Youth at Risk Development Program (YARD)
The Youth at Risk Development (YARD) Program is a community-based, early intervention program supporting youth aged 10 to 17 that are currently at risk, affiliated with a gang, or involved in gang activity. YARD is delivered in partnership with the Calgary Police Service, The City of Calgary – Calgary Neighbourhoods, and Alberta Health Services.
The five YARD teams, which include an Indigenous-focused team, consist of a police officer and a registered social worker who work closely with the youth client, their family, school administrators, and community agencies. Additionally, YARD provides a clinician through Alberta Health Services for clients with acute mental health needs. YARD develops an individualized case plan for each client, based on their circumstances, and assists them in avoiding or leaving the gang lifestyle.
The program focuses on the following areas: improving interpersonal relationships, improving mental health and wellness, increased life skills and increased prosocial activities. Participation in the program is voluntary.
The following diagram outlines the program outcomes for YARD:
YARD Program Outcomes
I’m in a gang and want out. How can you help me?
The Calgary Police Service wants to help people get out of gangs. If you need help or if you know someone who does, contact our Gang Help Line at 403-428-8191. You can also talk to your school counsellor.
Youth involved in gangs can also talk to a counsellor confidentially 24/7 by calling the Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868.
Reporting gang activity
If you're involved in an emergency situation, contact 9-1-1. Otherwise, contact the non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.
If you'd like to refer someone to the YARD Program, fill out the Youth at Risk Development referral form. Provide as much detail as possible to ensure a full understanding of the client’s situation. Referrals are triaged monthly, and you will be notified if your client has been accepted into the YARD Program or another program to serve your client’s needs.
More information
For further information, you can email the YARD Program Team at YARD@calgarypolice.ca or call 403-428-8409.