Putting All Communities Together
GUIA, a translation to "guide" in English is a program supporting Ethnic and Cultural Minority Youth between the ages of 14 and 22 who are at risk of chemical abuse/dependency or mental health concerns. GUIA is a pro-social approach that engages youth by empowering and supporting them as they work toward creating a positive influence in their lives, communities, schools, and families.
GUIA provides individual 1:1 support by listening and assisting in increasing knowledge, developing life skills, and overcoming life’s hurdles without the use of alcohol or other drugs. This is accomplished by fostering positive relationships, setting goals, providing the support to meet those goals, and building on leadership skills.
Guia began over a decade ago working with Latino youth in our region. In 2019, the Guia program, with a grant from the Minnesota Department of Human Services, expanded to provide outreach, support, and education for Somali youth and their families.
Referrals to the GUIA program can be made by anyone aware of Ethnic and Cultural Minority Youth or young adults affected by chemical dependency or mental health problems.
Common Referral Sources Include:
Youth involvement is easy. Engaging youth in their own planning is effective and empowering. Want to get started? Simply begin by filling out a referral form and sending back to PACT or call to speak with a Coach. Our staff speak Spanish, Somali, and English.
In this partnership, one-on-one early intervention takes place through conversations between the GUIA Coach and youth and families. Through the Motivational Interviewing strategy, each individual has a unique experience, depending on needs and individual goals. Meetings may be short and frequent or longer depending on circumstance. The GUIA coach is available throughout the week by interacting with youth in school settings, in the community or at the home with their families.
Coordinator/Supervisor, (320) 231-7030 ext 2976
Virginia Leyva, Coach (320) 444-8769
Amina Mohammed Kharie, Somali Mental Health & Chemical Health Outreach Worker (320) 444-6872
