Youth council links young people to community
The Hyjinx Airdrie Youth Council is working to give young people the opportunity to express their opinions on municipal issues.
The council was created by the City in 2005 after a needs assessment survey determined more social programs were required for young people in the community.
The council currently consists of 12 members and runs from September to June. Robbie White, the City’s community developer for youth, began working with the council in 2007 and says that the council allows the youth to shape and become involved in their community.
“They want Airdrie to be more vibrant with more business opportunities and more things to do, but they also want it to keep its small-town feel. (The council) gives them the opportunity to share their views and opinions,” White said.
The council tackles issues, such as vandalism, bullying, youth social programs, and parks and recreation. It also partners with local organizations, like the Airdrie Boys and Girls Club and Community Links, to host youth-friendly community events. One of the council’s main events is Youth Week, which is held annually at the beginning of May. The council began planning and running Youth Week in 2005. The main event for 2011 was Airdrie’s Got Talent, a youth talent show that consisted of 15 entertainment acts, which took place May 13.
Sienna Moren and Mackenzie Ebel joined the council at the encouragement of a friend, and both have been involved for two years. Ebel says that the council “looks good on a résumé and gives the youth a voice,” while Moren believes that it is good to get involved with the city and know what’s going on. Jordan Devins, a fellow council member, would like to the see the group have more input with City council.
White said that Hyjinx hopes to expand Youth Week next year. It hopes to host a youth conference in the future and to create a program that recognizes the academic, athletic and community achievements of Airdrie youth.
“Airdrie has a youth population of about 20 per cent, which is a large group of people. Some may not be ready for a leadership role or may be apathetic to (community) issues, but it’s about getting the youth excited about (getting involved),” he said.
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