Our Story
The Portal Youth Outreach Association is a caring, community-driven non-profit dedicated to supporting youth aged 16–24 who face challenges like homelessness, instability, or barriers to education, employment, and wellness. We walk alongside young people, offering the respect, connection, and consistent support they need to build a safe and hopeful future.
The Portal began in 2008 as a grassroots response to a community crisis. After learning how many youth in the Annapolis Valley were facing homelessness, concerned individuals and organizations came together to act. With early support from Valley Gate Church and other local partners, the Portal launched as an outreach initiative focused on meeting youth where they were at.
Since 2010, we’ve grown from a team of two to over 50 staff across three counties. Today, The Portal is a trusted resource and a regional leader in youth support, helping more than 2,000 young people navigate complex systems and access the care they deserve. We continue to grow — driven by the needs and voices of youth, and grounded in strong partnerships across the public and community sectors.
What Guides Us
Respect
Every young person’s story and dignity matter deeply to us.
Community
We believe youth belong to strong, inclusive communities that nurture their wellbeing.
Compassion
We believe empathy and understanding are the foundation for healing and growth.
Basic Rights
Youth have the right to shelter, food, healthcare, education, safety, and belonging.
Youth Voice
Young people are vital partners in shaping the solutions that affect their lives.
Partnership
We collaborate with individuals, families, and organizations to create lasting change.
Who We Serve
We support youth aged 16–24 in the Annapolis Valley, West Hants and Digby County who are facing challenges like homelessness, poverty, family breakdown, and systemic barriers.
Many of the young people we walk with come from diverse backgrounds and have unique stories — including 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, racialized youth, and those transitioning out of care. Our programs are inclusive, youth-centred, and rooted in trust.