Caregivers for The John Howard Society North Island help support youth ages 14 to 19 in navigating the turbulent years of adolescence, addressing adversity in family dynamics, substance misuse, and poverty. Looking beyond stereotypes, caregivers bridge barriers and provide caring homes to youth in need, offering teens a chance to rebuild, reconnect, and create a foundation for a fulfilling future.
Two John Howard caregivers reflect on the joys and challenges of being caregivers for youth who are facing challenges in their lives.
Meleny Thomas’ story:
“I was 19 when I had my son, and it definitely saved me. I wanted to lead by example and show him that, no matter what you’ve been through—whether it be alcoholism, drug use, or addiction—you can come out on the other side. That’s the message I’ve shared for the last eight years with the youth who have lived in my carehome,” says Thomas.
Having grown up with adoptive parents, she recalls a period in her early adulthood when she faced an identity crisis due to the absence of her biological parents.
“Growing up, I learned to overcome abandonment issues that I didn’t realize I had until years later. While I grew up in a great adoptive family, they were strict, and I think that led to my rebellious side. In my late teens and early twenties, I worked in the bar scene, which led to bad influences and vices. I remember waking up in my late twenties and realizing I wanted more from life.”
Thomas followed her motto, ‘make a choice to make a change,’ and moved to the Yukon from Nanaimo. From there, she got her life back on track. Thomas has spent the last eight years using her own life lessons to help pass wisdom on to the next generation of youth.
Lynda Baechler’s story:
Lynda Baechler has been a John Howard caregiver since 2013, and over the past 11 years, she has learned patience, empathy, and the importance of not subscribing to stereotypes.
“That mindset has taken me far in life; every youth teaches you something new. Every child deserves a home and someone who cares enough to allow them time to make changes,” says Baechler.
Approaching her 70s, Baechler remains passionate about caregiving. She believes in breaking barriers through simple acts of kindness, such as offering a smile and a hello, whether to youth who are struggling or strangers on the street. Baechler understands the transformative power of compassion and the importance of creating a supportive environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
“Sometimes their clothing choices will be very different, or they might have an attitude; some of them let you into their lives more easily than others. What I say is when you smile and say hello first, the doors will open.”
The John Howard Society of North Island is currently seeking contracted family caregivers in Campbell River and the Comox Valley. Part and full-time options are available. Caregivers receive 24-hour support, ongoing training, and a monthly retainer of $90 per day plus $70 for each day a youth resides in the home.
To learn more about this opportunity, contact Diane Jensen or Sadie Ostler: 250-286-0222 or diane.jensen@jhsni.bc.ca or sadie.ostler@jhsni.bc.ca. Follow The John Howard Society of North Island on Facebook or visit www.jhsni.bc.ca.