TEENS TO TACKLE ISSUES AT MAYOR'S YOUTH FORUM

Teens from every high school in the Central Okanagan will tackle
social issues among their peers during the second Mayor's Youth Forum.

Ten students from the seven private and public schools will meet Nov.
24 to discuss the results of a survey they conducted at their schools.

Forum co-ordinator Linda Abbott-Simons said the students chosen for
the task represent a "mix of cultures, needs and opinions."

"The focus is on social issues, mainly drugs, alcohol, crime and violence."

The students conducted the surveys last week.

Abbott-Simons said one of the goals of the survey is to determine if
area youth know what services are available to them and if they are
willing to use those services.

Before the forum, participating students will have the opportunity to
research social service agencies in the Central Okanagan, review the
services available and participate in mock scenarios, such as a drug
and alcohol assessment or a restorative justice circle, to better
understand the issues faced by their peers.

These experiences will form the basis for discussion at the forum,
which will also include youth speakers and sessions to foster
innovative solutions to current social issues. Participating students
will also tour Kelowna's youth centre.

On Dec. 4, the teens will make a presentation, complete with
recommendations, to Kelowna city council.