About Us.
Established in 1979, The Cool Aid Society of Grande Prairie stands as a beacon for positive youth development and has evolved over the years to an amazing Youth Centre, ready to help your youths on their journey to Adulthood with amazing and innovative ways to mentor youth and help families through Afterschool care and Pre-Teen/ Teen hang outs to speakers, resources, and mental health aid.
With a rich history spanning over four decades, our commitment to nurturing the potential of youth aged 5 to 18 has only strengthened.
We operate on the understanding that youth centers play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of young individuals. Numerous studies highlight the profound impact that youth engagement and participation in such centers have on various aspects of their well-being, and we focus on ensuring that is showcased in everything that we do at Cool Aid Society.
Through a combination of carefully selected times along with curated and innovative curriculum, we offer no-cost after-school youth programs and no-cost evening pre-teen and teen programs through reserved booking and drop-ins, along with Paid Programming for Professional Days (PD Days) or Day Camps and Weekly Seasonal Breaks, Spring Break, Summer Break, and Winter Break.
We prioritize inclusivity with our youths ensuring that every youth can use our services regardless of any incumbrances or issues youth or families face we strive to ensure you can join Cool Aid Society's programs. We're supported by significant funding from municipal, provincial and federally awarded contracts through applied Funding and Grant programs, allowing us to offer these programs at either no-cost or minimal costs to families.
Our Commitment and Approach: Fueled by the understanding of youth centers' profound impact on well-being, we prioritize showcasing this in everything we do at Cool Aid Society. Our commitment to nurturing the potential of youth aged 5 to 18 has only strengthened over the years by offering safe and clean facilities, engaging items and games at our facilities, monthly field trips, more programs, more age groups, and expanding what we're able to bring to the center to help the youths.
Inclusive Programs and Accessibility: Through carefully selected times and innovative curriculum, we provide no-cost after-school and evening programs. Prioritizing inclusivity, we ensure that every youth, regardless of challenges faced by families, can join our programs. Supported by significant funding from municipal, provincial, and federally awarded contracts, we offer programs at little to no cost to families.
Additional Programs include our Schools Out Program that is for PD Days and Seasonal Breaks at great rates, and subsidy is available through inhouse fundraising, donations, and sponsorships to ensure inclusivity and that these can be offered to all youth.
Educational Impact and Statistics: Research shows that youth centers foster a sense of belonging, leading to positive self-identity and increased resilience. Learning these at a young age promotes accountability and self-awareness that assists youth into adulthood with emphasis on how to make judgement calls and proper communication skills. Statistics from the National Collaboration for Youth underline that adolescents involved in youth centers are 55% more likely to enroll in college or pursue post-secondary education, emphasizing the instrumental role these centers play in enhancing educational outcomes.
We hope that in conjunction with our programs, and speakers we assist greatly in making impacts with the youths.
Program Highlights and Youth Development: At Cool Aid Society, our programs extend beyond recreation, addressing critical aspects of youth development, awareness, and emphasis on mental health initiatives and correlation. According to the National Youth Leadership Council, our targeted engagement results in a 27% increase in self-esteem and a 22% improvement in academic performance among participating youth.
Community Impact and Inclusivity: The importance of a youth center transcends the individual, benefiting the community at large. Our commitment to inclusivity ensures that every youth, regardless of background or socio-economic status, can benefit from our programs. We actively seek community engagement, welcoming volunteers and donations to sustain and enhance our initiatives.
Mission and Holistic Development: Our mission extends beyond programming, emphasizing strategies, care, and meaningful relationships. Our innovative programs focus on exploration and decision-making skills, contributing to Youth Mental Health Awareness. From mental health to body positivity, friendship, mentorship, and community connection, our diverse, engaging, and interactive programs strive for a well-rounded and inclusive space. Our no-cost afterschool and evening care programs cater to youth aged 5 to 18, with special programs for Pre-Teens (Tweens) and Teens.
Open Invitation: We encourage youth and families to participate, highlighting our commitment to inclusivity. Our Centre fosters a safe haven for all youth in the Grande Prairie region.
Community engagement is crucial, and we invite you to join us in making a lasting impact on the lives of the youth we serve and enhancing our community.