For the last quarter of a century MYR has been in the business of changing lives for the better and in some cases, of saving lives.  Its unwavering focus has been to help young people succeed. 

As MYR enters into its 25^th year of operation I want to reflect on the measure of the agency’s impact on New Brunswick:

·         As an employer MYR has provided: meaningful employment, training to the province, hundreds of job placements for college and university programs, careers in Youth Care for some, and foundational work experiences for others who have proceeded on to work in other professions offering community service.

·         MYR contributes to public education and awareness of issues related to the at-risk youth with events such as: Raising the Roof, Homeless Hotel, Youth Inclusiveness workshop, and the many professional speakers and trainers brought in by the Resource Centre since the early 1990’s.

·         MYR’s reach extends beyond Greater Moncton through providing services to youth from around the province, by its training events, and its leadership role within the New Brunswick Association of Youth Residential Services Inc.

·         MYR operates a total of 18 programs in the province with a youth treatment centre currently under development that will make nineteen.  The agency’s continuum of services enables it to respond effectively to a wide range of community needs.

·         MYR can quote impressive statistics that underline its success with youth pointing to milestones such as: graduation, skills acquisition, reducing risk factors, gaining employment, and becoming more connected to society.

·         Anecdotal accounts number in the tens of thousands of how MYR has positively contributed to someone’s life.  This is sometimes as subtle as a kind word in a difficult time, to as dramatic as saving a life.

Without MYR I would hate to think of the lost opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our clients, staff, and volunteers.  Because of MYR the community is better equipped to manage specific challenges affecting many young people and their families.  The ripple effect MYR has had in the lives of so many over the years is considerable.  It has been a privilege for MYR to serve and act as a positive change agent in the lives of so many young New Brunswickers.  It is with strength, commitment, and passion that MYR looks forward to continued success in the coming 25 years.

Mel Kennah

Executive Director