Boost Child & Youth Advocacy Centre (Boost CYAC) was first established in 1981 by Paul Godfrey (then Chairman of Metropolitan Toronto), as The Metropolitan Toronto Chairman's Special Committee on Child Sexual Abuse. We later became an organization under the name, The Special Committee on Child Abuse. In 1997, the Special Committee was renamed Toronto Child Abuse Centre and expanded its mandate to address all forms of child abuse. Ten years later, the agency was renamed Boost Child Abuse Prevention & Intervention®.
In 2013, we adopted the Child & Youth Advocacy Centre model, bringing together advocacy services, mental health supports, law enforcement, child protection, and medical professionals, under one roof, delivering a coordinated and child-friendly response. This innovative model prioritizes the child and has vastly improved the way families access services after experiencing abuse. Boost CYAC offers a wide range of wraparound supports to children, youth & their families as they navigate a challenging time in their lives. Programs are flexible, holistic & include a variety of supports including mental health support, advocacy, prevention, consultation, court support.
Research has shown that Boost CYAC's work has led to improved mental health outcomes around anxiety, depression, anger and interpersonal strengths, allowing young people to have the opportunity to achieve success in education, employment and social outcomes.
Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging
Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging
Boost CYAC is committed to providing a trauma-informed environment where everyone, especially the smallest among us, is valued and respected. We are dedicated to fostering an environment of equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging; striving to create a culture that embraces differences, fosters cultural safety, and works towards reducing systemic and ongoing barriers for clients, communities and staff.
Vision
Boost CYAC envisions a world where every child is safe, valued and can thrive.
Mission
Boost CYAC exists to protect, support, and empower children affected by abuse.
Bring together
We unite clients, communities, and team members. Because connection makes us all stronger.
Responsive
We proactively address the needs of our clients, community, and staff. Because acting inspires confidence.
Advocate
We stand up for children’s needs across systems and throughout their journey. Because we are passionate about advancing our purpose.
Value
We champion each other and our clients. Because building each other up elevates us all.
Equity
We strive to advance equity for all clients, communities, and staff. Because meaningful progress starts with intentional action.