About YAK
YAK Youth Services is an established, award-winning, not-for-profit charity that has been operating in the Perth and District Region since 1996. YYS is deeply committed to promoting the well-being and positive development of local youth, serving as a vital support network while providing protective conditions.
YAK Youth Services currently operates the Perth Youth Centre and manages the Perth Community Services Hub, both of which are located at 1881 Rogers Rd.
Vision
YAK Youth Services (YYS) is responsive to the changing needs of our youth and our community.
Mission Statement
YYS is committed to promoting and facilitating youth attachment to society and community, increasing developmental opportunities for youth and promoting their well being, ameliorating risk-factors and providing protective conditions for youth “at risk” and promoting public awareness of youth issues.
Purpose
YYS is committed to promoting the empowerment, well-being, and collective interests of local youth in a responsive and continuously adaptive manner. YYS provides a variety of supports that enable youth to elevate their skills, explore new opportunities, develop positive relationships, and get more involved in the community. YYS assists local youth in pursuing developmental opportunities by supportively providing them with resources, information, training, and encouragement. YYS also serves to strengthen the voice of youth in our community and promote awareness of local youth issues.
Value Statement
In its pursuit to improve the quality of life through the causes it serves, YYS is guided by the highest moral and ethical standards.
Principles
- To operate with integrity, honesty, truthfulness and conscience.
- To safeguard the public trust.
- To demonstrate concern for the interest of those affected by its actions.
- Treat all people with dignity and respect.
- Value privacy and freedom of choice.
- Foster cultural diversity and equality.
- Adhere to the spirit and letter of applicable laws and regulations.
Goals
- To create a wide range of developmental opportunities for youth of Perth and District.
- To provide youth with skills and abilities to succeed in life.
- To provide a safe, supportive and fun environment for local youth.
- To establish a permanent “one-stop shop” facility for the youth in Perth.
- To increase youth “attachment” to the greater community.
- To provide opportunities for isolated youth to get involved in community activities.
- To reduce negative and risky behaviour.
- To provide mentoring and tutoring for youth.
- To provide support to youth in distress and act as a referral service to appropriate agencies.
- To promote public awareness of youth issues and needs.
Board
- John Reid, chair
- Stephanie Drummond, vice chair
- Paul Cockburn, treasurer
- Nathan O’Neill, secretary
- Jackie Hart
- Sarah Deme
Staff
Executive Director: Rachel Roth
Rachel was born and raised in Perth, Ontario, and has been a passionate leader in the not-for-profit charitable sector since 2006. With nearly two decades of experience, she is known for her strength in financial management, strategic planning, best practice implementation, team leadership, and building strong administrative systems that support long-term sustainability. Currently serving as our Executive Director, Rachel brings vision and dedication to our organization.
Before her current role, Rachel led Greenest City in Toronto, where she successfully guided the organization through Imagine Canada national accreditation, reinforced its charitable status, and expanded its impact through innovative partnerships. While in Toronto, she also contributed her expertise as a board member with West Toronto Community Legal Services.
Previously, Rachel was Executive Director of BYTE – Empowering Youth Society in the Yukon Territory, where she spearheaded youth-driven programs across rural and Indigenous communities. Her work in the Yukon extended beyond BYTE—she served as an Education Officer for Kluane First Nation, taught Grade 7, and ran a greenhouse-based employment program for the Town of Haines Junction and Champagne Aishihik First Nation. During this time, she also held national leadership roles as Co-Chair and National Director of the Canadian Youth Climate Coalition, part of the Climate Action Network.
Rachel has contributed to a wide range of causes through board service, including:
- Parkdale Neighbourhood Land Trust
- Earth Day Canada
- Small Change Fund
- UNESCO Youth Steering Committee
- Toronto Urban Growers
- Whitehorse Youth Coalition
- TakingItGlobal
- Canada Women’s Economic Council
- National Addiction Awareness
- Community Resources on Wheels
- Otty Lake Association
- Perth Children’s House
Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Social Science, along with studies in Outdoor Recreation, Parks, and Tourism at Lakehead University. She has completed four Master of Education in Administration and Leadership courses at the University of New Brunswick.
In addition to her professional achievements, Rachel is a certified Organic Master Gardener and finds joy in growing fruits, vegetables, and abundant flowers. Her deep connection to community and nature continues to shape her approach to leadership and life.
Support Staff: Allison Graham
Allison Graham was born and raised near Perth. After graduating from high school, she studied psychology and drama at Queens University (Kingston, Canada). She then auditioned for, and was accepted to, The American Academy Of Dramatic Arts (Los Angeles, California), where she spent two years studying theatre. Following graduation she was asked to join the Academy ‘Company’, and in collaboration with nine other actors, enjoyed a challenging and rewarding third year performing theatre pieces. She finished her formal education at Pasadena City College, majoring in creative writing.
This combination of schooling provided her with an Associate Degree in Theatre Arts, and has enabled her to strike a fine balance of working both in front of, and behind a camera. Career highlights, as an actor, include: A Piece Of My Heart (Theatre), Look Back In Anger (Theatre), Rumours (TV Series), and The Line (TV Series). Writing endeavors that bring her the most pride are: Caterpillar Soup (Children’s Story), The Whistler Blower (Short Story), Scarlet Grace (Screenplay), and Gentle Bend (TV Series). Allison returned to Canada in 2000 and works in Vancouver, Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal, but still calls Perth home.
Youth Centre Coordinator: Aja Dixon
Aja is passionate about working in the non-profit sector and has extensive experience in program coordination, fundraising, and volunteer facilitation. She studied Canadian Studies and History at Carleton University. Aja has also recently completed many health and safety trainings and now holds certifications in Safe Food Handling, Trauma Informed Care, Standard First Aid and CPR along with ASIST – Applied Suicide Intervention.
She lived in Ottawa for several years after graduating, where she worked for Public Outreach, Bank & Vogue, the NDP National Election, and the Broadbent Institute. She returned to her hometown of Perth following a stint teaching English as a second language in South Korea. In addition to her current role at YAK Youth Services, Aja also runs the marketing campaigns for Spark Books & Curios and the Academy of Musical Theatre in Perth.
She is also a volunteer board member for Blue Skies In the Community where she focuses on community granting. With her diverse background in community engagement and dedication to youth empowerment, she is eager to make a meaningful impact on the lives of local young people.
Youth Centre Activity Leader: Landon Bedor
Landon is a talented local musician, songwriter, producer, and guitar instructor whose passion for music shines through in everything he does. Currently studying music business at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, Landon is committed to honing his craft and expanding his knowledge of the industry.
His journey in music began at an early age, leading him to explore various genres and develop a unique sound that resonates with audiences. As our Activity Leader at YAK Youth Services, Landon shares his love for music with young people, inspiring them to express themselves creatively and explore their own musical journeys.
With a warm and approachable demeanor, Landon creates a supportive environment for local youth, encouraging them to develop their skills while nurturing their individual voices. His dedication to teaching and mentoring reflects his belief in music as a powerful tool for personal growth and connection.
Whether he’s producing original tracks, teaching guitar lessons, or leading youth activities, Landon Bedor embodies a spirit of creativity and community, making a positive impact through his love for music and youth mentorship.
Youth Centre Activity Leader: Jamie Smith
Jamie holds degrees in Liberal Arts & Sciences from Mohawk Valley Junior College and the University of Southern Maine, where he exceled as an NCAA varsity athlete in hockey, baseball, and lacrosse, winning All-American honours and leading his team to a New York State Baseball Championship. He later earned a degree in Business Administration from York University, after which he served as the National Sales Manager for Central Wire Industries. Jamie is also an experienced entrepreneur; he previously owned and operated the Perth Athletic Centre, and currently runs McEwen & Smith Court Services, as well as The Iron Chapel, a private elite training facility. He also concurrently works with Blair & Son Funeral Home and the Coroner’s Office, and has been a firefighter with the Perth Fire Department since 2017.
In addition to his role as Athletics Coach here at YAK Youth Services, Jamie is very actively involved in the community. He serves as Assistant Pastor at Asbury Free Methodist Church, volunteers as a coach with a local minor hockey organization and with Perth United Soccer club, and is a member of the Lanark Highlander Rugby Team. He also holds numerous certifications from the International Fitness Association, Schwinn, OT University, and is certified in firefighting, CPR, and first-aid.
Youth Worker – Activity Leader Support Staff: Casual On-Call
- Andrew Wilson
- Nicholas Stein
Volunteer Staff:
- Ric Denis (Be in the Band Music Instructor)
YAK YOUTH SERVICES CODE OF CONDUCT
At YAK, we believe that everyone has the right to be treated with kindness, respect, and dignity. This Code of Conduct is in place to ensure that all who visit YAK Youth Services feel safe, supported, and respected.
Our Commitment to You
What you can expect from YAK Youth Services Staff and Volunteers:
- To be treated with kindness, respect, and fairness at all times.
- Consistent and fair enforcement of this Code of Conduct by all staff and volunteers.
Your Commitment to YAK Youth Services
What we expect from youth participants, their families, and visitors:
- Treat other youth, staff, and volunteers with kindness, respect, and fairness, at all times.
- Treat YAK facilities and property with care.
- No prohibited behaviours* conducted on YAK premises.
- Follow the guidelines and expectations outlined in this Code of Conduct.
*Prohibited Behaviours
The following behaviours are not allowed anywhere on YAK premises:
- Aggressive, threatening, or violent language or actions.
- Discriminatory, insensitive, or hurtful comments directed at individuals or groups of people.
- Bullying or exploiting others.
- Failure to cooperate with staff or volunteers.
- Possession or use of alcohol, drugs, or any illegal substances.
- Smoking or vaping on the premises.
- Possession of dangerous materials, including weapons or explosives.
- Any behaviour that endangers the health, safety, or well-being of yourself or others.
Consequences for Violations
Staff and volunteers are responsible for enforcing this Code of Conduct. If a violation occurs, the following steps may be taken:
- Minor or first-time violations: You will receive a verbal and/or written warning.
- Major or repeated violations: You may face a temporary ban from YAK Youth Services (and its premises), ranging from one day to a week or longer, and depending on the severity, you may be dismissed entirely.
- In cases of serious misconduct or disputes, the Executive Director (E.D.) or Board Chair will resolve the issue.
Our Commitment to Fairness
We are committed to enforcing this Code of Conduct consistently and fairly. If you have concerns or feel that a decision made regarding a violation is unfair, you are encouraged to speak with the E.D. or Board Chair for further discussion.
YAK partners with various youth service providers to offer a comprehensive network of support for local youth. In this community we are very fortunate to have the support of our local government and many organizations and individuals interested in promoting their well-being.
- Algonquin College Community Employment Services
- Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Lanark County
- Canadian Federation of University Women
- Carleton Place and District Youth Centre
- Climate Network Lanark
- Community Living Association
- Cornerstone Landing
- Family and Children’s Services Lanark Leeds and Grenville
- Girl Guides Canada
- Lanark County Child and Youth Services Collaborative
- Lanark County Community Justice
- Lanark County Interval House
- Lanark Highlands Youth Centre
- Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit
- Mississippi Mills Youth Centre
- Ontario Nonprofit Network
- Open Doors for Lanark Children and Youth
- Perth Children’s House
- Perth and District Collegiate Institute
- Perth and District Public Union Library
- Planet Youth
- Queer Connection Lanark
- R.N.J. Youth Services
- Second Harvest Food Rescue
- Studio Theatre Perth
- St. John Catholic High School
- The Table Community Food Centre
- YouthHAB
