GOVERNMENT FUNDS PROGRAM TO DEVELOP SKILLS OF YOUTH LEADERS

Hundreds of youth leaders will learn how to help their peers cope with bullies and harassment through a new prevention program entitled "Beyond the Hurt."

"Harassment and bullying are not acceptable, and we want to help our young people cope with this behaviour within the schoolyards and in our communities," Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Joanne Crofford said. "The program will develop the leadership skills necessary to teach others how to address these problems."

The provincial government will provide $5,662 toward the program through the Community Initiatives Fund (CIF). The Regina Branch of the Canadian Red Cross Society will work with youth advisory groups, educators and experts to deliver the program.

"Beyond the Hurt" will teach 400 youth, 12 to 14 years old, how to reduce the damaging effects of bullying and harassment. The program will also teach parents and educators how to foster, support and maintain safe environments for young people.

The program will be launched as a pilot project in three Regina schools. Training for the pilot will be completed by November.

"The 400 youth who will hear this message are capable of changing behaviours and understanding the complexities of the issues. They are our future caregivers, leaders and parents," RespectED Coordinator for Southern Saskatchewan Lisa Smith said. "The CIF funds will help us to achieve the goal of helping the young people and communities of Saskatchewan."

The provincial government established the CIF in 1997 to return a portion of casino profits to communities. Since its inception, the fund has provided more than 2,200 community groups with a total of almost $14.3 million.

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For More Information, Contact:

Ben Tingley Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306)787-2047