The Estevan Public Youth Centre (EPYC) is preparing for a soft-reopening this Thursday, January 9, 2025, with a special community awareness event to welcome youth and their families.
Michelle Walsh, Chair of the Board of Directors with EPYC, said, “We ended off our year working really hard to bring in some new staff to get some consistent programming coming in. This event is not just about reopening but also about making the community more aware of what EPYC offers for youth aged 11 to 17.”
The event, running from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the EPYC facility, will feature a variety of activities for attendees. Walsh explained, “We have some really special guests. We’ve invited the city, a couple of community members who have helped us make an impact with EPYC, and of course, we are going to have our local Bruins coming in to do a special Bruins Olympics event.”
Parents are also encouraged to attend, with opportunities to learn more about the centre’s programs and get involved. Walsh added, “As always, we’re looking for volunteers and board members. I still hear a lot of, ‘Where is EPYC? What does EPYC do?’ We really want to make the community aware this year of the impact we’re having on our youth.”
For hockey lovers, the Bruins Olympics event will include activities such as street hockey, weather permitting. Walsh said, “Inside, we’re going to have a ton of games, hot chocolate, baking, and snacks. It’s really going to be a fun night. It’s a school night, so it’s only 5:30 to 8:30, but it’s definitely going to be a lot of fun for anyone who comes to check it out.”
EPYC aims to engage more youth through its programming and plans to expand its social media presence on platforms like Instagram and Snapchat. For now, updates and information can be found on their Facebook page.