At Harbor House, we believe that domestic abuse does not define who you and your children are.
Children and teens can experience emotional, physical, psychological, sexual, and verbal mistreatment – all of which result in crisis situations they don’t understand. The Harbor House Youth Program helps young people constructively express their thoughts and feelings, lessen the effects of trauma, strengthen the bond with their protective parent, and end the generational cycle of abuse.
Our Youth Program focuses on providing programming that helps equip parents, children, and teens with the skills to;
- support healing
- express emotions and feelings in a healthy way
- building self-confidence
- learn coping skills
- grow socially
- build healthy relationships
- practice safety
We can assist with custody and placement concerns. We can accompany parents and children to court proceedings. We can collaborate with a number of local partnering agencies such as; schools, Children's Protective Services, and other community organizations to provide resources for families. We also place a priority on planning fun activities to make support groups, and shelter stays more comfortable for children and teens - to let them be kids.
Our Youth Advocates, Jennie and Jennifer shine a light on some of the programs and services they can offer youth.
"We found comfort and relief in the fact that we had someone who was on our side – we had our very own advocate. During our meetings, we would not only cry, but we would encounter moments of laughter too. We would learn how to survive the abuse – and that is exactly what we did.
The things I have witnessed and endured will forever be a part of my history, however, they no longer define me or my future – a huge part in thanks to my Children and Youth Advocate and the services provided to me by Harbor House Children and Youth Program.”
Read this child's full story, here.
Meet our Youth Advocates, Jennie and Jennifer!
Family-Focused Programming
We believe that you, the protective parent, are the best advocate for your child. While our Youth Advocates have a great deal of knowledge, experience, and expertise from working with hundreds of young people annually, you must determine the best course of action for your child. Our role is to ensure that you fully understand the impact of domestic abuse on yourself and your child so that you can make the best decisions for your family’s future.
One-on-One with an Advocate
One-on-one meetings offer your child a safe, comfortable, judgment-free environment in which to share their experiences.
Safety Planning
Safety planning helps your child deal with the fear of having lived with and possibly having to spend time with their abusive parent.
Legal Advocacy
The Youth Program offers a range of services to help protective parents navigate the legal system.
Support Group
We offer a number of weekly youth support groups that give young people the opportunity to gain tools to express their thoughts and feelings in a healthy way.
Fun Activities
Our Youth Program sets a priority on planning fun, engaging activities throughout the year to help shift your child’s focus away from the trauma they’ve experienced so they can get back to the business of being a kid.