Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall, left, and I C Youth Co-ordinator Rhonda Mason inspecting progress on the new Youth Support Centre in Inverell.
Tuesday, 10 November 2020
INVERELL is only months away from having its own dedicated youth support centre, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall last week calling in to inspect progress on the final stages of the I C Youth development in Vivian Street.
A $208,820 State Government grant has transformed a large, disused industrial building in the CBD into a safe, friendly youth hang-out.
“When I first visited I C Youth’s office in 2019 it was just an empty shed, now it is on the way to being a stimulating education space brimming with opportunity,” Mr Marshall said.
“Since the grant was announced in May the committee has really rolled up its sleeves, already installing internal walls to divide the large space into individual work areas and putting in a new ceiling and exterior wall sheeting.
“Internally, lots of work has also been done to update power and plumbing, to accommodate for new kitchen and bathroom amenities.
“This initiative is a great outcome for Inverell, realising a dream of local community leaders to reduce issues like youth homelessness, mental health and drug and alcohol abuse.
“I can’t wait to see the positive benefits that result from the early intervention programs run out of this space, when it officially opens in January 2021.”
I C Youth also received funding to assist with three years of basic operational costs, with $71,280 going towards electricity bills, rent and rates.
Mr Marshall said it was a credit to I C Youth Co-ordinator Rhonda Mason, and her team, that some support programs were already being run before the project was complete.
“I C Youth’s volunteers have wasted no time getting the show up and running with Tuesday afternoon homework and assignment help and free tutoring for high school students underway,” he said.
“Youth Insearch Support Group, which is an early intervention counselling and mentoring program has restarted as well.
“It is so important for the future success of Inverell that its young people have a safe space where they can study, take part in leadership programs and go to if they need support with stress and their mental health.
“I encourage young people and their parents to reach out and visit the centre to see what services could assist them.”
I C Youth can be contacted on email at icyouthcentre@gmail.com