MEDIA RELEASE
Middlesex Centre, March 18, 2022 – A new youth centre is set to open in Ilderton later this spring, thanks to a partnership between the Municipality of Middlesex Centre and the Boys and Girls Club of London (BGC London).
Located in the Ilderton Arena building, the youth centre will offer drop-in and specialized programming for those ages 9 to 18. While details of the operating hours, activities and services at the youth centre are being finalized, BGC London has already rolled out March Break and summer camps in Ilderton this year, along with baking, volleyball and theatre programs.
“Coming off the successful launch of our youth centre in Thorndale, we are excited to extend this type of programming to the Ilderton area,” says Chris Harvey, CEO of BGC London. “Our staff are ready to bring their programming knowledge and experience to youth in the community.”
Local youth identified a wide range of ideas and activities for the youth centre at an open house hosted by the Middlesex Centre Youth Advisory Committee, municipal staff, and BGC of London in November 2021. While some wanted to see the youth centre offer practical activities like homework help and life skills like cooking, others wanted to see a safe and fun place to hang-out and play games with friends.
“Through surveys and discussions we’ve heard from Ilderton parents and residents that more local programming for youth is needed,” says Scott Mairs, Director of Community Services for Middlesex Centre. “We are pleased to partner with BGC London to offer not only a drop-in youth centre, but a variety of recreational programs that currently are not available in the community.”
The youth centre will operate on an annual membership basis, with specialized programs and camps requiring additional fees. Subsidized fees are available to ensure all youth can take part.
Youth centre program information is available from BGC London (bgclondon.ca) and the Municipality of Middlesex Centre (middlesexcentre.ca/youth or 519-601-8022 ext 5106).
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Media Contact:
Heather Kepran
Communications Specialist, Municipality of Middlesex Centre