The Golden Youth Centre (GYC) received a ReDi grant to bring more storage, counter space, stage enhancements and meaningful programs to the youth of the community of Golden, B.C. through its Youth Centre Revitalization and Representation Project (YCRRP).
“We are so grateful to the Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) and the Town of Golden (TOG) for its support through this grant,” says Sarah Wegelin, GRYN/GYC Coordinator, who says she applied for the grant due to increased programming and activity within the facility.
“We have about 8-20 youth accessing the facility every day. Programming runs from 3:30 pm to 8 pm on most days and varies from games to art projects to karaoke and jam sessions. It really is a multi-functional space and being able to put more storage, new counters and enhance the stage will help make everything feel safe and efficient when we’re busy with activities. The project will increase our capacity to run programs and build on quality programming and have events as well,” she says.
Upgrades are planned to the stage area with new equipment, and a lighting system to enhance the quality of experience for youth in programs such as School of Rock, karaoke events, open mic nights and jam sessions. The project includes workshops on how to utilize the equipment and the development of orientation manuals for youth and user groups accessing the facility.
In June 2024 the GRYN/GYC implemented a Climate Action Project (CAP), titled, “Revive and Thrive.” Through the project a maker space was created at the Youth Centre. Youth began work on upcycling projects, Halloween costumes and made costumes for Emberfest. With more than nine projects on the go at once, it was determined storage was needed to hold works in progress, craft supplies and more.
“Food programs are one of the most popular activities we do. More stable countertops will provide a safe communal space for connection and engagement. A portion of the funding will go towards revitalizing the kitchen counter tops and storage for supplies,” says Wegelin.
Additionally, the GYC will provide a series of workshops and events for youth utilizing music and food programs to learn about various cultures, life skills and leadership skills through hiring a youth to liaise with indigenous and cultural groups from our community and build workshops that are meaningful for them.
“I’m looking forward to working with a youth from the community on this project and building programs to connect youth with cultural groups and activities. I feel the time couldn’t be more right for this and look forward to all the beautiful projects that come out of the program,” says Wegelin.
The GRYN/GYC is run through the Golden Community Resources Society (GCRS). It is funded by through the CBT’s Youth Network and has been serving youth in the community of Golden, B.C., since its inception in 2012.
“We have had a lot of support from our community partners and volunteers, and our programs have been successful. I’m thankful to them. I’m so proud of the GRYN and the youth who drop in every day and make the youth centre a fun, respectful and inclusive space. The Youth Centre provides a point of connection for youth to find out more about what’s going on in the community, become engaged in community, and build community while learning new skills,” Wegelin says.
For more information on programs and services through the GRYN/GYC contact gryn.golden@gmail.com or its Facebook page for information on daily activities and events.
