Youth Advisory Council names board members

Posted Feb 16, 2012 By Richard Turtle

EMC Lifestyles -Stirling - With hopes of receiving a not-for-profit designation in the coming weeks, the Stirling Youth Advisory Council held its first Board of Directors meeting at the Youth Action Centre this week.

Board members include President Nia Brett, Vice President Angie White, Secretary/ Treasurer Kim Finkle, Communications Officer Esther Noel, Fund-raising Offi cer Marion Lennox, Members Beth Devries and Rod McNaueal, Centre Co-ordinator Owen Kerr and Liaison Elisha Maguire.

The newly appointed board will be responsible for administration, assuming the responsibilities previously undertaken by the advisory council, and makes way for increased fund-raising and grant opportunities in the event not-for-profit status is granted. Subcom-mittees, which will include teen members, will also provide input. A Trillium Grant received a year ago to cover much of the startup and operational costs runs out in a month, explains Board Liaison Elisha Maguire, so the organization will have to shift into fund-raising mode to ensure the continuation of programs. Grant applications have been submitted and several other plans are in the works.

Co-ordinator Owen Kerr reported that visits have been steadily increasing at the centre though January saw a slight drop from December, perhaps, he suggested, because of weather conditions. Similar numbers are being reported in Quinte West with a larger population and better facilities, Kerr says, "so I think this is outstanding."

Participation in programs and special events has also been strong, he says.

In her fund-raising report, Marion Lennox noted that local participation in Sleep Out! In Belleville January 27 was greatly appreciated with the Stirling contingent proving an exemplary group. But even illness and a diagnosed concussion didn't leave the chaperones overwhelmed. "We had six boys and they were really good," says Volunteer Ashley Vader who was feeling under the weather for much of the overnight experience to raise funds and awareness for the homeless.

And it was a learning experience, she says.

"The kids were astounded how much more difficult it was. They were so shocked." But their contribution to the cause was well noted. After receiving a letter of thanks from its executive director, she says, "the Canadian Mental Health Association was really proud of us."

"Six twelve-year-old kids," Lennox says. "They were great." And despite her unexpected fall and a dizzying bump on the head, she says, it was a very memorable experience.

The YAC group raised about $400, Vader says, with Sleep Out! Events in Bancroft and Belleville totaling $12,000.