Youth Unlimited
We see the hope and potential in every young person
If you aren't familiar with Youth Unlimited, it is a beacon of hope for the youth of Niagara. About a month ago we attended a fundraising breakfast for the centre, along with Mayor Walter Sendzik, where we learned of all their great doings. Since then we haven't been able to stop thinking about how we could help!
We recently toured their youth centre located on Merritt Street in St.Catharines, where we were able to meet the team behind the scenes. The Deck Youth Centre is a safe place for young people to be with caring adult volunteers. They have the opportunity to be confidentially mentored and to explore life-related concerns and issues.
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| The amazing team at Youth Unlimited! |
Teen years are tough! Young people are faced with many challenges today - physically, mentally, emotionally, socially and spiritually. They are also faced with finding a safe place to spend time with friends, and what to do when they get there. Rose and her team at Youth Unlimited join them on their journey and have developed many programs to help keep them engaged and facilitate healthy growth.
Youth Unlimited's programs include:
- Friday night drop-in at The Deck Youth Centre 7 to 10 pm (ages 13-19)
- Monday ‘Homework Helps’ 5 to 7 pm (all youth)
- Tuesday night ‘Girls Only’ small group 6:30 to 8:30 pm (ages 12- 19)
- Wednesday YPN—Young Pregnant in Niagara prenatal class 3:30 to 5:30 pm (up to age 23)
- Wednesday night ‘Man Time’ small group 7 to 9 pm (ages 13 to 19)
- Thursday ‘Young Moms’ 4 to 7 pm (up to age 23)
- Summer camp and special events
The Youth Unlimited team meet the youth where they are at in their daily lives and offer friendship and support, a listening ear and helpful direction, as well as problem solving guidance and conflict resolution. The centre also includes a baby boutique (gently used baby clothes), teen closet (gently used clothes/shoes/gowns), and food pantry.
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| Touring through The Deck |
With all of the positive work going on at the centre, they are looking to expand! They want to add a teaching kitchen space, more room for young moms and their children, and improve accessibility, among many other great features. That's why we have decided to partner with the centre, Rinaldi Homes has committed $25,000 to help the centre continue to provide amazing services to youth in Niagara!
We were able to attend the Young Moms Christmas party this week to present our donation, and they were so appreciative! There was so much joy and Christmas spirit filling the play rooms - with babies as young as 11 days old.
Youth Unlimited is always looking for more volunteers - women and men! If you would like more information visit yfcstcatahrines.com for more information.
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| Presenting our donation to Youth Unlimited! |
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