On February 6, 2026, the Prescott-Russell Victim Services (SVPRVS) officially launched Teen: IRL (In Real Life), a new awareness and prevention program designed to support community organizations and partners in addressing issues affecting young people aged 12 and over.
Developed to reflect the realities young people face today, Teen: IRL offers a series of bilingual, interactive workshops, as well as practical and concrete tools, that encourage discussion and reflection around real-life situations related to safety, relationships, and informed decision-making.
The program addresses key themes, including:
- Violence and bullying;
- Human trafficking;
- Consent and healthy relationships; and
- Online safety and cyberviolence.
“Providing youth with relevant tools that are adapted to their reality is essential to promote prevention. Teen: IRL is grounded in collaboration with community partners to address important issues and to contribute to the development of safer, healthier communities,” declared Marie Lemay, Executive Director of the Prescott-Russell Victim Services.
“As a community resource accessible to youth and to families, the Hawkesbury Public Library is proud to have taken part in the launch of Teen: IRL. The activities effectively engage young people of all ages and encourage them to reflect on topics that are not often openly discussed. We are pleased to collaborate on this meaningful initiative for the benefit of the community,” declared Emanuelle Olivieri, CAO of the Hawkesbury Public Library.
“Today’s youth face a complex digital world, and initiatives like this — focused on education, awareness, and engagement — are essential to help them make safe, informed choices. Programs that teach young people to recognize risks, identify dangerous situations, and seek help at the right time are invaluable for reducing victimization. The use of interactive tools, including virtual reality, shows a commitment to innovation and reaching youth where they are. The Ontario Provincial Police will continue to work closely with community organizations to support our youth and to strengthen safety and well-being in Prescott and Russell,” declared Inspector Normand Lamontagne, Acting Detachment Commander of the Russell County detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police.
The program launch was held at the Council Chambers of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell (UCPR). It was an open house event that allowed community partners, elected officials, and stakeholders to explore the program and to experience its interactive components.
Teen: IRL aligns with the regional priorities of the Prescott and Russell Community Safety and Well-Being Plan and reflects a collaborative approach focused on prevention and early intervention among youth.
The Prescott-Russell Victim Services extend their sincere thanks to the UCPR, as well as to the partners of the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan, for their continued support in making this program a reality.
Community organizations interested in learning more about Teen: IRL or in exploring the possibilities of program integration within their services are invited to contact the Prescott-Russell Victim Services.