The new Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Youth Centre in Dawson is now open and will give local youth ages 12 to 25 the tools and space to pursue traditional activities, education and wellness.
Dawson has many venues for mature adults to socialize but has very limited options for youth. The 3,000 square foot building was designed specifically for Dawson’s youth. The new youth centre, located on 2nd Avenue in downtown Dawson, between Princess and Queen Street, will encourage healthy living and provide opportunities for positive youth development.
Joint federal, territorial, and First Nations funding through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program supported the design and construction of the new youth centre. The Government of Canada provided $1,458,750, the Government of Yukon provided $486,250 and the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation provided $50,000 in funding towards the project.
I offer my sincere congratulations to Chief Roberta Joseph and the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation for the grand opening of their new community youth centre. The new facility will provide a culturally rich space for children to learn and grow for many years and promote a sense of belonging in the community.
Member of Parliament for the Yukon Brendan Hanley
The new youth centre for Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation youth will provide a valuable space for the young people in the City of Dawson. The safety and wellbeing of Yukoners is a top priority and infrastructure like this, grounded in cultural practices, is vital to that wellbeing and safety. Thank you to all those who contributed to making this youth centre a reality and ensuring it will serve youth now and in the future.
Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn
Investing in the youth in our community is critically important. I applaud the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Youth Council for mandating this key priority. The new centre offers adequate services in culture and education and a safe place for the youth to gather. Our Council acknowledges all who contributed to the planning and development of the centre and achieving this milestone, including funders, staff, youth and contractors.
Chief of Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation Roberta Joseph
The youth centre was funded through federal, territorial and First Nations governments.
Through the Investing in Canada plan, the Government of Canada is investing more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes and Canada’s rural and northern communities.
Renee Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca
Breagha Fraser
Communications, Community Services
867-332-1237
breagha.fraser@yukon.ca
Wayne Potoroka
Communications and Policy, Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Government
867-993-7100 ext. 108
wayne.potoroka@trondek.ca