Quadra Village residents enjoy several street festivals and parties a year.
Volunteer hours are crucial, and in this village a hyperlocal youth program provides key resources.
Dubbed The Crew years ago, young people enrolled in the Quadra Village Community Centre pre-employment and life skills program offer time, energy and enthusiasm to pull off the parties – while learning.
“It encompasses any youth within Victoria who want to access this type of program, but most of our youth are living in the Hillside Quadra area,” said Amber Bell, youth programs coordinator. “For youth interested in getting jobs, we help them build a resume and cover letters through gaining life skills experience.”
The decades-old program starts in September and wraps in August each year, relying on the youth participating to build success, Bell explained.
When they get their first job, individuals who finished the program can walk in with some confidence and the skills and references to back it.
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“They get out of it what they put in,” Bell said.
And there’s plenty of opportunity for elbow grease. The program includes team-building initiatives and workshops once a week but the community event work is a highlight. The Crew is key in the planning and engaging of activities in events such as Quadra Village Day and the winter holiday dinner, Bell said.
Without them, Halloween wouldn’t have been much fun, according to the youth programs facilitator at Quadra Village Community Centre.
“We have a haunted house (and) carnival games that The Crew primarily run,” explained Olivia Reid. “It gives them a chance to volunteer and as well as work experience, they’re working in a busy environment and presenting themselves to others.”
Another big one is the “Last Minute” Holiday Market on Dec. 10. While Bell and Reid provide guidance, it’s entirely led by youth.
The market affords shoppers a chance to support both the young people and local artisans with all funds raised going back into the program.
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The “Last Minute” Holiday Market features refreshments, door prizes, music and an inclusive atmosphere.
Admission is $2 or a non-perishable food item. Those looking for more information can email Amber Bell at youthcoordinator@quadravillagecc.com.
The market is Dec. 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the community centre, 901 Kings Rd.
