Partnering to Pilot FASD and Justice Training at Yukon College
Whitehorse – Yukon College, working with the Government of Yukon, Department of Justice, has developed an FASD and Justice Training Program for the Northern Institute of Social Justice, located at Yukon College. The training is being piloted with a group of frontline workers drawn from justice, education, and health and social service departments in the Yukon government and some First Nation governments, The pilot focuses on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) in youth and adults. Working together through a series of modules, participants have an opportunity to increase knowledge, and develop new perspectives and practical skills.
Program participants learn about interacting effectively with clients. Topics covered include: how to communicate effectively; developing an empathetic understanding of life with FASDs; understanding the neurological components of FASDs so that workers can change their response accordingly; and applying practical knowledge in FASDs contextual situations. The pilot consists of ten 3-hour modules. The completion of the pilot program is acknowledged with a certificate.
“Our strategic goal is to work with our community to develop and improve programs,” says Pat Cassidy, Dean of Applied Arts at Yukon College. “Associate programming increases our capacity to work with our partners”.
"The department of Justice is pleased to work with the College and the Northern Institute of Social Justice, to pilot a training program for frontline workers whose clients may include youth or adults with FASD," says Minister of Justice Marian C. Horne. "The need for such training was raised during the Access to Justice Conference held in Whitehorse."
The training modules are being offered throughout spring 2010, following which the pilot will be reviewed to determine next steps for future delivery.
Ann Bowen
Coordinator, College Relations
Yukon College
867 668 8786
www.yukoncollege.yk.ca