Oct 30, 2017

Ladysmith youth to play pivotal role in planning for new youth strategy

Ladysmith, October 30, 2017 - The Town of Ladysmith is working with local youth and a variety of key community stakeholders on an extensive planning process aimed at creating a compelling, innovative and realistic roadmap that helps to engage Ladysmith youth, involve them in community activities, and ensure they play a prominent role in the decisions that affect them. 
"By integrating what has worked well previously with inspiring possibilities for the future, we can establish a framework of meaningful and exciting programs and services shaped both by youth representatives and a multitude of youth-related community organizations," said Ladysmith Mayor Aaron Stone. "The Ladysmith Youth Plan will also be further informed by the broader CVRD Regional Recreation Planning Project, currently underway."
Planning is expected to be completed in spring 2018 with youth playing a key role in all aspects of the process, which will be carried out in three phases:
Phase one: Building the Foundations - Initiate inventory of existing youth programs and services, begin research on best practices for youth programs, interview staff and community members associated with youth programs, and liaise with reps from three established community teams including a Youth Research Team.
Phase two: Community Consultation & Organizing Data - The Youth Research Team will work with other members of the project on community engagement activities. Data will be compiled and posted publicly for further review and feedback,
Phase three: Organizing the Plan - Consultants will work with participants to develop a final plan to be presented to Ladysmith Mayor and Council.
"I'm pleased that this process will be driven by youth and shaped by their feedback. It's an exciting exercise in collaboration. Ladysmith youth have powerful voices and our team is looking forward to working closely with them to develop programs and services that they want and need," said Danielle Winter, Early Years, Children and Youth Programmer.
Updates and additional information can be found on the Town’s website at www.ladysmith.ca.