Youth Week is nearly upon Wingecarribee Shire, and as always, a diverse program of FREE events has been put together in collaboration with our young people, for our local Young People. The program kicks off on Friday 12 April, 2024.
The Youth Week programs are funded by one-off, time limited NSW Government grants to NSW Local Councils (grant amounts range from $2,588 to $5,748). The funding is for youth participation and inclusion activities during April each year, for Youth Week. This years Youth Week theme is "Express. Empower. Get loud!" WSC Co-ordinator Community Development, Corinne Buxton said this is a great opportunity for young people to meet like-minded people and immerse themselves in activities that will get them inspired.
"Over the last few months, Wingecarribee Shire Council has been working with an incredible group of young people in our Shire's Youth Committee, to create Youth Week 2024 events," Corrine said.
"I'm thrilled to witness the impactful engagement and empowerment of our youth. These events not only provide a platform for our young people to express themselves but also foster a sense of belonging and connection within our community," she added.
"Through collaborative efforts, we're paving the way for a brighter future, where our youth are empowered to shape their own narratives and contribute positively to society."
The aim of the funding is to support NSW Local Councils to empower young people to design and deliver community activities and events, enabling them to:
- increase participation in youth-led and youth-driven community activities/events
- address and overcome barriers to participation
- participate in activities/events that strengthen their connection to their local communities
- be recognised and valued for their contributions
- learn a range of skills that strengthen their ability to participate in their local community and support future social and economic participation
- feel a sense of choice and control (self-determination) in their lives
- feel a sense of connection and belonging to their communities.
This program is administered by the NSW Government Department of Communities and Justice.
Youth Week 2024 Program Highlights.
Some of the events included this year for the Wingecarribee are:
- YouthFest 2024 – join us for a community cricket day with a jumping castle, free sausage sizzle and more! In partnership with Highlands Community Centres and Community Links Wellbeing.
- Italian Cooking Class – learn to prepare a delicious 3-course meal at The Community Cooking School
- Bush Walk & Picnic – join the Council's Bushcare team for a walk at Mansfield Reserve
- Movie Night (Godzilla x Kong) – sit back and relax while watching the latest Godzilla x Kong movie at Empire Cinema, Bowral
