In the heart of Greater Victoria, British Columbia, Jennifer Mortimer has dedicated her energy to making a difference for youth and homelessness through her employment with Beacon Community Services. With a passion for fostering hope and connection, she plays a crucial yet significant role in transforming the lives of vulnerable young people who come to her attention. She has been attending to this important outcome oriented work since 1995. Her career with Beacon began as a Street Outreach Worker on the Saanich Peninsula in response to identified youth at risk needs found within the community. In time the services grew to include both a larger catchment area, as well as opportunity to address the greater needs of youth including homelessness.
The Call to Action
Jennifer’s journey into youth homelessness prevention began with a simple yet profound belief: “Hope is so important in creating change for youth. If you can no longer dream it, it is virtually impossible to reach it.” This conviction drives her daily interactions with young people today as it has historically. Reminding youth their dreams are valid and achievable, offers opportunity for time with engagement and a belief in a tomorrow and for those living in the moment, it also gives rise to what might be possible and worth hanging in for. She validates this truth through her ability to see youth as individuals with unique needs, further reverberating a message to the youth, that they are visible, heard and valued. At Beacon, she is dedicated to the creation of safe spaces where youth can feel secure and supported, allowing them to express themselves and envision a brighter future.
Through all the programming Jennifer leads, she’s witnessed firsthand the impact of providing support to young people. ‘Whether it be through our housing or prevention programs, by allowing youth to stay within their peer group, they support each other” she explains “this peer-centric approach makes it less intimidating for youth to seek help, fostering a sense of belonging and community.”
Building Connections
Jennifer believes that connection are at the core of effective support. “Being a connection or link for so many youth over the years has been a great gift in my life,” she shares. Her relational approach involves inviting youth into a non-judgmental space where they can share their experiences at their own pace. “I invite them without a requirement that they share their stories. I encourage them to dream of a different life and share in their grief,” she explains.
This empathetic understanding and approach allows Jennifer to build trust with the young people she supports, making them feel seen and valued. She celebrates their resilience and strength, often expressing awe at their ability to survive amidst adversity.
Navigating Challenges
Despite her unwavering commitment, Jennifer acknowledges the significant challenges faced in the quest to prevent youth homelessness. “Trauma, and its multi-layering plays a huge role. How do you explore the most difficult parts of your life if you have no safe space?” she asks. Factors such as poverty, lack of community connections, limited family knowing, discrimination, and mental health issues further complicate the landscape for youth and their vulnerability.
Jennifer often encounters misconceptions about youth homelessness, particularly the belief that it is a choice. She challenges this notion, stating, “If where the youth are currently living is so awful that the streets are their choice, I don’t see this as a choice.” By addressing these misconceptions, she aims to foster a greater understanding of the complexities surrounding youth and their homelessness.
Celebrating Successes
Throughout her career, Jennifer has been privileged to witness many success stories. “I see success everywhere,” she reflects. From young people who once accessed the shelter now thriving in stable jobs to those who have overcome substance use issues and found supportive housing, these stories highlight the transformative impact of Beacon’s work.
Jennifer emphasizes that success is defined by the youth themselves. “Are they happy, healthy, and living the life they choose? For so many, the answer is yes!” She is grateful for the role she has played in helping young people navigate their journeys toward stability and fulfillment and is ever honored that many of them stay in touch as they find their way in the world.
Jennifer is not only dedicated to youth and their success but also to building partnerships and collaboration in aid of stabilizing youth and their situation for the long term. She is confidential and respectful to her endeavors while be responsive and timely.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Jennifer envisions a future where Beacon Community Services continues to expand its programming to meet the diverse needs of unhoused youth. “I would like to see Beacon grow our programming to ensure that the right housing options are available to all youth who are unhoused,” she states. This includes emergency shelters, transitional housing, supportive housing, and affordable market options tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
Reaching Out for Support
For those who may need support or know someone who does, Jennifer encourages reaching out to Beacon Community Services. “If you or someone you know needs support, reach out! Our programming is listed on our website at www.beaconcs.ca,” she urges.
Jennifer’s story is one of hope, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the cause of youth homelessness prevention. As she continues her work at Beacon Community Services, she remains a beacon of light for young people in Victoria, assisting them find their way to a brighter future.
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