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From Dropping Out, to Moving In |
| Time is not the Essence There comes a moment in time when a situation gets tense, and we each think "I need a break." All of us can conceptualize the need to escape from a stressful situation. BUT, what happens when there is nowhere for a young person to go? What if the only place they know is where the tension exists? How long before things become unmanageable? |  |
For Steven, tensions in the household were rising and he had no friends or family in the city where he could go to get some support or reprieve. Despite the caring and loving parents in his life, there were escalating disagreements about his future. Steven wanted to work, and his parents wanted him to continue college. A simple disagreement, but one both parties felt passionately about. After an argument escalated into an unhealthy situation, Steven did not feel safe continuing to live at home and he came to WRYM for help. Very quickly, our staff were able to support Steven emotionally and provide him with the reprieve he needed regarding the disagreements at home. Steven's parents spoke with staff about their desire to end the disagreements and have Steven return home as soon as possible. Staff assured Steven's parents that WRYM would counsel him to return home when he felt it was safe to do so, and that a break from the home may be all that is required for emotions to settle.
In less than 24 hours, WRYM staff were proven correct when Steven's parents picked him up to return home.
The entire family appeared relieved about this decision. Had WRYM not been there to provide the reprieve Steven and his family needed, where would he have gone? Would he ever have made it home again when he decided he could not take it anymore?
Due to one short day at WRYM, we will never need to know what could have happened. What we do know, is that Steven is home and safe now. And Our Supporters helped make this possible!
Without you, we could not have made this happen for Steven. Thank you for being a supporter of WRYM. Please consider becoming a monthly investor by signing up for automatic donations each month, as found on our Canada Helps page!
In less than 24 hours, WRYM staff were proven correct when Steven's parents picked him up to return home.
The entire family appeared relieved about this decision. Had WRYM not been there to provide the reprieve Steven and his family needed, where would he have gone? Would he ever have made it home again when he decided he could not take it anymore?
Due to one short day at WRYM, we will never need to know what could have happened. What we do know, is that Steven is home and safe now. And Our Supporters helped make this possible!
Without you, we could not have made this happen for Steven. Thank you for being a supporter of WRYM. Please consider becoming a monthly investor by signing up for automatic donations each month, as found on our Canada Helps page!
The Windsor Residence for Young Men needs long-term partners to help youth who are experiencing homelessness. On average it takes almost $400,000 per year to make sure that youth in Windsor-Essex receive the housing, supervision, food, clothing, case management, support, compassion, life-skills and the aftercare they require to end homelessness once and for all - even during this challenging COVID 19 era, when youth have less options than ever before. Remember, youth are not “discharged” from functional families, through our Aftercare services concern, care and advice continues to be provided and expands as WRYM’s “family” grows.
How much is a young person's life worth?
What WRYM does now will also significantly benefit our community now and in the future, with the productive citizens “our guys” become. Please consider being a long term partner and sign up to make monthly investments in our community through our automated system in order to help a youth in Windsor find a place to call home again.
What WRYM does now will also significantly benefit our community now and in the future, with the productive citizens “our guys” become. Please consider being a long term partner and sign up to make monthly investments in our community through our automated system in order to help a youth in Windsor find a place to call home again.
Thank You Landscape Ontario, Windsor Chapter!
| The Board of Landscape Ontario, Windsor Chapter, held a golf fundraiser for their members with all entry fees and donations directed to the Windsor Residence for Young Men. We would like to express our appreciation to them and their tournament sponsor, Landscape Effects, for making this significant donation possible. |  |
Thanking Jason Weinberg
| Finally, I would like to thank Jason Weinberg, our new Executive Director, for providing you with the stories about “our guys” as well as making them possible. If you would like Jason to speak to a small group by attending in person or by Zoom, it can be arranged. There are many more stories, program details, data and statistics at his fingertips. |  |
For instance, did you know that our Youth Independence Program, which he devised, is now being adopted by other agencies across Ontario?
Stay safe and please share this with your friends.
Greg
 | Gregory D. Goulin, LSM, JD (ret.), Editor |
You CAN go home again
Brian's parents had just got divorced. In the midst of the family changes and chaos, Brian felt left behind, angry, and an increasing sense of despair. Conflict in the home escalated to the point that Brian did not think he could take it anymore, and his mental health deteriorated to where he was considering taking his own life. Brian contacted the Children's Aid for help, and due to his age and their eligibility restrictions, he was referred to WRYM for help. Brian came into WRYM as a scared young man who did not see a future for himself. Issues with family, mental health, substance use, physical health, and with a manifested lack of life-skills, Brian explained to us that he felt a sense of worthlessness.
Over 8 months at WRYM, Brian learned how wrong he was, and how much worth he truly possessed. Brian graduated the Youth Independence Program at WRYM and received a high school credit, he enrolled back in school, gained employment, participated in counseling, acquired eye glasses, and learned a tremendous amount of life skills and personal resilience. Although Brian improved in his well-being and stability, he felt that he would still prefer to live with family and be there for his siblings. Once his mother was settled in their new home and a reunification plan was established, Brian was able to move in with his mother and his siblings, and he is still there today!
We are so happy to tell you about Brian's success, but we have to ask, what is one life worth? How much does 8 months of youth homelessness cost this community? What would happen if Brian wasn't at WRYM? Well, what we do know is that for $12,390, Brian received 24/7 lodging, professional support, case management, life skill teaching, housing assistance, and Aftercare support that resulted in an end to his homelessness. What would 8 months in an emergency shelter, hospital, jail, or treatment center cost us? What would it cost him?
In light of those questions, THANK YOU to our champions for investing in the youth of Windsor-Essex and their futures. Ending youth homelessness is achievable, one young person at a time. We can do this TOGETHER.
Brian's parents had just got divorced. In the midst of the family changes and chaos, Brian felt left behind, angry, and an increasing sense of despair. Conflict in the home escalated to the point that Brian did not think he could take it anymore, and his mental health deteriorated to where he was considering taking his own life. Brian contacted the Children's Aid for help, and due to his age and their eligibility restrictions, he was referred to WRYM for help. Brian came into WRYM as a scared young man who did not see a future for himself. Issues with family, mental health, substance use, physical health, and with a manifested lack of life-skills, Brian explained to us that he felt a sense of worthlessness.
Over 8 months at WRYM, Brian learned how wrong he was, and how much worth he truly possessed. Brian graduated the Youth Independence Program at WRYM and received a high school credit, he enrolled back in school, gained employment, participated in counseling, acquired eye glasses, and learned a tremendous amount of life skills and personal resilience. Although Brian improved in his well-being and stability, he felt that he would still prefer to live with family and be there for his siblings. Once his mother was settled in their new home and a reunification plan was established, Brian was able to move in with his mother and his siblings, and he is still there today!
We are so happy to tell you about Brian's success, but we have to ask, what is one life worth? How much does 8 months of youth homelessness cost this community? What would happen if Brian wasn't at WRYM? Well, what we do know is that for $12,390, Brian received 24/7 lodging, professional support, case management, life skill teaching, housing assistance, and Aftercare support that resulted in an end to his homelessness. What would 8 months in an emergency shelter, hospital, jail, or treatment center cost us? What would it cost him?
In light of those questions, THANK YOU to our champions for investing in the youth of Windsor-Essex and their futures. Ending youth homelessness is achievable, one young person at a time. We can do this TOGETHER.
| Thank you home depot !!! The employees of home depot store 7228 at Walker & Division in Windsor are celebrating the success of their in-store #orangedoorproject fundraising campaign. From July 6 to August 1. They helped raise $9,314.00 to assist residents of the Windsor Residence for Young Men (#wrym). This is the largest amount raised in a friendly competition among the 9 The Home Depot Canada stores in southwestern Ontario. |  |
On behalf of the residents, volunteers and staff of WRYM, we sincerely thank them for their cheerful and energetic dedication to “our guys”.
Four days left to register to golf in
WRYM’s 2nd Annual Charity Golf Tournament
WRYM’s 2nd Annual Charity Golf Tournament
| - Location: Rochester Place Golf Club - Date: Sunday, September 12 - Scramble format - Tee times starting at 1:00pm - 12 available spots for golfers |  |
Register as an individual golfer or put together a few family members, friends or co workers. REGISTER ONLINE HERE or contact Sue at events@wrym.ca.
Don’t want to golf! No problem!
Come out and join us for dinner at the Rochester Club Parkside Grille. REGISTER ONLINE HERE or contact Sue at events@wrym.ca.
Prizes are still needed for our prize table! If you can help us out by donating a prize, please contact Sue at events@wrym.ca.
Stay safe and please share this with your friends!
Greg
Don’t want to golf! No problem!
Come out and join us for dinner at the Rochester Club Parkside Grille. REGISTER ONLINE HERE or contact Sue at events@wrym.ca.
Prizes are still needed for our prize table! If you can help us out by donating a prize, please contact Sue at events@wrym.ca.
Stay safe and please share this with your friends!
Greg
Gregory D. Goulin, LSM, JD (ret.), Founder
The Windsor Residence for Young Men
The Windsor Residence for Young Men
Alone and At-Risk
| All of the youth who have come to The Windsor Residence for Young Men are unique in! We see many different personality types, passions, and viewpoints from residents in all shapes and sizes. |  |
No two youths are alike! Despite this, there are two consistencies which are shared by almost all of our clients. They all feel alone, and they are all very much at-risk of harm.
Recently, one young man best exemplified this. Trevor came to WRYM after his mother and step-father kicked him out of the house due to frequent disagreements. After he was asked to leave, Trevor's parents informed him they were moving out of the city, and that Trevor could not come with them. Trevor entered WRYM without a high school diploma and not attending school, while suffering from a wide range of mental health and behavioral issues, as well as having no idea where he could live or what he should do. Additionally, Trevor possessed a developmental disability, which limited his capacity to resolve these issues without support.
Step by step, WRYM staff helped Trevor get his life in order. Trevor enrolled in school through our Youth Independence Program, and received a high school credit for graduating! After the Youth Independence Program, Trevor decided to remain in school and even took on additional courses to try and finish his diploma faster. Trevor acquired a family doctor so he could address his medications and physical health, as well as a Trustee to assist with his budgeting and financial planning. Each day, Trevor worked on his self-improvement and attempted to determine a plan for himself which would be safe and sustainable. With assistance from staff after many long talks, Trevor decided to move in with a friend and his friend’s family. Although this meant he was leaving the city, Trevor was ecstatic to be living with someone he considered to be closer than his own family. Sadly, Trevor was not the first, nor will he be the last, resident who has to learn that our birth family does not have to be our real family.
| Please Participate in WRYM’s 2nd Annual Golf Tournament On Sunday, September 12, 2021 at Rochester Place Golf Club. Tee times are starting at 1:00PM. Gold Sponsorship, Silver Sponsorship and 3 Hole Sponsorships, as well as golfer and dinner guest reservations are still available. Prize Donations are also needed! |  |
If you would like to contribute to our golf tournament prize table, please send an email to Sue at events@wrym.ca.
Visit our tournament page for more details.
Visit our tournament page for more details.
Stay safe and please share this with your friends.
Greg
Gregory D. Goulin, LSM, JD (ret.), Founder
The Windsor Residence for Young Men
Greg
Gregory D. Goulin, LSM, JD (ret.), Founder
The Windsor Residence for Young Men
Investing in Citizenship Results !!!
| It was a terrific effort! We started off to sponsor one resident in our program; and, we nearly sponsored two on the road to productive citizenship for Canada Day. We have raised $16,925 thanks to the tremendous generosity of our donors. Thank you all so very much! |  |
Directors' Positions are Available on WRYM's Board
| WRYM has openings for a few new Directors on its Board. We presently meet remotely on the second Wednesday of each month from 6-8pm. If you are interested, please review the Director's Role description attached, complete the basic Membership application and attach it in a reply to executivedirector@wrym.ca with a note outlining your interest and qualifications. Don't be hesitant, even an old guy like me made the grade; and, I am sure you are much brighter, younger, energetic and more skilled in the ways of e-communication than me. |  |
WRYM's Annual Golf Tournament
| Golfers, Sponsors, and Friends - SAVE THE DATE! September 12 is WRYM's 2nd Annual Charity Golf Tournament! Join us for an exciting day of golf and contests. Finish it off with a scrumptious meal provided by Rochester Golf Club's own Parkside Grille. All proceeds will go to help youth to leave homelessness behind and build new lives. Find out more at www.wrym.ca | |
Gregory D. Goulin, LSM, JD (ret.), Founder
The Windsor Residence for Young Men
Invest in Citizenship 2021
By Investing in Citizenship Together, We Become a Productive Community
By Investing in Citizenship Together, We Become a Productive Community
By Gregory D. Goulin, LSM, JD (ret.), Founder - The Windsor Residence for Young Men
June is Canadian Citizenship Month at The Windsor Residence for Young Men.
June is Canadian Citizenship Month at The Windsor Residence for Young Men.
| Our program was founded and remains designed to produce productive citizens from impressionable homeless young men who might otherwise become broken men draining on our community resources, involved in crime, addictions, violence (domestic, chauvinistic and otherwise), dependent on welfare to exist. We do this by modelling a healthy family, sometimes the only family our guys have ever known, with respect for all, including one’s self. |  |
Homeless male youth 15-25 years of age are 8 times more likely to die “on the street” than their peers; and, males have a suicide rate 3 times higher than females. While males of the same age are the most violent demographic in any society, they are also the largest group to present with the most serious injuries and wounds at Ontario’s emergency wards. As well, they silently suffer about 40% of the sexual assaults within that age range. They, too, have been the victims of domestic assault; but, hopefully we can model a functional family to learn from and prevent repetition. Additionally, during this pandemic, they can only “shelter in place” if they have a safe place to shelter in!
We invest your donations in our guys’ future; but, they have to apply for admission and establish that they want to change their plight. WRYM is not a shelter to attend for a bed and a meal; rather, its program is similar to a scholarship program sponsoring those who want to learn basic life skills while staying in school or employment if not seeking to do so. In other words, our guys have to give to get – that’s citizenship.
| Unfortunately, our government seems to only sponsor shelter nights or room & board, not programming providing the life skills to transition youth off the street. Consequently, our community also has to give to get productive citizens from homeless youth whose prospects only get worse the longer they are on the street. As a result, some of our supporters have pooled pledges to match your donations during the month of June, ending on Canada Day. At present, the donation match “pool” is up to $3,000 “deep”. If you wish to participate with a donation, mark it “citizenship”. If you wish to encourage others with a significant donation, it should be marked “ citizenship match”. You may click on the red donation square below or mail your cheques to the residence at 1505 Langlois Avenue Windsor, Ontario, Canada N8X 4M3 | Some of our supporters have pooled pledges to match your donations during our Invest in Citizenship 2021 Campaign, which ends on Canada Day, July 1.  You could turn $1 into $20,000 this June! The Great Canadian Giving Challenge is back! This June, every $1* donated to any charity on CanadaHelps (our secure funds transfer provider) is an automatic chance to WIN $20,000 for your favourite charity. |
Thank you for looking kindly upon these young men; because, they have tremendous potential. Even if they are “hard to hug” sometimes, they deserve a decent chance in life.
If you have a moment, why not watch our Invest in Citizenship video:
If you have a moment, why not watch our Invest in Citizenship video:
From High School to Independence
For every high school student in their graduating year, the COVID 19 pandemic has cancelled all rights of passage. No varsity sports, no prom, no class trip, and no walking down the stage to receive your diploma.
For Adam, he was also managing being told he could not live at home anymore after a family conflict in the home put him in a situation where he did not feel safe to return. With no other family and no in-person services available, at such a vulnerable age - Adam came into WRYM's Transitional Housing Program to try and sort out his life.
For every high school student in their graduating year, the COVID 19 pandemic has cancelled all rights of passage. No varsity sports, no prom, no class trip, and no walking down the stage to receive your diploma.
For Adam, he was also managing being told he could not live at home anymore after a family conflict in the home put him in a situation where he did not feel safe to return. With no other family and no in-person services available, at such a vulnerable age - Adam came into WRYM's Transitional Housing Program to try and sort out his life.
Quickly, Adam showed that he already possessed many skills and an abundance of work ethic. Yet, he often struggled with emotional stability and coping with the position he had found himself in. After connecting him with many community supports (like counselling), building up his confidence through fulfilling endeavours (such as the job he acquired), establishing life skills needed to be resilient (such as self-esteem), and having many long talks with staff, WRYM is ecstatic to announce that Adam not only graduated high school, with a job, during a pandemic, but, he also just moved out on his own!!!
Adam needed a bit longer in WRYM than some, but each day helped this young man overcome the sheer adversity he faced, to a position where he was able to meet so many of his goals, and leave the possibility of homelessness far behind. It means the world to us, that he will never have to face that challenge. Without WRYM, staff, volunteers, and YOU, Adam would not be where he is today.
Thank you for helping the lives of so many youth like Adam.
Jason Weinberg, Executive Director, executivedirector@wrym.ca
Thank you for helping the lives of so many youth like Adam.
Jason Weinberg, Executive Director, executivedirector@wrym.ca
From May 1-31, volunteers and supporters will be raising funds for The Windsor Residence for Young Men. This is a COVID-SAFE event for indoors or outdoors. Participate on your own or with members of your immediate household, and send in your photos. Choose your activity - walk, run, bike, push ups, treadmill, etc. You can create a team, join a team, join as an individual, or simply donate in support. Registration is free and donations are encouraged! Find out more at www.wrym.ca.
Brian Worrall, President, jbrianworrall@gmail.com
Brian Worrall, President, jbrianworrall@gmail.com
Got Any Hand Sanitizer?
A recent Health Canada advisory has warned that Hiram Walker’s hand sanitizer products, which WRYM was fortunate to receive, contain an “unacceptable ingredient” which it states can cause “dry skin, leading to irritation or cracking.” By my calculations, WRYM could now replace our 30 gallons of donated Wiser’s sanitizer for about $1,500 depending on the kind we purchase, at the cost of: 4L for approximately $50.
https://windsorstar.com/news/local-news/hiram-walker-slams-health-canada-over-hand-sanitizer-safety-alert?utm_term=Autofeed&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Facebook#Echobox=1617923762
https://windsor.ctvnews.ca/mobile/hiram-walker-hand-sanitizer-recalled-by-health-canada-1.5379437
 | FEED-BACK AND SUGGESTIONS are always welcome. Greg, Editor Gregory D. Goulin, LSM, JD (ret.) Founder & Treasurer The Windsor Residence for Young Men |
What if we weren’t here?
Sometimes, we all just need a safe space and time to work things out. In one very recent situation, a young man named Jordan came to WRYM after a family conflict forced him into a position of homelessness. In addition to having nowhere to live, Jordan was very young, possessed significant developmental issues, had concerns with addiction, and did not have the life-skills or maturity necessary to navigate his situation alone.
In response, WRYM brought Jordan into our Transitional Housing Program to provide him with safety and stability while determining what transition from homelessness may be available to him. After participating in some lessons of our Youth Independence Program and establishing appropriate goals to actualize his case management, Jordan decided that he wanted to gain employment and start providing for himself. Well, we are proud to report that not only was Jordan successful in acquiring employment, but his personal progress at WRYM was so extensive that his family was willing to have him return home for a successful reunification!
In approximately one month, this very vulnerable youth went from unemployment and homelessness to beginning a job and living with family. Although Jordan himself deserves the credit for his accomplishments, the question must be asked - What if we weren’t here? What if he didn’t come to WRYM that first night? Where would Jordan have gone? What would the outcome be to him? Would he have ever made it home again?
Wherever he might have gone, Jordan never needs to face that reality now. He won't need to walk into a shelter, roam the street at night, beg someone for a couch to crash on, or face even worse existences. On behalf of Jordan and the many others like him, thank you for helping us never having to answer that question - What if we weren’t here?
In approximately one month, this very vulnerable youth went from unemployment and homelessness to beginning a job and living with family. Although Jordan himself deserves the credit for his accomplishments, the question must be asked - What if we weren’t here? What if he didn’t come to WRYM that first night? Where would Jordan have gone? What would the outcome be to him? Would he have ever made it home again?
Wherever he might have gone, Jordan never needs to face that reality now. He won't need to walk into a shelter, roam the street at night, beg someone for a couch to crash on, or face even worse existences. On behalf of Jordan and the many others like him, thank you for helping us never having to answer that question - What if we weren’t here?
Recent Shelter and Pandemic Press
I am very concerned about possible confusion caused by the recent press our community’s homeless shelter system has acquired. I assure you, first, that WRYM is not a homeless shelter. WRYM is transitional housing - and we only succeed when youth admitted to our program are transitioned from homelessness, off the street, with the skills we have helped them to acquire. Second, with our policies, procedures and a bit of luck, we have not yet had a single case of COVID-19 among WRYM’s residents or staff!
Recent Shelter and Pandemic Press
I am very concerned about possible confusion caused by the recent press our community’s homeless shelter system has acquired. I assure you, first, that WRYM is not a homeless shelter. WRYM is transitional housing - and we only succeed when youth admitted to our program are transitioned from homelessness, off the street, with the skills we have helped them to acquire. Second, with our policies, procedures and a bit of luck, we have not yet had a single case of COVID-19 among WRYM’s residents or staff!
I’m not at WRYM now - but I haven’t left !
I’m not at WRYM now - but I haven’t left !
After much consideration and discussion with our President, Brian Worrall, and our Program Director, Jason Weinberg, I have submitted my resignation as the Executive Director of the Windsor Residence for Young Men. My recent neurosurgery has been effective in the sense that it seems to have stopped the neuropathy that was progressing in my limbs. I am even slowly gaining better use of same, to some extent. While I can now drive and engage in activities that are not strenuous, when I do I must wear a special neck brace with a plate to protect and support the sections of the back of my cervical vertebrae which were removed exposing my spinal cord. As a result, Jason has assumed my duties on site since the 15th of October, 2020; and, I have primarily been working remotely.
I and the Board of Directors have been extremely impressed with Jason’s performance and are confident in his abilities. Consequently, we have unanimously agreed to promote him to the position of Executive Director in my place. I will remain as a consultant, Treasurer/bookkeeper and Netletter editor; but, not as the person staff need for on-site direction.
While I certainly miss my interaction with WRYM’s staff and residents, I truly believe that both they, you and WRYM will be better served by Jason’s proven ability, talent and style. In my considered opinion, we are all fortunate to have Jason in his new position; and, I ask you to assist him in every way, as I will myself.
While I certainly miss my interaction with WRYM’s staff and residents, I truly believe that both they, you and WRYM will be better served by Jason’s proven ability, talent and style. In my considered opinion, we are all fortunate to have Jason in his new position; and, I ask you to assist him in every way, as I will myself.
SAVE THE DATE!
WYRM'S 2ND ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2021 with TEE TIMES STARTING AT 1:00PM
ROCHESTER PLACE GOLF CLUB,
981 COUNTY RD.2, BELLE RIVER, ON, N0R 1A0
Netletter Subscription
If you know anyone who you think would like to be a subscriber to this netletter, have them email me at greggoulin@cogeco.net and I will put them on our distribution list.
If you know anyone who you think would like to be a subscriber to this netletter, have them email me at greggoulin@cogeco.net and I will put them on our distribution list.
Greg
Gregory D. Goulin, LSM, JD (ret.)
Founder & Treasurer, (pro bono),
The Windsor Residence for Young Men
Gregory D. Goulin, LSM, JD (ret.)
Founder & Treasurer, (pro bono),
The Windsor Residence for Young Men
THANK YOU!
This is a grateful “shout out” to all the participants, their sponsors, and Sue Freeman, the organizer of our most successful Rough Night Out on what was probably the coldest night of this year!
This is a grateful “shout out” to all the participants, their sponsors, and Sue Freeman, the organizer of our most successful Rough Night Out on what was probably the coldest night of this year!
From WRYM to Resiliency
Often when a youth comes to The Windsor Residence for Young Men there is a void in their life due to the absence of healthy solid support systems, friends and family. One young man, Corey, truly faced this tragic loneliness. Despite his charisma, intelligence, and kindness, Corey did not have family or friends that he could count on. Time and time again, Corey's supports led him astray, turned on him or turned away when he needed them most. Upon coming to WRYM, Corey was experiencing homelessness, involved in several significant legal matters, struggling with schooling, and facing deteriorating mental health due to the serious issues going on in his life.
After supporting Corey through his legal matters, teaching him routines to succeed in his academics, and empowering his artistic dreams, Corey began to impress all of us with his perseverance and personal growth. By connecting him with community support to help manage his housing, mental health, physical health, finances, education, and legal issues, Corey's support system became the robust supportive "safety net" that WRYM can provide and every young person needs.
We are proud to say that Corey has now been accepted into College, has been 'sponsored' for his artistic skills, and has transitioned to a semi-independent living apartment of his very own!
Thanks to your support and the hard work of our staff, Corey has replaced homelessness with hope, and added WRYM to his own resiliency. Way to go Corey; and, we still have your back!
Often when a youth comes to The Windsor Residence for Young Men there is a void in their life due to the absence of healthy solid support systems, friends and family. One young man, Corey, truly faced this tragic loneliness. Despite his charisma, intelligence, and kindness, Corey did not have family or friends that he could count on. Time and time again, Corey's supports led him astray, turned on him or turned away when he needed them most. Upon coming to WRYM, Corey was experiencing homelessness, involved in several significant legal matters, struggling with schooling, and facing deteriorating mental health due to the serious issues going on in his life.
After supporting Corey through his legal matters, teaching him routines to succeed in his academics, and empowering his artistic dreams, Corey began to impress all of us with his perseverance and personal growth. By connecting him with community support to help manage his housing, mental health, physical health, finances, education, and legal issues, Corey's support system became the robust supportive "safety net" that WRYM can provide and every young person needs.
We are proud to say that Corey has now been accepted into College, has been 'sponsored' for his artistic skills, and has transitioned to a semi-independent living apartment of his very own!
Thanks to your support and the hard work of our staff, Corey has replaced homelessness with hope, and added WRYM to his own resiliency. Way to go Corey; and, we still have your back!
Sustainability of WRYM
As most of you know WRYM is primarily sustained by the private donations of individual and corporate citizens to whom we cannot sufficiently express our appreciation. However, as is to be expected, most of your generosity is expressed during funding drives or seasons of giving which presents me with the problem of guesstimology during my budgeting efforts and future planning. Consequently, I am asking you to consider monthly giving for which we have an app. on our website through CanadaHelps with the use of your credit card, (while post-dated cheques work as well). Essentially, consider how much your donations to WRYM totalled last year, or what you plan to give this year. If it was $100, would you consider $10 per month, if $500 then $50, and so on.
I realize that this would also mean a 17% increase in your giving over the year; but, it would be less per month, help you budget too, can be discontinued at any time and division by 12 is also most appreciated as well; or, perhaps you would like to donate less on a monthly basis, reserving some for special times. I also realize that WRYM, while a charity, must be run like a business; but, unfortunately unlike most retail businesses, we cannot run on a “Black Friday” basis.
As most of you know WRYM is primarily sustained by the private donations of individual and corporate citizens to whom we cannot sufficiently express our appreciation. However, as is to be expected, most of your generosity is expressed during funding drives or seasons of giving which presents me with the problem of guesstimology during my budgeting efforts and future planning. Consequently, I am asking you to consider monthly giving for which we have an app. on our website through CanadaHelps with the use of your credit card, (while post-dated cheques work as well). Essentially, consider how much your donations to WRYM totalled last year, or what you plan to give this year. If it was $100, would you consider $10 per month, if $500 then $50, and so on.
I realize that this would also mean a 17% increase in your giving over the year; but, it would be less per month, help you budget too, can be discontinued at any time and division by 12 is also most appreciated as well; or, perhaps you would like to donate less on a monthly basis, reserving some for special times. I also realize that WRYM, while a charity, must be run like a business; but, unfortunately unlike most retail businesses, we cannot run on a “Black Friday” basis.
(WRYM wishes to add Directors to its Board
WRYM can have up to 12 Directors on its Board while we function well with 7-8. However, looking to the future, we also try to familiarize new Directors with our procedures, mentoring them for positions as officers or committee chairs of our charitable corporation. If you, or someone you could recommend, are interested, please advise me by email (greggoulin@cogeco.net) containing a short bio with work and volunteer experience as well as other interests. We are a working Board which remotely meets once a month for about 2 hours after about an hour reading reports provided the weekend before; but, invariably Directors are called upon to participate in fundraising and committee efforts as well. We encourage donors and employees of business donors, clubs and other funders to apply. At present, skills demonstrated in organizational efficiency and management, finance, media and public relations, as well as donor development would be appreciated. Directors are not involved in program management or delivery; rather, in providing the means by which to make same possible. Give me a call if you have questions. (226.221.8464)
WRYM can have up to 12 Directors on its Board while we function well with 7-8. However, looking to the future, we also try to familiarize new Directors with our procedures, mentoring them for positions as officers or committee chairs of our charitable corporation. If you, or someone you could recommend, are interested, please advise me by email (greggoulin@cogeco.net) containing a short bio with work and volunteer experience as well as other interests. We are a working Board which remotely meets once a month for about 2 hours after about an hour reading reports provided the weekend before; but, invariably Directors are called upon to participate in fundraising and committee efforts as well. We encourage donors and employees of business donors, clubs and other funders to apply. At present, skills demonstrated in organizational efficiency and management, finance, media and public relations, as well as donor development would be appreciated. Directors are not involved in program management or delivery; rather, in providing the means by which to make same possible. Give me a call if you have questions. (226.221.8464)
Stay safe, our guys need you!
Greg
| | Gregory D. Goulin, LSM, JD (ret.) Executive Director, (pro bono), & Founder |
WRYM’s Virtual ROUGH NIGHT OUT
Begins Friday, 19 February 2021, at 6pm
We’re doing it again, respecting social separation, which might actually hi-lite the plight of homeless youth. Some of you who participate may actually be “on your own … like a rolling stone”. This is WRYM’s major winter fundraising event and there are many new ways to participate when, while distanced, we are virtually connected. Unfortunately this year, my recovery from neurosurgery on my neck limits my participation to backing a winner, our Program Director, Jason Weinberg; but, there are many winners who will participate in various ways. Please participate or sponsor participants by noting your winner on your sponsorship donation. See the attachment to get started and for a good “hoot” mocking our “crazy” participants who accept the challenge, in their own ways.
Thank you, Sue Freeman, Chair of Events and Fundraising, for organizing another signature event!
Begins Friday, 19 February 2021, at 6pm
We’re doing it again, respecting social separation, which might actually hi-lite the plight of homeless youth. Some of you who participate may actually be “on your own … like a rolling stone”. This is WRYM’s major winter fundraising event and there are many new ways to participate when, while distanced, we are virtually connected. Unfortunately this year, my recovery from neurosurgery on my neck limits my participation to backing a winner, our Program Director, Jason Weinberg; but, there are many winners who will participate in various ways. Please participate or sponsor participants by noting your winner on your sponsorship donation. See the attachment to get started and for a good “hoot” mocking our “crazy” participants who accept the challenge, in their own ways.
Thank you, Sue Freeman, Chair of Events and Fundraising, for organizing another signature event!
Finding one's self
At WRYM, we fully embrace a youth's transition into adulthood, and the self-exploration that all individuals must go through before they decide "who" they want to be. Recently, a trans male youth - that was a survivor of abuse, a graduate of the Child Welfare system, and a visible minority - came to the WRYM program during his journey of self-discovery. From changing his name, to trying out new appearances, and making new friends, Johnathan was able to get something from WRYM that he never got from his family: acceptance during his journey. As Johnathan progressed through the residence, he settled on a new name, enrolled back in school, addressed his mental health, gained some new acquaintances, established some life-skills, and acquired an independent living placement with the support of staff. Although WRYM was only a small part of Johnathan's continuing journey, it acted as the gateway to a brighter future. By providing a non-threatening, stable, and supportive environment to address the issues pertaining to his homelessness, Johnathan was able to get the help needed to get back on his feet.
Thank you for all of the support you have provided to help turn around the lives of guys like Johnathan. Our staff and residents would not be here without you, our wonderful community, and all of your efforts for “our guys”!
Together, we are a community
Here we are, still in the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, but there is hope for a better future sometime in 2021. Meanwhile, the challenges continue.
We can say with satisfaction that, to date, not one case of COVID-19 has occurred within The Windsor Residence for Young Men. Our pandemic regimen has been strict and our program remains effective. We have accessed funding to pandemic-proof our programs from the local administrators of the Government of Canada’s Emergency Community Support Fund (ECSF), namely The WindsorEssex Community Foundation and The United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County. We thank them. Ironically however, our core Transitional Housing and Aftercare programs, designated as frontline essential services, do not of themselves qualify for federal and provincial funding administered by the City of Windsor.
At WRYM, we provide a “family” environment where formerly homeless youth learn important life skills, how to access the resources of our community, and how to become active empowered citizens. Fortunately for these at-risk youth, our family has been recognized by our community members themselves as an essential service. Even in a pandemic, religious and community groups, private foundations, companies, employee groups, and many, many individuals have responded with generous donations. We invite you, our community, to stay with us as we move forward in 2021. Please join us at www.wrym and www.facebook.com/windsorresidenceforyoungmen for news and updates as, together, we help at-risk youth build new lives.
Thank you, so very much - Greg!
Gregory D. Goulin, LSM, JD (ret.)
Executive Director, (pro bono), & Founder
The Windsor Residence for Young Men
At WRYM, we fully embrace a youth's transition into adulthood, and the self-exploration that all individuals must go through before they decide "who" they want to be. Recently, a trans male youth - that was a survivor of abuse, a graduate of the Child Welfare system, and a visible minority - came to the WRYM program during his journey of self-discovery. From changing his name, to trying out new appearances, and making new friends, Johnathan was able to get something from WRYM that he never got from his family: acceptance during his journey. As Johnathan progressed through the residence, he settled on a new name, enrolled back in school, addressed his mental health, gained some new acquaintances, established some life-skills, and acquired an independent living placement with the support of staff. Although WRYM was only a small part of Johnathan's continuing journey, it acted as the gateway to a brighter future. By providing a non-threatening, stable, and supportive environment to address the issues pertaining to his homelessness, Johnathan was able to get the help needed to get back on his feet.
Thank you for all of the support you have provided to help turn around the lives of guys like Johnathan. Our staff and residents would not be here without you, our wonderful community, and all of your efforts for “our guys”!
Together, we are a community
Here we are, still in the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, but there is hope for a better future sometime in 2021. Meanwhile, the challenges continue.
We can say with satisfaction that, to date, not one case of COVID-19 has occurred within The Windsor Residence for Young Men. Our pandemic regimen has been strict and our program remains effective. We have accessed funding to pandemic-proof our programs from the local administrators of the Government of Canada’s Emergency Community Support Fund (ECSF), namely The WindsorEssex Community Foundation and The United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County. We thank them. Ironically however, our core Transitional Housing and Aftercare programs, designated as frontline essential services, do not of themselves qualify for federal and provincial funding administered by the City of Windsor.
At WRYM, we provide a “family” environment where formerly homeless youth learn important life skills, how to access the resources of our community, and how to become active empowered citizens. Fortunately for these at-risk youth, our family has been recognized by our community members themselves as an essential service. Even in a pandemic, religious and community groups, private foundations, companies, employee groups, and many, many individuals have responded with generous donations. We invite you, our community, to stay with us as we move forward in 2021. Please join us at www.wrym and www.facebook.com/windsorresidenceforyoungmen for news and updates as, together, we help at-risk youth build new lives.
Thank you, so very much - Greg!
Gregory D. Goulin, LSM, JD (ret.)
Executive Director, (pro bono), & Founder
The Windsor Residence for Young Men
