What is V.A.C.A.P.?
This innovative program exposes at-risk Muslim youth to a variety of approaches to assist them in addressing potentially violent, angry or conflict-laden situations in their lives. Working in small-group workshops, youth will be taught to recognize volatile situations that may lead to violence and possible conflict with the law.
VACAP integrates spiritual and social aspects of care to enable young people to commit to leading a non-violent lifestyle with their peers, families and community.
Who Can Apply?
Muslim youth aged 16 to 25 years of age living in the Greater Toronto Area are eligible for this program at no cost.
The program is best suited for at-risk youth who, as a result of anger and violence, have a history of conflict with the law, or are involved with the criminal justice system or educational disciplinary system. The program is open to youth under supervision orders in the community, e.g. Children’s Aid Society, Probation, Parole, etc.
V.A.C.A.P. Team
The program team is comprised of a Coordinator and trained volunteers from the community sector. The program Coordinator is the main facilitator for the workshops.
Program Duration
The program will host weekend workshops from March 2006 to May 2006. The workshops will take place at various locations both in and outside the Greater Toronto Area.
How Can I Apply?
Professional Referrals
Youth can be referred by professionals within the criminal justice system,
social workers, teachers, police, imams, concerned community members, or
any other trained professionals involved in the care of youth. Professionals
will contact VACAP on behalf of the youth. The VACAP team will set up a
time to meet and assess the youth’s eligibility for the workshops.
Self-Referrals
Youth who think they might benefit from participation in VACAP can contact
the program directly or visit the website. Youth will be required to fill
out an application form to assess their eligibility for the program. The
program team will assist youth to complete the application form.
After registration in the course is complete, youth will be sent a package which includes a release of information form, intake form, and a list of expectations for the workshops.