Janet Welham grew up in Oak Bay, but as a teen there was never a week-long series of events dedicated to kids her age. But for the past five years Welham, now 30, has helped change that situation.
For National Teen Week, May 1 to 7, as Oak Bay Recreation’s sports co-ordinator, Welham has organized a full day of activities at Oak Bay’s Bee Street recreation centre on May 5.
With Oak Bay High’s Interact service club she’s helped pull together a scavenger hunt based on the popular Hunger Games book and movie, as well as a family-friendly movie night.
The Hunger Games fundraiser, with proceeds going to Rabbits for Rwanda, takes place at the Oak Bay teen centre from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. To enter a team of two, it costs $10. The movie night starts at 7 p.m. in Oak Bay High’s west auditorium. Tickets are $3, with proceeds going to the Malawi School for Girls.
“I think it’s important to have youth week because it showcases and recognizes youth in the community in many different ways through sporting activities, art and volunteering,” Welham said about why sports co-ordinators across the region chose four years ago to start the annual celebration.
Last Wednesday, Oak Bay Rec hosted the YES (Youth Exceptional Star) Awards that honours talented youth or those who have overcome hurdles in their lives.
On Sunday teens under age 18 can enjoy free drop-in all-day skating, swimming and fitness or pay just $2 for a round of golf at Henderson.
For more information about Youth Week events, contact your local recreation centre.
In Oak Bay, email leannabedell@gmail.com for more information.