NORTH BATTLEFORD — Concern for Youth in North Battleford has been serving the community since 1989. What began as a three-year pilot project to address rising youth crime and behaviour issues has developed into a long-running support organization now in its 36th year.
Starting with only two staff members, the program now operates with six. It was built on input from community members, the RCMP, and local municipal governments. Over time, partnerships have been developed with the Battlefords Regional Community Coalition (BRCC), Tribal Councils, and school divisions. The Ministry of Social Services has become the main funder, though it takes a hands-off approach and allows the organization to run programs that meet the interests and needs of local youth. Two years ago, Concern for Youth took over Operation Red Nose Initiative as a major fundraising campaign and is also parallel to some of the messages wanted to be shared for young people.
Concern for Youth now serves children and youth between the ages of 5 and 19. Executive Director Linda Coe Kirkham noted an increase in younger children attending programs in recent years. The organization is based in the Scotia Bank building, where it shares space with ARC Creative Studios and Daniel Albert of Coyote Nutrition & Training gym. They even have family-based fitness programs, where children can work out with relatives. The partnership with Albert has been life-changing for many of the kids.
Although many different programs are offered, the main focus is on mentorship. The one-on-one mentorships help youth set goals, complete homework, prepare resumes, attend mock interviews, and learn personal skills like hygiene, cooking and sewing. Support is based on each child’s specific needs, with mental wellness being a primary concern.
Facilities include four mentor pods, a 3D printer, a kitchen, laundry services, and a visiting area. Downstairs, there is a classroom that will soon include a kitchen, as well as a shared gym space. Individual sports are emphasized, giving youth the chance to compete with themselves and potentially qualify for the Saskatchewan Winter Games.
Activities include art, cooking, clay work, sewing, and silk screening. Concern for Youth works closely with ARC to deliver arts programming, such as a recent eight-week workshop led by Sharron Burns. In addition to weekday activities, a staff member from Sakewew High School works with youth on weekends.
Currently, 39 youth are receiving individual mentorship, with about 70 more attending group programs.
Youth share thoughts
Echo Raine said, “They have helped me with so many things—school, self-esteem, and life skills like cooking and cleaning.”
Connor Dumont added, “It helped me through a rough time. The mentorship and the wrestling helped a lot.”
Aiyanna Starchief said, “It keeps us busy and inspired me to do better as a student.”
Summer Corbeil, who’s been with the program for three years, said, “It helped me through a lot of tough times with my mental health.” She takes part in wrestling, cooking, and sewing.
Executive Director Kirkham summarized, “The overall goal is to help youth develop into positive and capable teens and adults. This includes support to stay in school, make good choices, and explore new opportunities they may not otherwise have due to their circumstances.”
During this summer, why not give Concern for Youth a try? Weightlifting sessions are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, while wrestling is on Wednesdays. For more information about the programs, call 306-445-1020.
