MEET TEAM Link II

Link was bursting with excitement to start his new job at the Chinook Child and Youth Advocacy Centre (CCYAC). As a program of the Chinook Sexual Assault Centre, the CCYAC supports children, youth, and their non-offending caregivers who have been impacted by child abuse as they move from the investigation through to the criminal justice system.  

Link has been spending a lot of time with the kids before their forensic interviews, while they are meeting with Crown Prosecutors, and laying with them as they learn new grounding techniques to help them feel calm. His presence has a remarkable calming effect and children who arrive anxious or fearful often begin to smile, speak, or engage more easily after spending just a few minutes with him. We can’t wait to see him join the kids during their forensic interviews or court proceedings – whether it’s at our Centre or the local courthouse. 

Link’s a social butterfly who loves to visit, but his favourite people to meet are the kids and youth who come to our Centre. It’s so heartwarming to see their faces light up when Link enters the room with a happy tail, ready to spend time with them. 

When he isn’t spending time with the kids, he happily attends various meetings with me, my colleagues, and other service providers. He never fails to bring a smile to people’s faces when his tail starts wagging as he naps under the table. 

Link is truly my “paw”-tner, and he’ll follow me wherever I go – even if I’m just walking from my kitchen to my living room in the evenings. I couldn’t have asked for a better shadow. His goofy, calm personality makes every day a little brighter. 

My workplace and I are so grateful to PADS and everyone who helped shape Link into who he is. He takes each day with a positive attitude, a willingness to listen, and an eagerness to learn and help. PADS has made it possible for us to make even easier what might be the hardest time in a child’s life, and for that, we cannot thank you enough. It’s so deeply appreciated. 

– Baylee, Link II’s Handler