The SideDoor

MISSION STATEMENT

We believe that the youth in our community are our most valuable treasures and they are made by God to possess inherent precious worth and dignity. We know that they face many challenges in this intense and often volatile time in their lives. We polish these gems by reaching out to them and:

-Providing physical, psychological, spiritual and emotional support for youth;

-Facilitating programs and activities that promote healthy youth and healthy families;

-Advocating and liaising with community agencies such as schools, churches, law
enforcement and citizens to ensure that the needs of youth are known, understood,
and respected;

-Working cooperatively with social agencies, both governmental and non-governmental, to identify and address the social needs of youth.

PRINCIPLES

We believe that SideDoor’s clients flourish in a safe environment that displays a welcoming, nonjudgmental, respectful, loving Christian atmosphere. Our thoughts and actions as we work together and with the community are guided by integrity, honesty and unconditional love. We are committed to developing a responsive, accountable organization that will sustain and support SideDoor for the future.

ORGANIZATIONAL HISTORY

The SideDoor was the vision of members of the Yellowknife Christian community, who recognized the need for an outreach to the youth of Yellowknife.  SideDoor opened on October 7, 1995, in the basement of the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, through the side door entrance. The center enjoyed almost instant success with a surprising number of young people calling the centre home

It was assessed by the SideDoor Board that SideDoor programs were growing exponentially year by year. In light of this growth the Board sought and acquired a new location, which would be suitable for the program vision that they had for SideDoor’s future.  Over $500,000 was raised through the help of the Federal and Municipal Government, a service club, and local businesses to transform a building located in the heart of Yellowknife.  With our new facility in place we are branching out our services to assist homeless youth and the school boards.