Youth
Youth workers and volunteers are role models who introduce faith to our young people and are living examples both of that faith, and of healthy, responsible, trustworthy adults. We build trust between our youth and leaders so that when our youth need extra support there are people of faith who they can turn to.
Our youth range from 13 – 21 years old. They are from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. We seek to encourage a healthy lifestyle that includes the whole person. We talk about attitudes, choices and behaviour, as well as, healthy eating, and exercise. We are open about our faith, which is the foundation for who we are and what we do.
Youth squads are weekly small groups where we have games, healthy food, dialogue, laughter, fun, Bible time, and prayer. There is a high leader to youth ratio so that they can build trust with that group of peers and leaders in a safe environment. Most youth leaders also meet two or three youth one-on-one in a mentoring role.
A number of our youth have come up through the kids’ squad ministry. We try to, in turn, introduce them to leadership roles within the kids’ squads ministry. This gives our youth leadership opportunities with adults and furthers the process of training them to reach their potential and develop life skills. Many of our youth volunteer at Sunday church and assist our kitchen team.
In addition to youth squads, we have a range of other opportunities as a point of contact for other youth. These include a bi-weekly book club, March break and summer camps, as well as movie nights and other special events.
In their own words about youth squads:
“All the leaders are nice. They are really cool role models for us, and they know what is best for us. I love going to youth group. You make some really good friends. (Sherry, 18)
“At youth group you get to experience God. You can just feel that He is with you at all times when your there. It also means we have some where to hang out, and that takes us teens off of the street so that we don’t get into trouble and stuff.” (Felicia, 15)
