County youth invited to Awaken the Force

Young people in Prince Edward County are being invited to discuss their future later this month.

Homes, transporation and jobs are just a few of the subjects that may be discussed at the youth-focused Future Forum 2016 – a talk/brainstorming event hosted by Prince Edward County councillor Lenny Epstein with residents Hilary Fennell, Sami Lester, Rachael Tracey and Stephanie Bell.

“We want to get youth and young people together (anyone 30 and under) to talk about the challenges/difficulties of living in the County and to brainstorm what we can do to begin to solve these issues,” said Lester. “This is a chance for youth and young people to share thoughts! The agenda (the word being used loosely) will be set by young people.”

Adults (over age 30) are invited, but are asked to just listen and observe until the meeting’s end.

Lester created a poll on the event’s Facebook page which shows an array of concerns faced by young people living in the County today including employment, youth “owned” spaces and being able to afford land.

Other concerns are places for 20-somethings to “hang out and meet people besides a bar,” access to farm markets, community gardens.

The event is set for Monday, March 21, at 7 p.m. in the upstairs rooms at Books & Company, 289 Main Street, Picton. The event is free of charge to attend, Pizza and snacks are to be served.