This project will play a crucial role in preventing youth violence through the development of community education, training to address bullying in public spaces and throughout the community and a pilot project with Rocky View high schools to provide support for vulnerable youth.
With a third of Airdrie's population under the age of 20, this will contribute to making Airdrie an even safer, more welcoming and inclusive city for families.
The two project initiatives are focused on youth aged 11 - 18 but youth outside of that age range will also benefit from the outcomes.
View the Building Safer Communities Fund Project Overview (PDF)
The PBIS Community Collaborative seeks to enhance the capacity of youth-serving organizations in Airdrie and municipal departments that engage with youth to implement Positive Behavioural Interventions and Supports (PBIS) effectively. The initiative aims to promote consistent positive behavioural expectations for all youth, foster collaboration among service providers, and create a unified approach to supporting youth development. Through training, capacity building, and enhanced coordination, the initiative aspires to establish a citywide culture of positive reinforcement and shared accountability for youth outcomes.
Positive Directions is a youth resilience program designed to prevent and address bullying, violence, and gang involvement among youth aged 13-18 in Airdrie. The program utilizes a holistic, evidence-based approach to reduce vulnerabilities and strengthen protective factors to guide youth towards positive choices. Through mentorship, skill-building, and community collaboration, Positive Directions empowers youth to develop resilience, build healthy relationships, and actively engage in their community.