Youth Services

YOCISO programs are specifically designed to assist immigrant youth, ages 13 to 24, with their settlement and integration process. Through this process, these youth gain the necessary skills to achieve their goals. They also develop a positive mindset to begin to overcome the challenges they may be facing, so that they can contribute to Canadian society.

These programs are offered both at the elementary and high schools levels in the Ottawa area, community health centres, and at the YOCISO Newcomer Youth Centre.

YOCISO’s Newcomer Youth Centre, is a safer space for immigrant and refugee youth to receive free support through various programs.  YOCISO offers academic, life skills, counselling, and arts-based support in a fun, interactive, and newcomer youth-centered space.

The YOCISO team consults with youth to deliver programming that is tailored to their needs and interests. YOCISO provides opportunities to engage with arts and skill development that may not otherwise be accessible to newcomer youth.

YOCISO uses a youth-lead approach. Its workshops, special events, and projects are organized by the youth themselves on an ongoing basis.