Planet Youth is still in orbit, and engaging in efforts to form a Youth Wellness Hub in Lanark County.
The group, advocating a proactive Icelandic model of reinforcing positive behaviours, met with Lanark’s Community Services Committee recently, whereafter Lanark County Council directed staff to meet with both Planet Youth Lanark County (PYLC) and Open Doors for Lanark Children and Youth (ODLCY) to prepare a recommendation about how the County can get involved.
An integrated youth service hub could include core services for 12- to 25-year-olds such as social recreation, mental health, peer support, substance use, primary health, education, training and social services.
PYLC Steering Committee Chair David Somppi says his group is aiming to submit a proposal for three years of funding for intervention implementation and evaluation.
He’s urging all Lanark County Youth Centres to join the collaboration.
County Staff will meet with PYLC and ODLCY before bringing a recommendation about supportive measures back to council.
By Rick Stow