This document summarizes the Native Youth & Justice Services program provided by the Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child & Family Services. The program aims to address the overrepresentation of Aboriginal youth in the justice system by providing culturally-based supports and services. Services are individualized and community-based, including access to cultural activities and teachings from Elders. They also provide advocacy, resources, and wellness supports informed by traditional teachings like the Seven Grandfather Teachings and Medicine Wheel. The program is available to First Nations youth between 12-17 who have been found guilty and are on probation or in custody in the described geographic areas.

1. Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag
Child & Family Services
Native Youth & Justice Services Program
(Looking after children)

2. Did you know:
Aboriginal youth are over-represented in the justice system.
“A One Day Snapshot of Aboriginal Youth In Custody Across
Canada” A document complied by the Dept. of Justice (2001)
identified 24% of the youth in custody in the province of Ontario
were Aboriginal. Research suggests poverty, substance abuse,
sexual exploitation, lack of education and disconnection from
identity, culture and community were contributing factors.

3. Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag
Child & Family Services

4. DBCFS Vision
DBCFS vision has always been to reclaim their inherent right
to protect and care for their youth. While ensuring the safety
and well-being of the youth. Culturally appropriate, community
oriented and case specific services are provided to families so
they can begin to reconnect and rebuild their lives in order to
restore the family unit. Since inception, our project has taken
positive proactive steps to move forward in developing a new
model of service delivery for child and family services.

5. Native Youth & Justice Services
Accessing Services:
Our supports and services are
culturally based to address
the mental, spiritual, physical
And emotional needs of
Aboriginal/First Nation youth
living on or off reserve.

6. DBCFS
Native Youth & Justice Services
Services will be:
• Culturally Based
• Individualized
• Community Based
Types of services:
- Introduction and access to ceremonial and cultural activities and
events.
- Guidance & Teachings with Elders and/or Traditional People.
- Support, Advocacy, Resources & Transportation Assistance as
needed to maintain services.
- Health & Wellness Supports

7. Zaagidwin
Mnaadendmowin
Nbwaakaawin
Dbaadendizwin
Gwekwaadziwin
Debwewin
Aakdehewin
The Seven Grandfather Teachings

8. The Medicine Wheel
The Medicine Wheel teachings provide guidance for wellness &
balance in our lives, Spiritually, Emotionally, Mentally & Physically.
They teach us about:
• Culture
• Identity
• Pride
• Confidence
• Empowerment
• Success
• Relationships
• Responsibility
• Anger

9. The Probation Officer
• The Probation Officer and/or the facility
where the youth is currently living are
responsible for contacting our office.
• If you are a First Nation/Aboriginal youth
and you would like to access our services,
please let your probation officer know.

10. Guidelines for Youth
 Must be First Nation/Aboriginal.
 Must be between the ages of 12-17 at the time of the offence.
 Must be living within the
• Region of Durham
• Counties of Peterborough, Haliburton,
Northumberland and Kawartha Lakes or the.
• First Nations of Curve Lake, Scugog Island, Alderville
and Hiawatha
 Must have been found guilty and are on probation,
conditional supervision, community supervision or in
custody/detention and preparing for discharge.