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Youth Friendly Community: In 2005, the City of Pickering was declared a "Youth Friendly Community" and received recognition from Play Works - The Ontario Partnership for Active Youth for its outstanding youth programs and initiatives. Play Works evaluated participants through 15 different youth friendly criteria, such as options for play, youth recognition, leadership development, youth volunteerism, adult champions and supporting youth events. The evaluation committee was comprised of youth, community leaders and service providers. Ultimately, Pickering is one of only nine municipalities in the entire province to have received this coveted distinction.
Mayor Dave Ryan and Chief Administrative Officer Tom Quinn were on hand at the Velocity Youth Centre in Burlington to accept the award on behalf of Council and City staff. "I am very proud that the City of Pickering is recognized as a municipal leader in youth friendly programs, events and initiatives," said Mayor Ryan. "Investing in our youth today helps secure a more promising tomorrow. And by nurturing and developing our youth, we are building a more dynamic, cohesive and strong community, which helps the City of Pickering remain one of the best places in Canada to live, work and play." In addition to offering two youth centres, 20 different weekly free teen programs and over 10 annual free teen events, the City of Pickering has developed and implemented a highly acclaimed Youth Business Plan. It has also created a youth council to provide young residents with a genuine voice in planning and organizing the types of events and activities that are meaningful to them. The City of Pickering's model of youth leisure service delivery is recognized for its collaborative approach, comprehensiveness and community-minded focus. Consequently, the City is currently mentoring other communities that are looking to emulate its highly successful Youth Business Plan and strategy.
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