Westsyde Watch group trying to engage youth

By MICHELE YOUNG/

NEWS/ COMMUNITY — Members of the Westsyde Watch are taking the African proverb, it takes a village to raise a child, and putting it into action.

The group, which started patrolling Westsyde streets last fall to reduce vandalism and graffiti, is starting up Friday night activities in May for youth between 13 and 17 years of age.

Steve Wade said Saturday the goal is to give the youths somewhere to go, as one of the biggest complaints watch members are hearing from kids they catch hanging around is there’s nothing for them to do. Some of the teens they find out at night are drinking, others are moving toward making bad choices.

While the first Friday nights for the West Kamloops Youth Program will focus on movies and snacks, Wade said the group wants to add options such as music lessons (he promises to teach guitar and Watch member Tyler Donovan is offering photography) or other choices from volunteers willing to pitch in.

“This is going to be a see-what-happens kind of thing,” he said.

There are rules. Participants must agree there is no judgement, no bullying and no alcohol or drugs.

While the watch just began in September, Wade said it has already had an impact. Graffiti and vandalism have dropped by half in Centennial Park.

The program is being held at The Hamlets. Although it might seem odd to hold a youth program at a seniors’ residence, Wade noted that there’s a separate entrance to the grand hall space that’s being donated for use. There’s room for at least 30, so everyone is welcome, he said.

The community is already starting to pitch in. Cooper’s Foods is providing popcorn, pop and water for the movie nights. Wade is scrounging up the 95-inch screen and electronics and is hoping someone will donate money for the movies, which will be age appropriate.

The film nights start May 2.

Other donations are welcomed  by the watch, which can be found on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/westsyde.neighborhoodwatch?fref=ts, or contact Wade or Donovan at steve@westkamwatch.ca or tyler@westkamwatch.ca.