Redcliff Youth Centre May 27, 2020 (photo courtesy Colton Mckee)

By Chantal Wagner

Successful online programming for Redcliff Youth Centre

May 27, 2020 | 5:34 PM

The Redcliff Youth Centre is hoping to be part of phase two in the province’s relaunch plan in mid-June.

Program Coordinator Janae Ulrich says it’s been a challenging time for a lot of different agencies and organizations.

But they’ve made the most of with online programs and also doing some renovations at the centre to extend capacity.

They switched to an online focus over the last few months.

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Ulrich says it has been difficult but rewarding at the same time.

They have been able to reach out and have conversations with youth via social media, video chats, and over the phone.

“Sometimes when you’re face to face with a youth they tend to maybe, not always, but sometimes leave out certain situations because it’s hard to talk about things face to face. But when it’s over message, it’s a whole new world of communication and I think especially for youth that’s what they grew up with having instant access to social media right from an early age so it’s easy for them and nice for us.”

Ulrich says they have a meeting with their board of directors next week and will be discussing the possibility of resuming operations with rules and regulations in place.

They are in the early stages of a strategic plan.

Their indoor building capacity is currently 45 people, and public health rules would mean reduced capacity throughout the day.

She believes the youth centre would fall under the summer camp category and they have a big backyard for outdoor activities.

“We have the greatest summer programming which is so sad now that the pools and stuff are closed. But we have a really big backyard, fire pit area, patio, basketball and volleyball court. Or backyard was recently renovated last year so I know that the youth are super excited and they didn’t get much of an opportunity to enjoy it last year. So we’re really hoping with respect to social distancing that we can get good use out of our yard space this year.”

Ulrich says during the summer their hours are extended: Monday-Friday noon-10 pm.

Meantime, the Redcliff Youth Centre has partnered with Baba Cluck restaurant for a virtual fundraiser.

Proceeds will support programming at the centre.

Sunday, May 31 is the cut-off for orders.

More information on the fundraiser can be found on the Redcliff Youth Centre Facebook page.