Submitted
It’s fun. It’s safe. It’s affordable.
It’s the Ponoka Youth Centre.
If you have ever driven past this building at 5004 54 Street and wondered what it’s all about, you will not want to miss the open house on Nov. 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. Drop in with the entire family to take a tour, participate in activities and find out more information about the programs offered. There will also be information for those who might be interested in the many volunteer opportunities available at the Ponoka Youth Centre. Come and check things out at one of the busiest places in town.
The Ponoka Youth Centre is a government licensed and accredited agency that has been serving the community for the past 10 years. Located in the old Grade One building across from Centennial Park, the Ponoka Youth Centre is the place to be each week for all children and youth ages 5 to 17 years of age. Offering innovative programming under the supervision of dedicated and well-trained staff and community volunteers, the Ponoka Youth Centre is a welcoming location for youth.
“We offer programming six days of the week throughout the entire year. Our building is a very busy place.” commented Beth Reitz, executive director of the Ponoka Youth Centre. “We really care about the kids in this community. We want them to know this is a safe place for them to come to hang out and have fun with their friends.”
The Ponoka Youth Centre offers 11 programs. Children ages six to 11 years old enjoy the After School, SOD (School’s Out Day), Summer and Torch Programs. Youth ages 12 to 17 attend programs more geared toward their age group, including Face Off (drop in hockey), Fusion (creative pursuits and sports), Keystone (leadership development) and the Drop In Centre. In addition, the Ponoka Youth Justice Committee, Youth Drug Impact Program and Kinections Program are offered through the Ponoka Youth Centre.
“Over the years, we have worked hard to get to know the youth in this community. We want to know what makes them tick, what interests them, what issues they are facing. With that in mind, we then attempt to offer programming to meet these needs,” commented Reitz.
The Ponoka Youth Centre is certainly a place that is brimming with activity and energy. Come and check it out at the open house Nov. 6.