Local Youth Program to Participate in Scotiabank Charity Challenge
Every Friday night, the Village Church in Ormstown hosts Teen Drop-In from 7-10:00 P.M., made possible by non-profit organization Montreal Youth Unlimited (MYU)-Chateauguay Valley ministries.
The program, which has been underway for the past six months, offers up extracurricular activities to the community’s youth. Come spring, the group will participate in Montreal’s Scotiabank Charity Challenge to help raise funds for their local program. Taking place April 22-23rd at Park Jean Drapeau, the run offers participants the option of running or walking 5km, 10km, or 21km—as a way for local charities to raise funds. The Chateauguay Valley team has set a goal of $5,000 for themselves—they are hoping to raise monies to improve their program, an essential outlet for many of the youth in the community.
“On Friday night, we transform the basement of the church into a comfortable place for teens to come and hang out with friends. There are cozy corners with couches. There are board games, foosball, air hockey, and a pool table. There is a snack bar, music, and often freshly baked cookies. Sometimes we will organize fun activities for the night, but most of the time it’s just a neat place to hang out,” says Katie McKay, who serves as Chateauguay Valley’s Ministry Coordinator.
“As part of MYU, we see the hope and potential in every young person. Our goal is to provide community-based programs that come alongside the youth of the Valley to help them reach their full life potential. Every teen that comes through the doors has a story; a past and a future, filled with ups and downs. The best thing about this program is getting to know the teens, hearing their stories, and being able to take the time to really listen,” explains McKay.
In addition to the Teen Drop-in program, the MYU-Chateauguay Valley branch also works with the local churches to help them with their youth groups and events. The group works towards bringing children to camps and conferences, planning day trips, as well as spending time getting to know the teens individually. McKay adds that the group hopes to offer homework help and life skills programs to local youth.
To run in the Scotiabank Charity Challenge on behalf of the group or to donate, visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/879241408880285/ and follow the link on that page. Be sure to donate to the team “Our Run For Youth” if you would like your contribution to go towards the Chateauguay Valley youth programs. For more information, please contact Katie McKay via katie.mckay@jslmontreal.org or 514-778-4134.