Biiwaase’aa Offers Support to Youth in Thunder Bay
THUNDER BAY – LIVING – The Biiwaase’aa Program is a program run in Thunder Bay Ontario that is having a positive impact on Aboriginal youth in elementary Schools in Thunder Bay. Executive Director Tammy Bobyk and Director of Maamaawisiiwin Educational Resource Centre talk with NetNewsledger on the program, the goals, the hopes and the path forward with Youth in Northwestern Ontario.
Youth who are engaged in the program are finding, according to the research to have better marks, better attendance and greater academic success.
The cost of the program, at $2700 per student per year is having a positive impact on both the students, but also the community as well.
Getting youth through school and helping to build the base for success is key. The long-term effect on the students is very positive.
The program has goals of expanding the success – a study done on the program states that the program counters the problems faced by youth in our community.
Getting students to stay in school, and to focus on their education is cheaper and far more effective than the more negative alternatives.
Registration forms are available through the Youth Outreach Worker and at each School location in the main office. The after-school programs are also open to all children and youth in the neighbourhood, even if they do not attend one of our seven schools. For more information please contact Biwaase’aa at 623-0500.www.shkoday.com
