Harper Government Invests in Aboriginal Youth in Regina

Regina, March 6, 2012 – Aboriginal youth in Regina will learn more about their culture and traditions, thanks in part to an investment from the Government of Canada. This was announced today by Tom Lukiwski, Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Member of Parliament (Regina–Lumsden–Lake Centre), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

Funding will support the Tomorrow’s Y’s Leaders project of the YMCA of Regina. This project promotes the involvement of Aboriginal youth in the community and allows them to build on their strengths in a safe and culturally relevant environment. Activities include cultural teachings, life skills training, mentorship and role-modelling, and community engagement.“Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest in important projects like Tomorrow’s Y’s Leaders,” said Minister Moore. “By supporting these initiatives, our Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen our economy and support our arts, culture, and heritage.”

“The YMCA of Regina plays an important role in the lives of so many people in the community,” said Mr. Lukiwski. “This project offers urban Aboriginal youth an opportunity to connect with their heritage and provides them with the necessary resources to build their self-confidence and self-esteem.”

“The YMCA of Regina works toward building a healthy community in a variety of ways,” said Randy Klassen, CEO of the YMCA of Regina. “Tomorrow’s Y’s Leaders is a positive program for youth and provides opportunities which are essential to promote self-esteem and youth engagement. The funding provided by Canadian Heritage is appreciated and helps build a stronger community.”

The YMCA of Regina provides programs and services to develop spirit, mind, and body. It is one of the main delivery agencies providing recreational programs and services specifically for youth.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $46,150 through Cultural Connections for Aboriginal Youth (CCAY) of the Department of Canadian Heritage’s Aboriginal Peoples’ Program. CCAY provides Aboriginal young people aged 10 to 24, living in urban settings across Canada, with programming that incorporates Aboriginal values, cultures, and traditional practices in projects and activities designed to improve their social, economic, and personal prospects and to strengthen their cultural identity.

For more information (media only), please contact:

Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788

Francine D. Lefebvre
Director of Regional Communications
Prairies and Northern Region
Canadian Heritage
204-983-4367
francine.lefebvre@pch.gc.ca

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca