Building Community at New Hope Youth Centre

A place where they are met with a nod, a familiar face saying, “Hey, we’re glad you’re here.”

Three nights a week, the Centre hums with life. There are games, laughter, and the kind of conversations that stretch beyond the four walls of the room. And now, on Thursdays, there’s a new offering at New Hope Fellowship Church, welcoming those who want to listen, learn, and grow in their faith through Bible studies.

The volunteers are at the core of the Youth Centre’s operations. Some have been there for years. Others are just finding their footing, stepping forward, offering their time and talents to the Centre. One of the newest volunteers led a full-day hike—taking youth out into nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

This past summer, the Centre expanded on its activities through camps and leadership programs. Now, the challenge is making sure this growth continues. The high school lunch drop-in is expanding too, from three days a week to five, because for some, a warm meal and a welcoming space can change the course of an entire day at school.

And more exciting news: a group of local business leaders gifted the Centre a full-scale beekeeping operation! It is a way for youth to work with their hands, to care for something small but significant, and to see the direct result of their efforts. A volunteer has stepped up to lead the project, guiding young people through the process of tending the hives, harvesting, and selling the honey in the community. It’s work that requires patience, care, and respect—lessons that stretch far beyond the beekeeping season.

This is what New Hope Youth Centre is about. Creating space. Listening. Meeting young people where they are and walking alongside them as they find their way forward.

Because when you give a young person a place where they feel safe, where they feel home—

They stay.
They grow.
And one day, when the time is right, they lead.

Prayer Requests:

• Pray for the safety, stability, and emotional well-being of the First Nations youth as many of them face challenges in their personal lives.
• Pray that God would open doors to new funding sources for staff salaries and the Centre’s ongoing programs.
• Pray for discernment in selecting a new program staff member who will be passionate about the ministry’s mission.