MESSAGE FROM THE ADVISOR:

Welcome to the website for the Northumberland Youth Advisory Council. As advisor and program coordinator I have provided assistance and guidance since the inception of the organization. NYAC was the result of a steering committee consisting of many community members, young and old, coming together to help empower and engage Northumberland’s young people. With the generous support of Northumberland County Council and the Northumberland CFDC as well as many others we have come a long way in a few short years. We have accomplished much, but there is still much to be done, so many opportunities around the corner to showcase and inspire our young people.

I have been privileged to work with so many dynamic, motivated youth over the past few years. Some of the highlights that stand out for me are the Opportunities Expo’s we held to bring together young people to learn about volunteer, educational and career opportunities and our Youth Cares projects. I have seen many young people step outside their comfort zone, take on new challenges, and give back to their communities all with the common goal of wanting to make a difference. Through our partnerships with both local groups and other organizations such as The Ontario Rural Council, which I sat on as a member of the Rural Youth Advisory Working Group, The Northumberland Youth Advisory Council has been recognized for its work and we are often called on to share our experiences, successes and challenges with other communities.

I have to thank past chairs and founding board members Chris Berrigan and Peter Cleary for their boundless energy and selfless commitment to the Youth Council and to their community. NYAC would never have been able to achieve the things it has without their vision, leadership and dedication in striving to assist youth to make an impact and have their voices heard in Northumberland County. They have helped to build a solid foundation as the torch is passed on to each successive group of emerging community leaders.

I look forward to the coming months and working with Amy Arthur, our new chair, as well as many new council members. Can’t wait to see what they have in store as they live the phrase “Think global … Act local.” If you have any questions or want to get involved please call me at 905.372.8315, Ext.225 or email me at jamie.simmons@northumberlandcfdc.ca

Jamie Simmons