Summary of organization/program
This is a lively meeting place where young people aged 12 to 17 , in contact with significant adults, to become critical citizens, active, independent and responsible.
Contact information
Geographic region
local (Pointe-St-Charles)
Participants
youth aged 12-17 years old
History/Background Information
The youth of Pointe St-Charles was founded in 1984 as a result of efforts of citizens and community workers in the neighborhood who were able to identify the unmet needs of adolescents. Indeed, there was almost no extracurricular activities that were directed specifically at adolescents. People in the community then realized the urgent need for these kids to have a place of belonging where they have rights and responsibilities.
- Established: 1984
Dominant Media Forms
video production
photography
music production
Objectives
To create respect, autonomy, teamwork, trust, reconciliation, experimentation, openness, participation, critical thinking.
Statement of Principles
Be a group of significant adults and youth for which members will develop a sense of belonging. Provide a gathering place in a welcoming, safe and non-judging. Organize activities and help young people to do the same, in order to help establish the foundation for a trusting relationship, reference and help enhance the vitality of youth. Encourage young people to play an active role in their community.
Strategies
Youth centers were created to meet a critical need in the adolescent population: having a place of belonging which young people can identify. However, since young age and their needs change, the only way to have a resource that is constantly adapted them to give them the tools to reflect their identities and realities. That is why the youth centers are not only open to the involvement of its members, but they could not function without them. Examples of the place reserved for youth in the control of various levels of the organization.