February 25, 2008
Monday

Ketchikan, Alaska - "There's Nothing to Do in Ketchikan, NOT!" was the theme of Ketchikan Youth Initiatives' first annual youth activity EXPO and potluck held on December 13th. Over 100 youth and adults attended to enjoy a potluck, browse the display tables at the Ted Ferry Center, and talk with representatives from the various activities.

Photo by Kelly Johnson Photo by Kelly Johnson

According to information provided by KYI Youth Advocate Bobbie McCreary, among the local progarams present for the event were the Hot Shots Paintball League; T.A.G. (Teen Advisory Group - Library); Skateboarding; Boys and Girls Club; Tae Kwon Do; Youth Amateur Boxing; Caving; and Youth to Work program. McCreary said presentations were made by each program about the local activities in which youth can join and participate. A skill demonstration was also presented by the Ketchikan-based Tae Kwon Do Club.

Rob Skinner, owner of Skinner Sales & Service and President of the Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce, addressed the audience about how youth can approach local businesses for support for their activities.

Ketchikan Youth Initiatives was formed in 2005 to "empower Ketchikan by empowering our youth". After a year's work a paintball park was opened in May, 2006 with support from the Revilla Island Prevention Coalition, Cellular One, Cape Fox Corporation and untold numbers of community members who donated time, equipment and services to develop the site.

Last year, with the support of AmeriCorps' VISTA, a Youth to Work Job Readiness Program was launched in partnership with the Job Center and the Chamber of Commerce. The Youth to Work Job Readiness Program offers classes for youth between 14 and 24 years of age an opportunity to "bulk up their resume", take a 12 hour soft skills training course and complete a 4 to 6 week work experience program. According to information provided, there are two more Youth to Work Job Readiness classes scheduled this Spring. For more information call 228-3236.

KYI Youth Advocate Bobbie McCreary said currently a subcommittee is working on development of a covered skatepark for Ketchikan. She said the first step in the plan is to get land designated by the Borough.

McCreary said Ketchikan Youth Initiatives is working on a proposal to redevelop the Water Warehouse as a youth activity center run by youth and open to the community. McCreary said, "Give us a call at 225-2250 if you want to get involved in supporting KYI activities."

SitNews ©2008
Stories In The News
Ketchikan, Alaska

Articles & photographs that appear in SitNews may be protected by copyright and may not be reprinted without written permission from and payment of any required fees to the proper sources.