Celebrating child and youth counsellors—the unsung heroes in a child’s life
May 2 to 8, 2005 is Child & Youth Counsellor Week
May 4, 2005, Belleville, Ontario—For 46 years, the child and youth counsellor (CYC) profession has been existence in Ontario. Throughout the province, this week is dedicated to CYCs who make a difference in the lives of young people. This year’s theme is Child and Youth Counsellors—Bringing the Pieces Together.

In the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board, CYCs provide support to students and their families. CYCs provide advocacy and counseling services within the school setting, striving to ensure all students have an equal opportunity to develop to their fullest behavioural, social and emotional capabilities.

“Child and youth counsellors are often the unsung heroes in a child’s life. We are pleased to have this opportunity to publicly recognize all they do for students in Hastings and Prince Edward counties,” remarks Janice Walker, Child and Youth Counsellor Supervisor.

The CYC team is committed to enhancing the vital link between school and home. CYCs work in a variety of settings in Hastings and Prince Edward communities, such as with the Children’s Aid Society, in group homes, hospitals, treatment centres, private practice, community health agencies, and many more.

The Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board has 54 schools serving 18,400 students, employing 1,070 teachers and 705 support staff. The Board covers a wide geographical area of 7,221 square kilometres bordered by Maynooth to the north, Deseronto to the east, Prince Edward County to the south, and Quinte West to the west.

For information contact:
• Kerry Donnell, Communications Officer (613) 966-1170 or 1 800 267-4350, ext. 2354