2009 In Review - Transition Program

EYC Reaches Out To New Members
By Marc Rocheleau

Transitioning into high school can be difficult but Essex Youth Centre (EYC) hopes to make it easier for students.

On Monday, June 8, EYC staff began making presentations to grade eight classes in the area. Talking about the summer transition program, the goal is to reach out to those who will be going to high school in September.

“[We’ll] be heading out to all the feeder schools around Essex High School,” said 24-year-old Director of Activities, Steve Dale. “There’s seven in general: Holy Names, Essex Public School, Gossfield North, Colchester North, Maidstone, St. Mary’s and St. John’s. We go to all the grade eight classes and essentially tell them about the programs we offer.”

Most popular is EYC’s drop-in program, where youth can hang out during normal hours of operation. Other activities may include LAN parties, movie marathons, paintball, rock’n’bowl and go-karting during the summer.

Although these events are in the works, the transition program is also setup to help grade eight students make connections with others before going to high school.

“Mainly what we’re trying to do is get the grade eights interacting with some of the older kids,” said Dale. “… Where they get a chance to meet them so they’re not scared the first day they come into school.”

Last year’s transition program brought in roughly 30-40 kids ; a goal Dale hopes to top this summer. In addition to being a good place to visit while school’s out, he also believes that EYC benefits youth beyond that.

“EYC offers a bunch of great opportunities through either getting their 40 hours of community service that they all have to get by the time they graduate,” said Dale. “There’s other opportunities to work in the actual community through community involvement.”

He also said the centre provides a safe environment for youth with supervision by “qualified professionals.” Despite being in the Community Arts, Aquatics and Recreational Complex at Essex High School, EYC is there for area youth to have a good time, no matter where they attend.

“We’re looking to have some fun this summer,” said Dale. “And that’s about it.”