CARE for Newcomers hosts “Learn to Skate” youth program in January

The informal program is offered free of charge to immigrants and refugees and all equipment is provided.

Beginning in 2012, the organization says the event was inspired by a newcomer student who wanted to learn how to skate.

“Many immigrant youth feel too embarrassed to attempt skating with their Canadian peers and this program gives them the space and time to practice with other youth who are also only beginning to learn. Each year the youth express how thankful they are to have been given the opportunity and how much fun they had,” the organization said in a statement.

The event also marks the kick-off of their weekly skating program “Friday Youth Skate Night”. Targeted to middle and high school aged youth, both newcomer and Canadian, the program is held at the Bower Place Community Association Rink (85 Boyce St) every Friday during the months of January to March from 5 – 8 p.m. In addition to skating, there are indoor games, a fire, and hot chocolate.

“This is a great opportunity for newcomer and Canadian youth to come together and have something fun and safe to do on Friday evenings after school,” said CARE representatives.

The organization says they are grateful to The City of Red Deer, RCMP, the Red Deer Vipers, Bower Place Community Association, Bower Ponds, Notre Dame High School and other community volunteers who helped with the event.

Formerly known as Central Alberta Refugee Effort (C.A.R.E.), CARE For Newcomers is a newcomer settlement agency based in Red Deer. For over 35 years. CARE has supported the settlement of newcomers by providing a variety of services and programs.

(Supplied)

(Care for Newcomers press release)

by rdnewsNOW staff

CARE for Newcomers hosts “Learn to Skate” youth program in January

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