Support through “Special Friends”

I don’t know why I was always involved in fights. They just seemed to happen. I know that my mom and dad were as frustrated as I was with my behaviour, but I just couldn’t seem to control my violent urges. One of the best things to happen to me since connecting with Kinark is getting a Special Friend. I can talk to him about my problems. He’s a mentor and a friend. — Jake

Grace & Jake

After eight frustrating years of unsuccessfully seeking help for my son’s violent behaviour, we finally connected with Kinark Child and Family Services. Following initial support through the agency’s Family First program, and then some time on the waiting list, a case worker was able to coordinate services that respond to Jake specific needs, as well as those of the rest of the family. Kinark’s Special Friends program, where a volunteer acts as his mentor and provides encouragement — and fun — has been especially valuable in helping Jake. Special Friends has been crucial to Jake’s social development. He now does things he would not have done previously. His Special Friend helps support him in a way that no one else can. My husband and I have also found that connecting with other parents through Kinark programs has been very helpful. Being actively involved in the Parents Advisory Council and a Parent-to-Parent group has given us the knowledge and support we need to help our family pull through the tough times.

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