New programs in development for youth centre
Members of the Battlefords group that established a teen drop-in centre feel it is already making a difference.
In June 2016, Concern for Youth moved into a new office at the Don Ross Centre, a facility owned by the City of North Battleford. The need for a drop-in centre for teenagers was highlighted in a feasibility study, and found to align with the city’s goals as part of its community safety strategy.
Nicole Fidelak, executive director, explained the new location offers space such as a gym, kitchen, craft room, and outdoor area, giving staff the opportunity to try out new programs. One of the new ideas is a regular sports night, which was set to be launched with a barbecue on Monday, Aug. 22 at 4 p.m. Other plans in the works include a dance program, movie nights, and cooking classes.
“Having the new space, we have some new staff who are just really fantastic at connecting with youth in the city,” Fidelak said. “They’ve been making really great connections and building those relationships with youth. They’ve been really exploding our nutrition program and hanging out at the skate park, and helping out at the fair this past week.”