People gathered at the Kinship Connection Centre on Jan. 9 for the annual general meeting for the Nakusp and area Youth Society.
The event was kicked off with a barbecue. There were burgers and hot dogs, along with an array of vegetables, chips, sweets, and beverages.
People gathered in groups of twos and threes, eating and chatting before the meeting got underway.
Along with members of the board, there were also volunteers and a student from Nakusp Secondary School (NSS).
Getting down to business, the board started with discussions on activities for the youth of the area while they’re at the centre. Some potential ideas were a homework night, cooking classes for students at the Old Fire Hall, and hosting another media awareness night for girls, which was part of the summer program.
Because of a bylaw, the board has to have at least five members, so an election took place as well. Among those newly elected to the board was Emma Hundey, a Grade 10 student at NSS.
Hundey is very excited to be on the board.
“I thought it would be good to have a youth voice for the youth centre. Instead of it just being all adults, you get more of an impact on what they want,” she said. “It’s going to be great to be able to contribute, and help out in the community more.”
Another issue discussed was bullying. It was stated that if any issues come up, such as a teenager acting in an inappropriate manner, the matter is dealt with right away. Talks of disciplinary actions were brought up, and while the society would never permanently ban any youth from the centre, temporary suspensions were among the suggestions brought up. There are procedures and resources in place to deal with any issues of bullying that could come up at the youth centre.
Stephanie Roger, youth coordinator for the centre, thought the meeting went really well.
“I was happy to see there were some new faces, and people showing interest,” she said. “I think the more that word gets out about the society and what we’re doing, it will help it grow.”