Team Youth Force Co. with Friends was a youth group whose focus was to create activities for youth in Hafford and promote a youth-friendly attitude amongst the community.
In 2008 a small group of youth was approached during a community planning process, led by the Hafford-Blaine Lake Community Advisory Network and the Prince Albert Parkland Health Region, to provide information and feedback on what influences the health and lifestyle of youth in Hafford and area. This initial meeting sparked excitement and enthusiasm among the group to make a difference and influence change in those areas that they identified as challenges in their community.
Teens from Grades 6 to 12 from the Hafford area were invited to join the group. The youth identified two long-term goals. The first to establish a youth centre in Hafford and secondly to become active members of their community and to have their community involve youth. Although their long-term goal of one day having a youth centre in Hafford was never realized, Team Youth Force has been an active part of their community.
Over the past eight years, as many as 30 youth have been involved in numerous community events, organizing the parades and activities for children and youth during Summer Sizzle, planning activities for children/youth at the Hafford Centennial Celebrations and participating in Winterama the recreation board hosted every January. Team Youth Force also partnered with the Town of Hafford to revitalize the Kinsmen Park.
Team Youth Force also began hosting movie nights, providing newly released movies to the community at a low cost. Movie night could no longer be sustained in 2015 due to lack of attendance. While they were working on these goals they were able to participate in many fun activities that helped them develop team building and leadership skills.
After hosting a few movies in the National Hall the group noted the building was in need of upgrading. They became passionate about this project. They raised funds by hosting two Valentine’s dances and worked a bingo. The group also partnered with the Town of Hafford and the Redberry Lake Biosphere Reserve applying for and receiving a grant. They also received some donations from community groups.
Over the past several years the group has raised $10,500. Some of these funds have been used to re-shingle the roof on the National Hall. The remaining funds have been given in trust to the Town of Hafford for further revitalization of the National Hall.
This past spring Team Youth Force was faced with a difficult decision and sadly had decided to dissolve. Members participate in many extracurricular activities that posed conflicts.
Team Youth Force appreciates the support and encouragement of Hafford Summer Sizzle, Innovation Credit Union, the Town of Hafford and many others over the years. This opportunity has allowed group members to further develop leadership and team building skills. They hope to be remembered for their passion for the National Hall Revitalization and hope Hafford will continue to strive to be a youth-friendly community.
