PENHOLD – It’s for youth and about youth.
The 2019 Engaging Youth Conference will be held at the Penhold Regional Multiplex on Sept. 20.
“We were looking for more opportunities for older youth to engage in their communities,” said Jennifer Blaylock, FCSS coordinator for the Town of Penhold. “The focus of the conference is community engagement.”
The Red Deer and District FCSS (Family and Community Support Services) is partnering with the Town of Penhold for the one-day regional youth conference.
The event is open to youth from grades 8 to 12 from communities in the Red Deer and District FCSS partnership area, including Red Deer, Delburne, Elnora, Bowden, Penhold, and Red Deer County, as well as the hamlets of Springbrook, Spruce View and Benalto.
Transportation from each community outside of Penhold to the multiplex will be provided, noted Blaylock.
The conference will feature guest speakers, vendors and activities.
“In the morning we have Cody Deaner. He’s a professional wrestler and motivational speaker. He is lots of fun and engaging and will really draw the kids in,” said Blaylock. “In the afternoon we have Juan Bendana and he is a DJ, author and inspirational speaker.
“There’s going to be vendors at this conference as well, from Red Deer and (other) communities that have opportunities for youth to volunteer,” she added. “It’s engaging youth to learn about volunteering and learning about the causes of these different organizations in our communities,” said Blaylock, noting examples that include the humane society, the Crime Prevention Centre and the Penhold Youth Club.
The conference will allow youth to network and will be a great learning opportunity, she noted.
“There’s going to be lots of opportunities for the kids themselves to meet one another and connect that way.
“Getting youth active in their communities empowers them to help make their communities a better place now and for the future,” Blaylock concluded.
For conference details or to register, visit https://engagingyouthconference2019.eventbrite.ca
