After school on Tuesdays can certainly be terrific for six to 12-year-olds who are looking for some fun things to do.
Terrific Tuesdays, a program for this age group which began last February is still going strong, said Annette Peck, program director of the Boys and Girls Club.
The program, held from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Peter Lougheed Community Centre began with more than 50 kids.
While the numbers have dwindled somewhat, the activities and events planned are ongoing and Peck encourages parents to check out the program for their children.
“We started the program to fill a need that existed in Rimbey and it really has gone over well.”
Tonight, Oct. 28, a Halloween party is planned for the Terrific Tuesday crowd and youngsters are encouraged to show up in their ‘trick or treat’ costumes and partake of some fun activities.
“There will be contests, games and prizes,” she said.
The Mid Week Mash Up teen program held on Wednesdays at the Blindman Youth Action Centre on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. has been a hit, as well.
“We have special contests, bring a friend night, free pizza nights,” said Peck. “There will be special games and contests for Halloween.”
Appliances to make healthy snacks have now been purchased through a grant donation for the teen program, so teens can expect to enjoy some cool snacks in the future.
“We really encourage the young people to give this program a try,” she said.
Jolene Naismith from Bentley is the coordinator for both programs. Adanna LaCoste is the program assistant for Terrific Tuesdays and volunteers include Cole Greenlees, Jordan Balan and Rowena Aitken. More volunteers are always welcome.
Depending on staffing, volunteers and sufficient funding, Thrilling Thursdays may be added to the after school schedule in 2015. Student leadership groups and a second teen drop in night may also be added.
“We want to be conservative in our growth, as our resources allow, based on the successful model of the Ponoka youth Centre which now offers 11 programs, six days a week.
A portion of the funding for the Boys and Girls Club comes from grants obtained through the Ponoka partnership, minimal registration fees and community donations.