WRYM's November 2021 Netletter

From Dropping Out, to Moving In
Jason Weinberg, Executive Director 

Riley came to WRYM by way of the hospital, where he had received mental health treatment due to the family issues and suicidal ideation he was experiencing. Due to COVID 19 disruptions with university, and a contentious family life, Riley was at an all-time personal low without a place to live. When Riley arrived at WRYM, he stated that he felt so hopeless that he wanted to quit his post-secondary studies so that he could focus on rebuilding his life. It was not that he didn't enjoy school, Riley just didn't see how he could possibly resolve his issues and continue University.

​Over 5 months at WRYM, Riley went from hopeless to hopeful. Riley acquired counselling and continued outpatient mental health treatment with the support of staff. A routine was established that gave Riley personal fulfilment (including full-time employment) and the structure required to feel stable in his life. After many conversations with our staff, Riley decided that he did not need to quit school, and that he was excited to be able to return to full-time studies.  
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Well, we are ecstatic to tell you all that Riley moved directly from WRYM into student housing at his university!!!! When Riley left, he expressed that he was confident about his ability to "stand on his own two feet." From the hospital, to WRYM, to University, Riley never had to spend a night on the street. What would have happened if he did?

Perhaps Riley said it best: "WRYM provides opportunity for youth to potentially escape dangerous or abusive situations and it is a safe haven for one to focus on oneself in regards to individuality, responsibility, and social skills. WRYM saved me from the streets, and for that, I am grateful".

​The Deacon Ray Scholarship
Jason Weinberg, Executive Director ​

WRYM is pleased to announce that one of "our guys'' (like Riley!) will receive The Deacon Ray Scholarship in January of 2022. Thanks to Edy Haddad, who initiated this scholarship and  raised over $1,350.00 during the month of October to contribute towards it!  WRYM will be awarding The Deacon Ray Scholarship to one of our clients who is in post-secondary school that also demonstrates community mindedness / social responsibility through their volunteer work! 
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Commentary
Greg Goulin, Editor

Why are male youth seemingly ignored when considering the victims of domestic violence? Most of ”our guys” have been victims of domestic violence; and, if they learn by what they are exposed to, it twists their definition of what it means to be a male, most often diminishing their self image because they didn’t stand up to it “like a man” , (an unfortunate comment that I’ve heard far too often). The consequences are varied, but invariably negative, for them and our society, if not addressed.
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Vital Signs

WECFoundation - the 2021 Vital Signs ​Report is here! The Vital Signs Report combines national, provincial, and local data with residents’ views of important issues. The Vital Signs Report is used as an educational resource to engage the Windsor-Essex community in ongoing dialogue so we can make our community an even better place to live, work, play and grow. Read the report online at www.wecf.ca to find out what makes Windsor-Essex a ​great play and  start a conversation! #VitalWe

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Stay safe, and please share this with your friends.

Greg