A forum in Abbotsford in May will bring together youth and community leaders to share ideas and concerns about local issues.
Speak Out 2011: A Dialogue between Youth and Community Leaders takes place Tuesday, May 3 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Clearbrook Library, 32320 George Ferguson Way. Registration begins at 3 p.m.
The event is hosted by the Abbotsford Youth Commission’s (AYC) Youth Council as part of Youth Week (May 1 to 7).
The idea to for young people to gain awareness of decisions made within the community, while having a chance to have their voices heard, said Bev Olfert, AYC executive director.
Prior to the forum, the youth council will invite four community leaders to meet with them at one of their regular meetings. They will be asked to share information such as what their job entails, how decisions are made and what initiatives they are working on.
This will enable the teens to determine the direction of Speak Out 2011.
The actual forum will be conducted in “cafe format” – tables set up around the room, each presenting a different topic.
Each table will consist of youth participants, a community leader and a facilitator. Participants will rotate tables, and at the end of the forum, they will develop an action plan.
For more information, call the AYC at 604-854-8785.