Coordinator of Rec Services, Colleen Bush, organized the local YMCA World Challenge 2014

Prince George, BC – Members of the YMCA of Northern BC did their part to stand up for youth empowerment today, using their trip to the gym facilities on Massey Drive to sign a declaration supporting young people.

As part of a worldwide movement to amplify the voices of young people, YMCA's around the globe are asking members to sign a declaration addressed to leaders of communities, governments, and the United Nations, stating, 'I stand up for young people and I want their voice to be heard'.

Last year, more than 1,000 youth took part in programs at the YMCA of Northern BC and 327 children were cared for through the Y's childcare services.

While Y programming and services for youth varies greatly, depending on where you are in the world, Colleen Bush, says research by the World Alliance of YMCAs found that youth empowerment was always at the core.  "So giving youth a safe space – that could be a program, a building, a social media platform," says the local Coordinator of Recreation Services.  "But a safe place to express themselves – to learn, to develop knowledge and skills, and to be able to put them to use."

Bush says the 2nd global challenge has gone well locally, "It's been a good day – we've collected quite a few signatures so far, and people are really happy to sign as soon as they hear it's about youth empowerment, saying 'That's important.'"

For those not able make it down to the Y, the declaration can be signed electronically, by clicking here.