9 September 2003

CANADIAN FORCES NATIONAL YOUTH MODEL CONNECTING YOUTH STRATEGY

References: A. National Youth Programs and Services Model, Information Kit and Video, dated 19 March 2003 B. Communiqué: National Defence Online (NDOL) Provides Funding for the "Connecting Youth" Component of the CF Youth Programs and Services Model, dated 6 May 2003

1. In March 2003, a kit folder containing the Canadian Forces (CF) National Youth Model was distributed (reference A). The kit folder included a description of the key strategies founding the Youth Model, as well as, specific implementation approaches to be realized by the end of 2003.

2. In May 2003, the Exec VP PSP announced that, through funding received from National Defence On-Line (NDOL), the implementation of the Youth Model would begin with the "Connecting Youth" component (reference B).

3. The "Connecting Youth" piece of the Youth Model focuses on ensuring appropriate and relevant resources are readily available for youth from a CF family, by supporting youth in achieving the following:

   1. embracing transitions;
   2. easing the stress of relocation;
   3. building and sustaining meaningful relationships; and
   4. developing a sense of belonging within the community.

4. "Connecting Youth" is a significant component of the Youth Model, one that is inherently connected to each of the core components, and directly influences the strategies, principles and outcomes of the Model. As such, the "Connecting Youth" implementation strategy will focus not only on popular 'connection' mediums, such as the current programs, services, resources and technologies, but also on the ideas, projected needs and potential innovations that will keep youth engaged and enabled.

5. In August 2003, the CFPSA Youth Project Team commenced the process of developing a "Connecting Youth" implementation plan. In accordance with NDOL funding requirements, the CFPSA began by engaging a consulting firm to assist with the process. Allan Joyner Productions (AJP), an Ottawa based consulting firm, will validate and facilitate the development of the "Connecting Youth" component, and associated implementation plan.

6. The "Connecting Youth" project will be divided into four distinct phases, beginning immediately and ending by late December 2003. The four phases are:

   1. Research Review: AJP will assess existing research on youth connectivity and undertake an analysis of current youth web sites to provide an accurate overview of the youth market and on-line usage patterns of Canadian youth.
   2. Visioning Workshops: AJP will facilitate four visioning exercises to include one-day regional workshops with MFRC and PSP staff and volunteers, and five one-day local workshops with youth from CF families. The regions will include the Maritimes, Quebec/ Ontario, the Prairies, and the Pacific regions; with four of the local youth workshops hosted at the same site as the regional staff workshops. The visioning line of questioning will be designed to obtain detailed and specific information on youth 'connection' needs, expectations and future considerations.
   3. Partnership Study: The partnership study will investigate and identify potential partners in the future delivery of connection strategies.
   4. Technical Study: AJP will investigate the technical and logistical.aspects that may affect a connecting youth strategy, such as staffing, technology, accessibility, resources, and maintenance requirements.

7. For more specific information on each of the project phases, including research findings and results, please consult www.cfpsa.com. Information updates will be posted regularly throughout the project.

8. In the next few weeks, AJP will forward subsequent communication, inviting PSP and MFRC staff to become involved in the visioning workshops. Once the locations have been confirmed, workshop details, including travel arrangements and participant expectations, will be promulgated.

9. Should you or your staff have any questions prior to this next update, please contact the undersigned or Anne-Marie Vaz, DMFS 8 at (613) 992-2328, or Laurie Ogilvie, NRYSM at (613) 995-7802.