Aboriginal Next Steps: Prince George

Prince George

Youth gathered in the Prince George Native Friendship Centre on October 6, 2008. They chose to focus on 1) Substance Use & Abuse; 2) Physical & Emotional Health and 3) Marginalized (street-involved) youth.

Even though they were our largest group and many of the youth did not know each other, they worked very well together to get their films completed. The level of inclusiveness was reflected in their comprehensive Actions Plans, which entailed city wide plans that included safe / crisis places for youth; more cultural activities, community outreach, and job training.

The Film Premiere & Community Dialogue night was held at the Prince Geroge Native Friendship Centre.

Inspired by the information on protective factors and the research evidence that indicates youth are making healthier decisions, this group discussion focused on creating safe environments for youth. They were surprised to find that, not only has overall illegal drug use declined among Aboriginal youth, but also, that Aboriginal youth were significantly less likely to have ever used drugs than five years ago. Although marijuana use has increased, nearly half (47%) of Aboriginal youth have never used marijuana. 

What might happen to those who choose to smoke?  Watch their film to find out.

McCreary and other research has identified protective factors that increase the likelihood of healthy youth development. Some studies reveal that protective factors reduce the likelihood that young people will engage in risky behaviours or experience negative outcomes, even in the presence of risk factors, such as depression or substance use. The most significant factors for vulnerable teens are positive relationships in key settings:

• Connectedness to their families and people at school
• Having a family member they can talk to about problems
• Having friends with healthy attitudes towards risky behaviours

Positive, supportive relationships are a key determinant of health among all age groups. Relationships with family and friends are particularly important for adolescents. In their film, this group encourages us to think twice about risky behaviours.

Watch their film "Harm Reduction"

Research to Action Plan:

• If we had up to $5000, our activity/project would be A youth centre.
• Describe what you would do...Pool, video game night, computers, weight lifting, sports, movie nights, workshops, youth workers, youth council, hang out space, 24 hour access, music, dances, food, graffiti wall, 12-21 age group, crisis beds, volunteer outreach 24/7




Group 3: Marginalized / Street Involved Youth

This group designed their action plan to create a youth-friendly space with activities for youth to feel safe, build friendship and connect with others. Their film highlights the importance of having supportive friends with positive social values, and that feeling connected to and being accepted by communities can influence youth to make healthy decisions. 

Watch their film to see the outcomes of the choices made by the fictional characters, John and Jim.

Research to Action Plan: Our community goal is... Activities for youth. If we had up to $5000, our activity/project would be Community centre. Describe what you would do... More work experience, workshops, volunteering, training, free activities, food & refreshments, more cultural involvement (Elders), self care, more positive role models, youth action!. "Ghetto Angel" Nikita Joseph Sabina Haskell Robert Sam Maxine Sam Pierre John Theresa Indyasam