Long-awaited Victor Harbor Youth Space to start construction
The City of Victor Harbor Youth Development team in partnership with the Encounter Centre are thrilled to announce a physical youth space for the township, after securing a Social Impact Grant from the Department of Human Services.
The Victor Harbor Youth Space will be located at the Encounter Centre, with an external location fitted out to deliver Council’s youth programs plus a casual drop-in space for young people to feel safe and supported in the community.
The build will begin in late March, with completion expected mid-year.
Youth Development Officer Daniel Western said the penultimate goal of the Victor Harbor Youth Space was to combat loneliness and isolation, while building social connections for Victor Harbor’s young people.
“Having a physical youth space also increases young people’s access to essential services such as Headspace, Mission Australia and Jobs Statewide, and to positive adult role models” he said.
“A youth space in Victor Harbor responds to a long-standing need identified by community feedback.”
Encounter Centre’s Manager of Operations Jan Oliver said the expansion made the Encounter Centre a space for the whole community.
“This partnership with Council is an exciting opportunity,” she said.
“We’re creating a safe and welcoming space here at the Encounter Centre, and we want that for our young people too.”
City of Victor Harbor Mayor Moira Jenkins lauded the project.
“Creating a centralised, physical space is essential in building a supportive community for young people in Victor Harbor,” she said.
“I’m thrilled for the City of Victor Harbor’s youth team and the Encounter Centre, with both being proactive in securing funding for this development.”
Programs facilitated by the Youth Development team will include arts and music programs, and life skills courses.