KIRRIE YOUTH PROJECT A LEADER IN ITS FIELD
AN innovative Kirriemuir youth project - which caters for between 60 and 90 twelve to 18-year-olds - has been described as a leader in its field.
The Friday Nite Project, run at Webster's Sports Centre by the Volunteer Centre Angus in partnership with other agencies, was lauded at a national Focus on Alcohol conference in Glasgow for its "modern approach to youth work."
Volunteer Centre Angus manager Gary Malone explains that the Friday Nite Project, established last autumn, is unique in that it utilises a venue that is otherwise not used much on a Friday evening, it is run by people who want to put themselves forward for volunteer work and it is supported by agencies and businesses which get involved by offering invaluable expertise.
"We have the nucleus of a good community engaging with young people about life, health and happiness," adds Mr Malone.
"The activities on Friday nights are based on what the young people want to do. They are wide-ranging - from making healthy eating meals to fitness work-outs, and including games, drama and dance.
"The local fire service and police are involved, while hairdressers, other local business people and talented individuals are coming along, getting involved in developing a range of skills and building dialogues with local young people."
Mr Malone is confident about the future of the project and explains that there are moves afoot to establish similar projects in other Angus towns.
"Whilst there have been some suggestions around the funding for the Friday Nite Project, the Volunteer Centre is confident that this project will run for another year and is seeking to secure funding for this purpose.
"One thing that we can confirm is that it will definitely run up to the school holidays and arrangements are being made for another year thereafter.
"Arbroath has a similar project operating from the Saltire Centre while the Forfar Planning Partnership is looking to establish a similar project for young people in the county town.
"There are a number of projects - based on different models - operating in Angus, with a lot of action around schools.
"Here in Angus we have the highest level of young people in Scotland offering themselves as volunteers, while we have some of the most innovative partnerships with schools."
Mr Malone goes on to explain that, in Kirriemuir, the Friday Nite Project has led to a wider volunteering role in the area.
"Young people have been involved in tree planting, garden make-overs and litter-picks - many being introduced to the Millennium Volunteering Award scheme.
"This recognises volunteering, with certificates awarded for 50, 100 and 200 hours of volunteering, and these certificates are now being recognised by further education establishments and employers when presented as part of a CV."
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Sunday 05 February 2012
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