Little Salmon Carmacks First Nation youth are on the brink of finally having a dedicated space of their own after eagerly awaiting its arrival for years. The construction of a new youth center within the community is set to be completed by the upcoming spring season.
Nina Dickson, the assistant director of health and wellness for Little Salmon Carmacks First Nation, expressed her immense joy for the youth as she initiated this endeavor back in 2023 after securing funding through Jordan’s Principle. Youth Councillor Chanel Johnnie emphasized the significance of providing a space exclusively for the youth, which is currently lacking in the community. The new youth center aims to bridge this gap and cater specifically to the needs and interests of the youth.
The involvement of the youth in the project from its inception ensures that the center will encompass all the elements they envisioned. Dickson highlighted the importance of including the youth in the planning process, acknowledging that their input is invaluable in shaping the center according to their desires.
Chief Russel Blackjack emphasized that the youth center will not only provide recreational activities but also serve as a platform for language learning, particularly Northern Tutchone, aiming to revive and preserve their traditional language and culture. The youth will not only contribute to the design but will also participate in the construction process, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the center.
The center will feature various facilities, including a woodshop, space for metalworking, art making, and a movie theatre, along with life skills programs and naloxone training. The youth will be actively engaged in the naming process of the center, further empowering them and reinforcing the message that their ideas and aspirations hold significance.
The anticipated official opening of the center next summer is expected to signify to the youth in the community that their voices are heard and their future is valued. This initiative underscores the importance of providing a dedicated space where the youth can thrive and feel supported.
