Jane Emerick
[email protected]
This year's Youth Week from May 1 to 7, is focusing on making teens feel like they belong in the community and organizers of the events are challenging everyone to help increase the sense of connection between the youth and the town.
Suzanne Akers, coordinator at the youth centre and a part of the Youth Service Providers Committee, has created six suggestions for adults to show their appreciation for teens throughout the week.
Thank a teen at the drive-through window for doing such a good job.
Treat the teen who comes into your business to excellent customer service.
Crack a joke with a group of teens
Ask a teen if he or she is having a good day.
Smile at a teen.
Wish a teen a "Happy Youth Week".
According to Akers, by approaching teens and youth in a positive way, adults can ensure a greater likelihood of a positive result."For example, instead of asking a kid to 'move his frick'n skateboard', try saying something like 'nice ollie, but would you mind skateboarding somewhere else," said Akers.
Apart from showing their appreciation towards teens, the Youth Service Providers Committee has also organized weeklong events to inform teens and show them "the community thinks about them."
On Wednesday May 3 there will be a free youth skate at the Brennan Park Leisure Centre from 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. for those aged 13 to 18 years old. On Thursday May 4, a Scavenger Hunt at the Youth Centre will take place 3:15 - 5:15 p.m. and prizes for winners include an Ipod, a movie pass, and a digital camera. And on Friday May 5, there will be a free teen swim at the Brennan Park Leisure Centre from 8:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Marne Bourbonnais, recreation program coordinator for the District of Squamish, said the week is needed to make youth in the community feel like they belong. She said it is an important reminder for adults to think about what it is like to be a young.
"Adolescence sucks, kids are pushing the edges to find out who they are. It is a total phase of defining themselves so we should help them. Some adults forget they were a kid once," said Bourbonnais. "Youth Week makes kids feel like they are a part of the community and when we show them respect they will show respect to others. Respect for respect."
Educational aspects of the week will be met through Meth Forums throughout the week where a recovering addict, Lynn Smith, will talk about her experiences in an effort to prevent others from making the same mistakes.
Smith will present at a parent evening on Tuesday May 2, from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. at Totem Hall. Youths from grades 7 to 11 will be bused to Totem Hall on either Wednesday May 3, or Thursday May 4 to listen to Smith's story.
The Youth Service Providers Committee is welcoming everyone to attend the forums and communicate openly with their children and families about the risk of drug addiction.
For more information contact Leanna Buffie at
