Every day, staff at Ray of Hope’s Secure Custody facility bring calm strength and compassion to youth who are facing some of the hardest moments in their lives. They provide structure, encouragement, and a steady belief that change is possible. Meet Scott, Jordan, and Sam, three team members whose stories show what it means to invest in people, inspire hope, and walk alongside youth with care.

A Calling, Not Just a Job: Supporting Youth at Secure Custody

At Ray of Hope, we meet people in some of the most difficult seasons of their lives. In every one of our program areas, our staff walk alongside them with care, consistency, and compassion. Everyone is treated with dignity and respect. 

That’s especially true in our Secure Custody facility, where youth, ages 12 to 17, and occasionally up to age 20 are placed by the court for detention or custody. These youth have experienced trauma in their lives, and many suffer from issues of addiction and mental health.  They are still figuring out who they are and what kind of future they want. Our staff play a key role in helping them take their next steps forward. 

We recently spoke with three team members Scott, Jordan, and Sam, about how they came into this work and what continues to inspire them. 

Each of them began in an entry-level or temporary role, not fully expecting what was ahead. But what started as a job became a calling. 

Scott came to Secure Custody in 2017 with experience in security and group homes. Today, he works in the school program, helping youth build routines and develop confidence.

“I try to live in the moment with the youth,” he says. “Not focusing on the past but helping them build the tools they need for their future.”  – Scott

Jordan joined Ray of Hope after a presentation in her college program. She moved from relief staff to team lead in just a few years. “I wish more people would take a step back and look at what the youth have been through,” she says. “These are young people who have experienced a lot, and they need support, not judgment.” 

Sam began as a student placement in 2015 and now holds a leadership role. She speaks with quiet conviction about the long-term impact of a simple, consistent presence. “We don’t see the youth after they leave, but I know I can leave them with tokens of knowledge,” she says. “They’re still developing, still becoming who they’re meant to be.” 

Because we follow the Child and Youth Criminal Justice Act, when a youth leaves the program, staff can’t stay in touch. That’s why every moment counts. The work is emotionally demanding, but the impact is lasting. 

“We show up for each other so we can keep showing up for the youth. It’s meaningful work. And it’s work that changes lives. I can’t imagine any other career.”  – Sam

Christmas Market: Save the Date

Are you a crafter, woodworker, or artist and looking for ways to support your business and Ray of Hope?

Calling all vendors for the 

Lincoln Road Chapel Christmas Market

in support of Ray of Hope

Saturday, November 29
10 am 2pm 

If you are interested in setting up a booth, please fill out the registration form.

Marketplace Needs

You can help make life a little easier for people in our community who are struggling with food insecurity and other challenges. Thank you!

We have a special need for these items:

Hygiene items

Deodorant

Toothpaste

Toothbrushes

Feminine Hygiene Products

Shelf stable food items: 

Canned meat, pasta / stews

Canned fruit & veggies

Boxed milk

Cereal & oatmeal

School snacks

Baby food & formula

Items can be dropped off at the Ray of Hope Community Centre at 659 King Street East – entrance off of Stirling Lane – weekdays between 9 am and 8 pm or Saturdays between 11 am and 2pm. Ring the green doorbell if you arrive before we’re open.

For more information, please contact us at info@rayofhope.net.

We’re grateful for your support as we invest in people, inspire hope, and transform lives, 

Tonya Verburg, CEO

and the Ray of Hope team