Powell River Youth Resource Centre (YRC) is celebrating its grand opening on Monday, June 27.
“We are very proud to finally be at this exciting stage,” said Tracy Tunstall, YRC coordinator. “Over 203 youth and adults have volunteered their time toward this project, and the results are fantastic.”
The grand opening is taking place just over one year since the initiative was awarded First Credit Union’s 10k Giveaway by community vote, providing the seed money necessary for the project to move forward.
The centre will provide educational, recreational, cultural and social programming opportunities for any youth ages 13 to 18 years old, all for free or very low cost. “We have a number of community partners who have agreed to support this initiative and our hope is that the YRC will become a space where community youth and their adult allies can come together,” Tunstall explained.
YRC youth committee member Jasmine Kristensen said the centre will give youth new things to do. “It will give us a chance to meet new people and make the community stronger,” she said.
There is a shortage of safe spots for teens to hang out in Powell River, committee member Rowan Devana added. “I’m really proud to be part of this project because I know from experience that youth centres can be a huge benefit in providing volunteer opportunities and teamwork skills,” she said.
The YRC will start off this July offering summer programming. “This differs from our September-June schedule, which is mostly after-school drop-in programming,” said Tunstall. “Starting off with summer programming will allow us to introduce the space one opportunity at a time.”
Summer activities include employment skills workshops offered through the Service Canada youth service officer, evening events such as games tournaments and jam nights and afternoon activities that include backyard sports, baking and community beautification projects. “There really is no limit to the programming opportunities that exist through this great space and this generous community,” Tunstall said.
Tunstall and the young people involved are hoping that interested community members will drop by YRC on Monday for the open house and community celebration. It’s located next to the Community Resource Centre in the former home of Minato Sushi, 4746 Joyce Avenue. Speeches start at 3:30 pm, with tours and open house from 4 to 7 pm. “Come out and see what we have to offer Powell River youth and if you’re a youth you can try out the equipment and sign up for summer events and workshops,” said Tunstall.
The youth committee is hopeful that some adults will also try out the equipment and activities at the YRC. “It’s great to have a space specifically for youth, but the YRC is also about youth connecting with supportive adults,” said Patrick Gibson, a member of the youth committee.
Any readers wanting more information are encouraged to contact Tunstall at 604.485.3090.
