From Client to Youth Peer Support Worker: Alex’s Story

With the unconditional support of Foundry Abbotsford, Alex was able to navigate through difficult times during her youth and find a place of belonging. Today, as a youth peer support worker at the very same Foundry centre, Alex is determined to provide youth with the same level of individual care and compassion that she had received.

Foundry offers services to youth aged 12-24 including mental health and substance use support, drop-in counselling, physical and sexual healthcare, youth and family peer support and social services.

Alex first heard of Foundry when she was 15 after receiving a referral from her counsellor. Struggling under the weight of severe bullying at school, Alex needed a safe and secure place to feel connected with others.

Within Foundry’s nurturing environment, Alex discovered a plethora of services that worked for her. From accessing the physical health clinic to participating in group outings and workshops, each resource played a vital role in her path to healing.

“I continued accessing supports from Foundry over the next few years because it was a very comfortable space.”

At Foundry, she found a sense of independence and control over her mental and physical health as she was assured confidentiality by the health clinic staff. Alex also enjoyed the relatable and approachable nature of the practitioners as they worked with her to achieve the best outcome.

“It was more like a conversation, instead of feeling like they’re the older one in the room and they know better,” recalls Alex.

During her four years as a client she worked with Nicole Clarke, a youth and family engagement worker. Nicole’s continuous support, even after she ceased using the services, left a lasting impact on Alex.

“It was really nice to know that there was someone outside of my family that genuinely cared and wanted me to get better.”

Nicole kept in contact with Alex and would periodically text her to tell her about upcoming group activities that she may be interested in.

“There was never any cut off from connection. I was always welcome when I was ready,” said Alex.

This non-intrusive communication model allowed Alex to heal at her own pace without the pressure of immediate responses, alleviating the anxiety that often accompanies seeking help.

“You could take two weeks to respond or three years to respond to a text and no one’s going to be angry with you. I know when I was going through my depression, I was just avoiding my phone. But Nicole made me feel like the Foundry’s doors were always open,” said Alex.

Alex’s time as a Foundry client inspired her to pursue a dream she held close to her heart—a career in psychology with a focus on youth support. After a youth support training program with Fraser Health, Alex is proud to have landed her dream role as a youth peer support worker at Foundry. Her personal experience as a client gives her unique insight and empathy, allowing her to relate to her clients on a deeper level.

“Our approach to peer support is based on the idea that those who have experienced adversity can provide support and mentorship to others facing similar situations, encouraging them to continue their wellness journey,” said Elizabeth Shields, Manager at Foundry Abbotsford.

Foundry Abbotsford recently celebrated its 5th anniversary with an open house which was attended by community partners as well as youth and their families.

“It’s amazing to see the level of support we receive from the community in providing youth with equitable access to integrated health and social services,” said Elizabeth.

Foundry’s Integrated Youth Services model gives staff the flexibility to connect with youth, allowing them to truly meet youth where they are. This involves active listening, providing emotional support, offering advocacy and helping youth identify and connect to services and supports.

“The services provided by Foundry are helpful to anyone and everyone because there’s so many different things youth can access. It’s always an open door,” touts Alex.

Determined to pay forward the life-changing impact she experienced firsthand, Alex is proud to be a youth peer support worker for the very Foundry that provided her with unwavering support and a sense of belonging all those years ago.

“No one ever made me feel bad for what I was going through or made me feel like I was on my own. I was always welcomed, and I want to provide the same experience that I got for anyone who walks in – just positivity.”