The Youth Activity Centre (YAC) Project, led by the Town of White City’s Youth Advisory Committee, is an initiative that aims to significantly benefit the youth of both the community and surrounding region. By providing a dedicated space for various recreational activities, the YAC will offer a much-needed outlet for young people to engage in physical activity, social interaction, and skill development. Additionally, the development and implementation of the project provides the members of the Youth Advisory Committee the opportunity to learn valuable skills in project management, finance, fundraising and social skills.
Benefits to Youth:
- Promotes Physical Activity and Well-being
The project is designed to combat the growing concern of sedentary lifestyles among youth. By encouraging outdoor activities like mini golf, volleyball, disc golf, and other sports, the YAC helps youth stay active, which is crucial for both physical health and mental well-being. - Social Engagement and Connection
The YAC will serve as a social hub where young people can gather, interact, and build lasting friendships. This is especially beneficial in today's digital age, where many young people are more isolated. The YAC provides an environment where they can engage in fun, communal activities, fostering a sense of belonging and community. - Skill Development and Employment Opportunities
In addition to providing recreational activities, the YAC will create local employment opportunities for youth, such as jobs at the canteen, equipment rentals, or maintenance of the facility. This not only offers income but also helps youth develop important life and job skills that can be valuable for future employment. - Appeal to Older Youth Demographic
Unlike typical playgrounds and parks that may cater primarily to younger children, the YAC is purposefully designed to engage older youth. The combination of varied sports courts, competitive games like mini golf, and diverse recreational offerings will attract teens and young adults who are often underserved by traditional community spaces. - Strengthens Community Identity and Involvement
By offering a unique and engaging recreational facility, the YAC helps strengthen the community’s identity and pride. It will serve as a landmark within the region, drawing not only local residents but also visitors from neighboring towns, which in turn enhances the town’s profile and helps connect youth from various areas. - Long-Term Youth Engagement
The Youth Activity Centre is envisioned as a long-term investment in the community’s future. It will provide a space where multiple generations of youth can find engagement and enjoyment, continuously supporting the community's goal of being a vibrant and active town.
Why This Matters for the Region:
The YAC stands out as a regional destination that will attract youth and families from surrounding areas, helping White City become a leader in youth-centered community development. This project will fill a gap in recreational services for older youth across the region, and its unique offerings (such as a yak-themed mini golf course and multi-sport facilities) are not commonly available in nearby communities.
The combination of social, physical, and employment benefits makes the Youth Activity Centre a critical component of White City's efforts to support youth, foster community engagement, and enhance the town’s regional appeal.
Cost Estimates:
