Enhancing the future of our local youth

Political Speak - Youth! What are they all about? In my family, as a mother of three teenage sons I often ask myself, "What makes my boys tick?" What do they need? What do they think they need? Can I do more for them? Can I do more with them? What can I offer them to ensure they make good decisions, as they face the challenges that come with adulthood? What can I, as an elected official, offer families as they face these challenges?

I don't have all the answers, and I am not sure that anyone really does. But what I know beyond a shadow of a doubt is that there are good people in our communities trying to address these same questions.

We want the youth of our communities, and their families, to have the best possible chance to grow in a safe environment, to have opportunities that will help positively shape their lives, to know that they are valued in our communities and have lots to offer.

What is also apparent to me is that our youth are taking action in our neighbourhoods. There are plenty of good things happening with, and for, the young people in our communities, and they deserve to be acknowledged and celebrated.

One such thing is the recent opening of the new youth drop in centre in Eastern Passage. The youth of this community told us loud and clear that they wanted a place to hang out.

They wanted a place to meet up with their friends, in a safe environment, and share life's stories with each other, and grow together. And now they have just that.

Roughly four years ago YACPAC (Youth and Community Partnership Against Crime) set the re-establishment of a drop in center for Eastern Passage as a priority for their organization.

The youth played a key role in keeping the dream alive and when it was time for sweat equity, they stepped up and got the job done. Between meetings, they were painting murals, shopping for furniture, looking for donations, and planning a program.

The doors opened on Sept. 24 to 23 youth. I am proud to say that I played a small part in it, but the credit goes to the partners who made it happen.

At times when it is easier to sit back and complain about what is not out there in our communities, this community group took action to make it happen. Well done and congratulations to all.