Touch Of a Goddess

The Touch of a Goddess (TOG) Program is an internal initiative designed to reach the needs of female youth who suffer from the effects of low self-esteem and negative body image. The program is held at 1076 Pape Avenue (Touchstone Youth Centre) in the Multipurpose Room of the main floor.

Participants of the TOG Program are those who have suffered compounded years of emotional and physical abuse and are now experiencing difficulty with progressing through to independence. These young females, mostly users of the youth shelter system of Toronto, display the negative residual effects of the trauma they have experienced by high-risk behaviours that may jeopardize their well-being. Some of these include sexual promiscuity, drug trafficking, prostitution and other self-injurious behaviour.

The TOG Program is designed to use the familial atmosphere of a salon setting to provide participants with the opportunity to speak about embedded trauma and learn self-worth through self-beautification. Participants will learn the trade of cosmetics and interact with female Child and Youth Workers who will provide mentorship on how to develop positive perceptions of self. To do this, the program intends to have young females participate in self-beautification activities. Some of these lessons include hair care, manicures, pedicures, facials, massage therapy and aromatherapy. Participants will also learn coping skills that include positive self-talk, designing a positive support system and positive ways to take care of themselves. Other by-products of the program will include a heightened awareness for hygiene and its relationship to self-care.

Facilitators of the program will include staff members of Touchstone Youth Centre and students from the following colleges and universities: University of Toronto, Seneca College, Centennial College, Humber College, George Brown College and Medics School. Supporting disciplines include Social Service Worker, Child and Youth Worker, Social Worker, Community Worker and Aestheticians.