atmosphere provides a place where youth are able to learn at a pace that matches their learning capabilities. Teachers and community case workers are able to work one-on-one with each student, helping to develop an individual Education Plan that best suits their individual needs.

Ray of Hope staff also provides encouragement for each student, helping them work through the challenges of personal and family issues. Recreational activities strengthen a student’s ability to work in a team environment and help to encourage self-esteem. Our goal at Ray of Hope is to equip students with the essential skills and confidence they need to successfully transition back into the mainstream education system. Nearing graduation of the program, students receive assistance in transitioning back into the community through resumé writing skills and job placement experience.

Ray of Hope’s Community Centre offers a place of safety and support to those struggling through poverty and homelessness in the core of downtown Kitchener. Each man and woman who visits the Centre is met by individuals who truly care about their well-being.

Working in partnership with local churches, businesses and volunteers, our Community Centre meets the practical needs of each guest who visits. We provide a hot meal daily, groceries, clothing, blankets, towels, personal hygiene products and shower and laundry facilities.

The Centre also provides programs such as Celebrate Recovery, Bible studies and an art program.

Ray of Hope’s Open Custody facility offers a place of hope where young men aged 12-17 are able to carry out their court-appointed sentence. Each resident is given the chance to change their life by learning the importance of responsibility, accountability and self-care. Open Custody facilitates the integration of youth back into society through community involvement and open discussion with counsellors and parent/guardians.

Ray of Hope’s Secure Custody facility offers a safe place for youth aged 12-17 to carry out their court-appointed sentences. Youth in this program have committed serious crimes and Secure Custody gives them an opportunity to redirect their lives. Our on-site school, sports, trades and chaplaincy programs help youth develop life skills and alternative strategies to cope with conflict.

Our staff is committed to giving youth the support they need to make wise choices for their lives. We offer each resident an individualized Plan of Care. The staff evaluate each youth’s unique situation and develop a plan to assist youth in overcoming personal, social and spiritual challenges. Working directly with the parents/guardians of each resident, our case workers help youth and their families work together to change their lives.

Parents/guardians are a vital component of each youth’s treatment plan and are required to attend regular sessions and monthly family meetings with a Ray of Hope case worker. Ray of Hope provides parents and guardians with an opportunity to learn and grow with others through weekly parent support groups. These groups offer knowledge about addictions, self-care and parenting approaches for dealing with at-risk youth. Parents are encouraged to participate in a support group until their youth has successfully completed their treatment program.
Ray of Hope offers addiction treatment programs which assist youth in the Waterloo and Wellington regions on their journey to overcoming addiction and substance abuse. We provide three levels of treatment to youth, as well as support to parents/guardians, with the ultimate goal of helping youth return to a life free of addiction.

Many people in the Kitchener downtown community have enjoyed the butter tarts and muffins that are prepared in Ray of Hope’s Morning Glory Café and Bakery. What many don’t know is just how impactful the café is to hundreds of young people. Our 6-month training program offers an alternative workplace experience and teaches participants the importance of responsibility and accountability. Participants develop confidence in their ability to graduate from the program and transition into the workforce on their own.

Morning Glory provides a non-threatening atmosphere where dedicated staff help youth reach their potential through skills training, counselling and educational support. Each participant is paid a standard wage which motivates them and increases their self-worth as they learn the importance of money management and budgeting.

Supporting Future Generations: The vision of the Morning Glory Café & Bakery came as a result of real need. Compassionate community leaders have dedicated time, finances and personal resources to make the café a real success. The café faces unique business challenges as many of the trainees need intensive supervision within the workplace and in their personal lives. The success of the program is clear and the need for financial support from private donors is critical.

Ray of Hope’s Youth Reintegration Program assists young men and women in their transition back into the community. Each youth receives personal mentorship and solutions to housing, education, family issues and employment. As a community-run program, Ray of Hope’s Youth Reintegration Program not only facilitates a youth’s transition back into the community, but also equips them with the necessary skills for making a positive contribution within their communities, schools and home life.