Dialog window

• Working together to promote the field, advocate for the profession, and educate the public about the unique role of CYCPs and their significance to young people in the province.
  • Creation of one-pager infographics that help us to inform the public about our unique work and the sectors under which we are employed. To see our one-pagers please click here.
• Connecting with community stakeholders and government agencies to push for safer working environments, challenge policies, funding cuts that impact how CYCPs deliver services to young people through research and public education and awareness
• Use of social media and celebratory dates and opportunities to highlight the amazing CYCPs in the field with online recognition and an awards ceremony at our Annual General Meeting

We advocate for young people and families through various strategies and initiatives that aim to promote their well-being, rights, and access to quality care and support through:

Policy Advocacy

• Engaging in advocacy efforts to influence government policies and regulations related to child and youth care, education, healthcare, and social services. We work to ensure that policies are responsive to the needs of young people and families, advocating for adequate funding and resources for programs and services.
  • The OACYC has participated in the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Service (MCCSS) roundtable and consultations pertaining to the recent amendments to the CYFSA which were implemented on July 1st. Please see the most recent updates here.

Education and Awareness

• The association raises awareness among the public, policymakers, and stakeholders about the challenges and needs of young people and families. This could involve hosting seminars, workshops, conferences, and educational events to disseminate information and promote understanding.

Collaboration and Partnerships

• The OACYC collaborates with other organizations, agencies, and institutions that work with or for young people and families. By forming partnerships, they can amplify their advocacy messages and share resources and expertise. We have recently partnered with the Ombudsman’s Office to provide education opportunities of the role of the office and how to best support young people in care in understanding their rights.

Connecting with Government Officials and Agencies

The Association met with over 20 MPP’s stakeholders, including MPP/Parliamentary Assistant Nolan Quinn at Queen’s Park, Green Party Leader Mike Schriener and the Ombudsman’s office, to develop partnerships and seek support for their advocacy goals

Social Media Awareness

Reignite-Inform–Advocate Plan: The committee is currently creating a detailed vision presented by former board/executive/committee members. This plan focused on the importance of simultaneously addressing advocacy and legislation, aiming to reignite efforts, inform members, and advocate for the CYC profession.

• In 2022, the Association engaged in a successful digital advocacy letter campaign that garnered over 10,000 views,resulting in thousands of letters being sent to MPP’s across the province. This led us to dozens of meetings with MPP’s where we shared the importance of our profession and delivering high quality care to young people and their families in Ontario

Public Safety and Cost Savings Research

• The Association is in the beginning stages of researching public safety issues and the potential cost savings of having regulated Child and Youth Care professionals. This research aims to provide an informed rationale for our advocacy efforts.