Frequently Asked Questions

What is RNJ Youth Services?
Who do you serve?

We provide services to children and youth ages 7–24, and in Lanark County, to adults as well. Our programs support individuals from diverse backgrounds who may be experiencing mental health, substance use, educational, or justice-related challenges, or who require additional community supports.
Where do you operate?

RNJ Youth Services operates throughout the entire Lanark, Leeds & Grenville region. We provide in-person and community-based programs across urban, small-town, and rural communities. Our staff willingly travel throughout the region — including rural and remote areas — to ensure youth and families have equitable access to supports, regardless of where they live.
What kind of programs do you offer for youth?

We offer a range of programs that help youth get connected to services, avoid criminal charges or reduce involvement with the justice system while addressing underlying issues like substance use, mental health challenges, and decision-making skills.

We also provide programming to help youth remain engaged in education, transition to adult services, and participate in educational presentations on topics including (but not limited to) hate, bullying, online safety, and healthy relationships.
How can youth access RNJ programs?
Are there any costs to participate?
Do you provide support for families?

Yes. RNJ Youth Services values an entire-family approach when supporting youth. We work not only with the young person, but also alongside parents and guardians to strengthen the overall support system.

When needed, we provide supportive referrals for parents/guardians and other siblings to appropriate community resources and services. Our goal is to ensure the whole family has access to the guidance and supports necessary to promote stability, well-being, and positive outcomes for youth.
Can youth participate in more than one program?
If the need continues to grow, can RNJ expand?

Yes. RNJ Youth Services is committed to responding to the evolving needs of youth across Lanark, Leeds & Grenville. As demand increases, we continually assess community needs, staffing capacity, partnerships, and available funding. Where funding and identified community needs permit, we will responsibly expand programs and outreach to ensure youth continue to receive timely, high-quality support throughout the region.
Is there any over or underrepresentation in the current group served by RNJ?

Because referrals come from schools, families, community agencies, and the justice system, the youth we serve often reflect those already experiencing significant challenges. RNJ regularly reviews service data to ensure equitable access across Lanark, Leeds & Grenville and works to reduce barriers for underserved youth to access our programs.
How are RNJ Youth Services programs different from other offered in the community?
RNJ programs focus on early intervention, prevention, and diversion from the justice system while addressing root causes such as mental health challenges, substance use, and decision-making skills.

Our services are:

Individualized to each youth’s needs

Collaborative with families, schools, and community partners

Focused on long-term positive outcomes

Provided at no cost to youth and families

We emphasize building skills, strengthening supports, and connecting youth to essential services in the community.
How are the programs at RNJ Youth Services funded?
Where can I find a list of the programs offered and how many youth are served?

Frequently Asked Questions

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