AWH4T Family and Natural Supports Training

Family and Natural Supports (FNS) are a key component of homelessness prevention, particularly in the lives of young people. As a framework that focuses on early interventions in the prevention of youth homelessness, as opposed to emergency service provision, FNS builds on foundational research, data, and practice that explores the role of familial conflict and meaningful adult relationships for young people experiencing homelessness.

This interactive two-day training, taking place on March 30th-31st, will be led by Heidi Walter, A Way Home Canada's Program Design and Training Consultant. With over two decades of commitment to addressing youth homelessness, she brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her role. Her work extends beyond borders, amplifying the voices of young people and driving positive change within the sector with the hope to end and prevent youth homelessness.

To maximize the reach of this important training, while maintaining fellowship and intentionality, we request that only two individuals per agency register. If you register but can no longer attend, please de-register so another participant can enroll.

In advance of the training, all participants will be sent A Way Home Canada's model guide to review, and there will be a virtual pretraining discussion on February 24th at 9am for participants to ask initial questions.

Before joining A Way Home Canada, Heidi supported the work at the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness as a trainer, where she not only conducted training but also conducted fidelity reviews, ensuring program quality and effectiveness. Her earlier tenure at the Boys and Girls Club of Calgary, managing Housing First for Youth programs for seventeen years, showcases her long-standing commitment to providing essential services and support to vulnerable youth.

Within A Way Home Canada, Heidi offers support within the Making the Shift Youth Homelessness Demonstration Lab, where she provides coaching and training to community partners across Canada, and internationally. Through her hands-on approach, she empowers others to deliver effective person-centered care, fostering a community dedicated to improving the lives of young people and practitioners alike.

Heidi’s passion for her work is evident, dedicating time to sharing knowledge, providing support, and fostering a sense of community within the youth homelessness sector, with the ultimate goal of working towards a future where all youth have access to the support, opportunities and permanent connections they need to thrive.

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Host or Publisher The Center for Housing Solutions, Inc.