Youth Voice challenges other youth to “Be Heard”

September 8, 2008

(Red Deer, Alberta) – Youth Voice, a Red Deer group aimed at getting youth more involved in tackling local issues, is looking for six new members.

Youth Voice is a group of youth ages 13 to 22 who meet weekly to discuss and take part in initiatives such as youth leadership, respect/anti-bullying, improving access to transportation and recreation, and other issues such as education, the environment and the youth justice system. Members develop local projects, hold special events, and advocate to local government on youth-related issues.

“Youth Voice is a great way to get involved in your community and make changes,” says Melanie Ang, a Youth Voice member. “The environment is really open and fun. There’s great camaraderie, even when we’re debating about something. It helps you become more outgoing and more politically aware.”

Members note that joining Youth Voice is an opportunity to gain volunteer hours and experience and to attend youth conferences, all of which are impressive additions to university and scholarship applications and résumés. Membership in Youth Voice also offers a chance to meet other youth who want to make a difference.

“I like the range of volunteering that we do,” says Salima Shariff, another Youth Voice member. “We’ve done everything from stuffing Christmas stockings for the Salvation Army to volunteering at a seniors’ centre, besides all the work we’ve done on bullying awareness.”

The group is looking for members from diverse backgrounds, including those in non-traditional schooling and youth who have left school, and asks new members to commit to one year on joining.

The deadline for applications is September 12 and the application form can be found at www.reddeer.ca. The group typically meets Wednesdays after school at City Hall.

                                                      - end -

For more information, contact:

Linda Healing                     Melanie Ang                     Salima Shariff
Community Facilitator         Youth Voice Member        Youth Voice Member
Social Planning                  403-302-0720                    403-598-6183
The City of Red Deer
403-342-8342