REACH Child and Youth Development Foundation

ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION:

Since 1959, REACH Child and Youth Development Society has served children with support needs and their families in Delta, Surrey, White Rock, and Langley, B.C. REACH is dedicated to building inclusive, accessible, supportive societies where all individuals flourish.

We offer a variety of programs and services designed to meet the needs of children birth through 25, to ensure their optimum growth and development. Whenever possible, children and youth are included in the goal-setting process. This approach empowers them and their families to make informed decisions that shape their futures, while highlighting strengths, honoring diversity and individuality, and enhancing their quality of life. By actively engaging in their own services, children and families build agency, fostering lifelong self-determination.

"What makes your organization’s work important in Surrey and area?"

Children with autism and other support needs continue to face exclusion from early learning environments due to challenges with communication, emotional regulation, and toileting. When these needs are unmet, children are often unable to participate fully in kindergarten and childcare programs, creating long-term barriers for families. Early intervention during the preschool years is critical, as it takes advantage of brain plasticity and has been shown to improve communication, social skills, independence, and long-term educational outcomes, while reducing family stress.

"What programs or services do you currently offer?"

Program and Description Aboriginal Supported Child Development, Supported Child Development: Provides support to children in childcare settings Delta Connex: Support for FASD with key workers Infant Development Program: Assessment and support of development Positive Behaviour Support, Positive Connections: Parenting strategy classes Down Syndrome Parent Support Group, Peer-to-Peer support Groups: For parents to gather, learn, and support each other Early Intervention Therapies: Occupational, physical, and speech therapists Fortis Sibshops: For siblings to gather, learn, and support each other Multi-elemental Parenting Wellness Education Resources: Navigation support Group Respite, Individual Respite, Overnight Respite: For children and parents to have time apart REACH Autism program: Support for those aged 1-3 to ensure school success REACH Developmental Preschools: Inclusive care with access to additional supports Counselling: Individualized clinical counselling with a disability expertise

"Who benefits from your work?"

Those living with a disability, and/or support needs, and their families, and those who connect with them in the community.