Imagine a place where every child and youth in Lanark County has access to the mental health support they need to heal, grow, and thrive. This place exists, and it’s called Open Doors for Lanark Children and Youth (ODLCY).
Since 1997, ODLCY has been the sole publicly funded children and youth mental health organization serving Lanark County. Accredited by the Canadian Centre for Accreditation, ODLCY is dedicated to delivering mental health services to children and youth from birth to age 18. Our mission is to ensure that every child and youth has the resilience and resources to overcome challenges and build a brighter future.
Our Approach
At ODLCY, we believe in a holistic approach to mental health. Our services are client-centred, trauma-informed, and culturally relevant. We acknowledge the individual, familial, and social resources that each child or youth resides in, ensuring that our support is tailored to their unique needs.
Our clinicians are skilled in trauma-specific, attachment-based treatment and trauma-informed care. They employ evidence-informed treatment approaches and measurement-based care practices to resolve presenting problems and foster resilience in children and youth.
Our Impact
Over the years, ODLCY has touched countless lives. Through our clinical processes, we help children and youth build resilience and access the resources they need to heal and thrive in their lives and relationships. Our programs, including Quick Crisis Response, Single Session and Brief Short-term Therapy, Counselling, In-home Support and Intensive Family Resource Support, Groups for Children, Youth and Parent/Caregivers Youth in Transition (up to age 24) and newer initiatives the Lanark Child and Youth Advocacy Centre and the Child Victim Witness Program. are delivered by a dedicated team of 20 clinical staff servicing all of Lanark county via community outreach and our three locations: Perth, Smiths Falls, and Carleton Place.
The Challenge
Despite our unwavering commitment, ODLCY faces significant challenges. Chronic underfunding by the Ministries has eroded our capacity to address the needs of children and youth. Our ability to serve has diminished by approximately 25% since our inception. Additionally, serving rural and remote areas presents unique service issues with the current funding.
Your Support
We need your help to continue our vital work. Your donation can make a profound difference in the lives of children and youth in Lanark County. By supporting ODLCY, you are investing in the future of our community, ensuring that every child and youth has access to the mental health services they need to thrive.
Join Us
Join us in making a lasting impact. Together, we can ensure that every child and youth in Lanark County has the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive. Your generosity can help us overcome funding challenges and expand our reach to serve even more children and youth in need.
Donate today and be a part of the change. Together, we can open doors to a brighter future for Lanark’s children and you