Youth Week
What is National Youth Week?
National Youth Week is an initiative that began in Canada in 1995. The goal of Youth Week is to celebrate youth, their achievements and their commitment to our communities. Youth Week also gives us an opportunity to recognize and give back to the youth who have given so much to our community through their volunteer efforts. National Youth Week is celebrated in Canada each year from May 1 - 7 and entails various activities and celebrations for youth of all ages.
Youth Week and the City of St. John's
The City of St. John's became an active supporter of National Youth Week in 2000, by offering a variety of events and activities for local youth. The focus has been on working with youth to plan and implement activities for the 12 to 18 year-old age group. Through its Recreation Division a variety of events designed to appeal to youth are offered. Events include art exhibit, swims, carnival and the Youth of the Year Awards presentation.
Youth Week also helps the youth within the community make connections with other youth and community partners that may have lasting benefits in the future. Taking part in National Youth Week also helps youth build on their social skills, confidence, creativity, and positive relationships. We invite you to embrace the spirit of Youth Week in St. John's and come out to participate in our many activities. As well, we encourage you to start Youth Week activities of your own to celebrate the youth of our great City.
The Youth Advisory Committee encourages ages 12-18 to celebrate Youth Week May 1-7 by coming out to these fun filled events. All events are FREE.
The City of St. John's Junior and Senior Youth of the Year Awards were developed by the Youth Advisory Committee and is open to St. John's residents between the ages of 12 to 18 years old. The Youth of the Year Awards are designed to honour young people in the city, who through their volunteer contributions, extracurricular activities and community involvement have helped to make St. John's a better place to live. The individuals nominated for this award are noted on by a board of their peers and community partners. Awards are presented during the Applause Awards event.
The Mayor will officially proclaim National Youth Week in the City of St. John’s at the weekly Council meeting.
Youth swim for free at the City of St. John's Paul Reynolds Community Centre and H.G.R. Mews Community Centre indoor pools.
Youth are invited to submit one or more pieces of original artwork to be displayed. Submissions can be presented in any form (ie. photography, paintings, sculptures, etc.) Pieces of art are received from a broad cross- section of the community, including numberous schools and community organizations.
Everyone is invited to attend an opening reception of the art exhibit produced by St. John's youth at the Wyatt Hall, City Hall. This reception is for all ages and free to attend for public. Live entertainment is provided by youth performers.
The art exhibit is on display for a week in celebration of National Youth Week where public can view for free.
Fill out the Youth Art Exhibit Submission Form and submit your piece of art with this form attached to Youth Services located at Paul Reynolds Community Centre, 35 Carrick Drive.
If you have any questions about Youth Week or want to get involved, please contact the Youth Services Fieldworker at 709-576-8630.