by Cameron Domes
Who They Are
For nearly 30 years, The Open Doors has been a beacon of support for at-risk youth and young adults in the Camrose and Wetaskiwin areas, as well as rural central Alberta. They offer a range of crucial services, including programs and counseling, designed to help individuals get back on their feet. To mark International Youth Day on August 12, Camrose Energy proudly made a donation to The Open Doors’ youth programs through our Community Partner Program. Their work is pivotal in breaking the cycles of poverty and addiction, equipping these young people with the tools and hope they need to succeed.
Why Their Work Matters
Many of the youth served by The Open Doors have missed out on essential life skills due to their challenging circumstances. Basic skills such as budgeting and finding housing can be out of reach. The Open Doors addresses these gaps with educational programs, counseling, harm reduction, and suicide prevention services. Their dedicated staff works tirelessly to bridge the gaps left by the broader system, offering support where few other resources are available.
One of the primary challenges The Open Doors faces is the scarcity of resources. With a small team operating on a tight budget, they provide invaluable support to hundreds across Alberta. Despite these challenges, the commitment and compassion of their team shine through. As one staff member put it, “the best tool in [our] tool belt is just being there to help someone.”
The Importance of Personalized Care
Meeting clients where they are is central to The Open Doors’ approach. They understand that everyone’s needs are unique and often complex. For instance, individuals struggling with housing and food insecurity may not initially prioritize addiction treatment. One success story shared by The Open Doors involved a client who, after several years of support, was ready to begin addiction treatment and reconnect with their children. This long and challenging process highlights the systemic barriers faced by those who fall through the cracks. The Open Doors works tirelessly to catch individuals before they reach that point, navigating the limited services and resources available.
Why Support Matters
Camrose Energy firmly believes in the importance of The Open Doors’ work. These issues are persistent and won’t resolve on their own. We deeply admire the dedication of The Open Doors’ team, which is why we have supported them through our Community Partners program for the past nine years. It’s crucial to remember that struggles aren’t confined to big cities—Camrose and its surrounding areas have their own challenges. The Open Doors is there to offer hope and support to those who might otherwise remain unseen.
You can learn more about The Open Doors by visiting their website or downloading The Open Doors Info Sheet here.
