Youth in Milang and its surrounds will now have access to regular social, recreational, and sports activities through a weekly after-school program held at the new Milang Youth Hub, which debuted on Sunday.
While a range of local social opportunities are available for adults in Milang, little to no after-school or weekend youth activities occur, with a lack of public transport making it difficult for kids to travel to activities held in the neighbouring townships.
That’s why the Milang and District Community Association partnered with Alexandrina Council, Reclink Australia, and the Local Drug Action Team on an after-school program that aims to increase health, personal development, social connection, and inclusion among Alexandrina’s youth by holding regular activities at the new Youth Hub on Paddlesteamer Drive.
“As a council, we are really proud to be supporting the development and resourcing of this youth program,” Council CEO, Nigel Morris, said.
“Equity of access is challenging in a large regional area such as Alexandrina.
“Council has received ongoing feedback that emphasises the need for activities for Milang’s youth, and this program is a step towards ensuring young people feel connected and valued in their community.”
A Summer Fun Day was held on Sunday at the Milang Institute to launch the program, and invite young people and their families to learn more about the hub and get a taste of the activities on offer.
Community members enjoyed laser skirmish, water bomb games, table tennis, art activities and VR games, and a gold coin donation barbecue lunch.
The youth program will officially kick off tomorrow from 4.30 to 6pm, and continue every Friday during the school term.
The first few sessions will be held at the Milang Institute before moving over to the Milang Youth Hub once final preparations have been made.
“Like Nelson Mandela, I believe sport and recreation have the power to change the world and unite people – it speaks to youth in a language they understand,” Reclink State Manager, Andy Asser, said.
“I’ve worked with Reclink for over 20 years now, and I’ve personally seen how sport, art, and recreation can engage and support people, and in some cases, transform their lives.
“This initiative has the potential to do exactly that for our young people here in Milang, and have positive impacts on their wellbeing for years to come.”
For more information, contact the Reclink Youth Activities Co-ordinator on 0432 304 166 or by email at (lyall.willis@reclink.org).
Anyone aged 19 or over who is interested in volunteering their time, who have or would like to gain skills/experience in sport, recreation and community services, or would like to support this project in any way, contact Milang Old School House Community Centre (MOSHCCC) on 8537 0687 or visit (https://moshcc.com.au/2023/01/10/youth-volunteers/).
