Created in 1998, the mission of the Youth First committee is to promote and support positive youth development through the integration of the 40 Developmental Assets®. The committee works to promote the “good stuff” young people need to grow up healthy, make positive choices and be resilient in tough circumstances.
Who is involved?
The United Way Youth First Committee is made up of representatives from community organizations, including local municipalities, Anglophone East School District and District scolaire francophone sud, government, local and provincial youth-serving agencies, the faith community, RCMP Community Policing, and United Way.
Main Initiatives of the Youth First Committee
- Knowledge is power: since 1998, the Youth First committee conducted four surveys of more than 8,000 youth in our community. This information gave us a better of understanding of youth and their needs. Now, Youth First works hand in hand with the New Brunswick Health Council who can provide detailed information about the resiliency of youth, especially the protective factors that help them thrive. You can find information on their updated Community profiles.
- Training and Workshops. Youth First offers a space for partners in our community to learn through workshops and presentations, and to discuss current trends. Recent examples include a workshop on Child Rights; a presentation by the New Brunswick Health Council on the Wellness survey results for our region; an update on the progress of the rollout of Integrated Service Delivery (ISD).
- Live Directory. Monthly meetings of Youth First provides an in-person sharing of information between members on upcoming activities, events, and programs which leads to better opportunities for collaboration and partnership. Members also receive regular announcements through the Youth First distribution list.
