February 2, 2017 - The City of Thunder Bay continues to support and develop youth programs and services throughout the City.

Today the City's Recreation and Culture Division hosted a Community Open House at the new Kinsmen Youth Site, 609 James St. N. This site is designated for youth ages 12 - 18 years, with many community partnerships also offering programming at the building.

"The building has been designed with feedback from youth, creating open, inviting, safe and comfortable spaces," said Kim Baskin, Program Supervisor - Children & Youth, City of Thunder Bay.  "Youth have been at the heart of the programming and will continue to be the driving force as their needs continue to change. We are thrilled to have many committed organizations showing interest in the space and working together to align goals and objectives moving forward."

The Recreation and Culture Division, as well as many youth serving organizations, have been collaborating to identify and improve opportunities for youth as part of the City's Youth Services Strategy and the recently adopted Recreation & Facilities Master Plan. 

The Kinsmen Youth Centre is now open Tuesday - Friday, 3:30 - 9 pm, and Saturdays from 1 - 5 pm.  Programming is based on youth needs including recreation, homework help, arts and cultural programming. The Centre welcomes new partners and programming ideas as the Centre continues to develop.

The Open House event also featured a family skate night hosted by Matawa Education and Cultural Programming by Thunder Bay Indian Friendship Centre. The Cultural programming offered by Thunder Bay Indian Friendship Centre continues Thursday evenings from 5 - 7 pm.

For more information on City of Thunder Bay Youth Programs, visit www.thunderbay.ca/youth 

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Contact:  Kim Baskin, Program Supervisor - Children & Youth, 625-2418, kbaskin@thunderbay.ca