RESEARCH compiled by Armidale Dumaresq Council has revealed an alarming statistic in the region’s young people who said they had virtually no knowledge of what youth services organisations were available to them.
Armed with this data, Armidale Dumaresq Council, in collaboration with the region’s youth services organisations, are hosting the inaugural Youth Opportunities Expo at UNE’s Lazenby Hall next Wednesday from 10am to 3pm.
The expo will showcase the services and opportunities for young people in the region.
“During the event stalls will look at health, well-being, welfare, employment and educational services available to young people locally,” council’s youth services co-ordinator Sally Schofield said.
“We have had great response from the community with a number of schools keen to attend and lots of interest from youth services organisations.
“It’s open to the whole community and we are very keen to see parents come along and get involved.”
Around 35 stall holders and 250 participants have so far registered to attend the expo.
One area of particular concern to schools is helping students manage stress levels leading up to and during exams.
Hunter New England Health will be offering some come and try sessions in laughter, yoga and Tai-Chi and the organisers are encouraging all stall holders to make their displays and information interactive.
Ms Schofield said her role was to facilitate communication between youth services organisations and find the best opportunities for young people.
“At the moment I am recruiting for representatives on the Youth Council which enables young people to have a voice and be involved in some of the decisions that affect them,” she said.
“I also look at different funding opportunities that are available and help youth services groups apply for that funding so that we can provide options and activities for young people.”
