The Hinton Youth Initiatives Project has a strong concentration on Life Skills and Wellness for youth between the ages of 10 and 24, with a focus on youth between 12 to 18, leadership opportunities available for young adults between 19 and 24, and activity instruction open to experienced youth between 25-29. The Initiatives provides a balance of social and peer activities, Aboriginal cultural, edu
cation enhancement, leadership development, neighbourhood engagement, and recreation programs that encourage and support youth to continue and complete their education, reduce and avoid drug and alcohol use, maintain healthy relationships with themselves, their community and their environment, and finds ways for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal youth to connect together. With the knowledge and skills gained in each activity, the participants will become positive youth and active community role models and become successful in achieving their goals. The Life Skills and Wellness focus ensures that they will develop all aspects of their varied and busy lives, creating a balance between their own emotional, physical and spiritual selves, as well as among their peers, Elders and those that they mentor. The projects run between April 1 to March 31, the majority happening after school, some weekend projects scheduled and shorter term projects are spread out through the year. Afternoon sessions allow the youth to unwind from school and shift to another activity that complements their formal education, such as peer homework support or educational games, and participate in activities that have physical or creative output, such as crafts, outdoor recreation or organized sports. Weekend sessions are fuller days to take advantage of the wilderness and cultural aspects that surround Hinton, such as community events and non-competitive outdoor activities. The calendars reflect the desire of the youth and aid to promote their abilities and confidence, and teach them skills that they will carry with them into adulthood, and that they would not normally learn in school or at home.
