This fall, Scott Shantz, Radio Host and Contributor for CKNW’s Mornings With Simi show, visited Covenant House Vancouver to see our facilities, and to talk to staff and the young people we serve.
Scott didn’t know much about Covenant House, apart from knowing that it was a shelter for young people, prior to his visit. “It was so much more than I could have ever imagined. The spaces were bright, clean, and welcoming,” said Scott.
He learned about our wraparound care and one-size-fits-one approach to support youth. Scott learned about life skills that young people can access, such as budgeting, cooking, self-care, and how to advocate for yourself.
During his chat with staff, Scott learned more about the young people who find their way to our doors. He was introduced to the term ‘relentless engagement’, which means that staff are always present. It is often uncomfortable for youth to share their experiences, so staff are there to check in with the young people and are always available to listen.
The following day, Scott came back to Covenant House to chat with the young people who access our services. Through his discussions, Scott learned firsthand how lives can be changed when young people receive the care and support that they deserve.
Through his chats with young people, Scott discovered that our programs and services are designed to meet youth where they are at in their journeys, which enables youth to change their paths and aspire to the lives that they want for themselves.
Scott reflected on his own life and remembered that as a young person he was rebellious, was misunderstood, and didn’t trust authority. He then couldn’t imagine being that age and not knowing where he would sleep that night. For young people to take that first step and come to Covenant House is a really big deal and speaks to their resilience.
We would like to thank Scott and CKNW for taking the time to visit Covenant House Vancouver and not only learn more about what we do, but about the amazing young people in the community who deserve to live the lives that they want for themselves.
Listen to Scott’s audio of his discussions with the young people we serve, so that they can share their stories with you.