DYS and UB to Run Wilderness Retreats for Community Clean-Up Youth

And while providing opportunities for manual labor as a means of generating an honest income, the Department of Youth Services says it also cares about the psychosocial well-being of the men. That is why they are planning a retreat in the Mountain Pine Ridge, to facilitate wellness and wilderness trainings for those involved in the community clean up initiative. It is in collaboration with the University of Belize

Kevin Cadle

Kevin Cadle, Acting Director, DYS

“These guys will be going to Mountain Pine Ridge next week Monday to do the “Heal Up with Roots” Wellness and Wilderness training. And, that training will encompass some of these very same people working with them in small groups and building their capacity through therapeutic process. The Department of Youth Services along with the University of Belize had teamed up. So, that component, the grass roots component of heal up is being done by the University of Belize, headed by Mr. Fermin Olivera. The multi-sectoral approach is a four prong approach to dealing with crime and violence and to look at how we can help to mitigate the situation of crime and violence in our community. And, one of the main areas is to look for job opportunities, yes, that is a part of it. But, the psychosocial aspect of it is very important, to be able to ensure that these guys are mentally stable and well, to be able to not only work but to be productive citizens in our society.”